Yetunde Ilori, CIIN

By Ngozi Onyeakusi—The incoming President of the Chartered Insurance Institute Nigeria (CIIN) Mr Yetunde Ilori has unveiled a four -point agenda tagged ‘EPIC’ which focuses on

Education, Professionalism, Institutional Recognition, and Capacity Building.

Briefing the media in Lagos in a parly Ilori said ‘ I have a deep-seated desire that gave birth to the theme of my tenure “Igniting the bedrock of our envisioned industry” and I believe with all of us working together the
desire can become a reality

 

Enjoy her full text of speech

 

THE THEME OF TENURE AND AGENDA OF THE 52ND PRESIDENT OF THE
CHARTERED INSURANCE INSTITUTE OF NIGERIA
I have a deep-seated desire that gave birth to the theme of my tenure “Igniting the
bedrock of our envisioned industry” and I believe with all of us working together the
desire can become a reality. We will focus on enhancing our educational programs,
fostering innovation, and promoting ethical practices in the Nigerian insurance
industry. We will also strengthen our collaborations with regulators, other
professional bodies and relevant stakeholders. Steps will also be taken at sustaining
success recorded by the previous presidents as well as completing previously initiated
projects.
The theme is expected to be actualized under the agenda summarized in a four-letter
acronym EPIC. EPIC as a word means awesome, spectacular, an exceptionally long
and arduous task (usually difficult). It can be said to be ambitious and artistic goal but
I am encouraged by this saying “So many of our dreams at first seem impossible, then
they seem improbable, and then, when we summon the will, they soon become
inevitable”. EPIC was chosen after taking a critical look at our industry, assessing
where we are and where we should be. This acronym encapsulates our commitment
to Education, Professionalism, Institutional Recognition, and Capacity Building
within and outside the insurance industry.
Evolving Education Through Technology (E-Education)
The world is undergoing a digital revolution, and the insurance industry is no
exception. There is a critical need to bridge the knowledge gap about insurance. We
must move beyond simple awareness campaigns and empower the public with real
education. Technology is our key to:
• Reaching New Audiences: We will leverage existing channels and institutions
to deliver insurance education outside the industry. Imagine insurance as a
core subject in secondary schools or a focus for training programs. This will
significantly enhance insurance literacy across the nation.
• Transforming Learning within the Industry: For our members, we will
embrace e-learning. Partnerships with established platforms will provide
convenient and engaging learning experiences. Imagine preparing for exams
with a whole new approach, one that is effective and enjoyable.
• Building Expertise through Partnerships: Executive training opportunities
will be a cornerstone of our initiative. By partnering with reputable institutions,
both local and international, we will offer certification programs that elevate
professional skills.

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• A Business School Model for Insurance: We will create a tiered training
program modelled after business schools. From entry-level to executive levels,
our Institute will become the premier destination for insurance education in
Nigeria.
Promoting the Highest Standards of Professionalism (P)
The ‘P’ in EPIC stands for professionalism, the bedrock of our Institute. We will focus
on:
• Discipline: Maintaining the highest ethical standards is paramount. We will
ensure strict adherence to our code of conduct. We embark on sensitisation,
where every professional will know the demands of the certificate he or she
holds.
• Enhancing the Institute’s Image: The CIIN will be synonymous with
excellence. We will actively promote the value we bring to the industry and
society at large.
• Making Insurance a Top Career Choice: We will strive to make the CIIN
qualification as prestigious as those offered by the other institutes. Our goal is
to make insurance the first-choice career path for talented individuals.
• Elevating the Fellowship Program: A rigorous review of the Fellowship
assessment process will ensure it continues to meet the highest global
standards.
• Upgrading Program Quality: We are committed to offering exceptional
educational programs that are continuously improved to meet the evolving
needs of the industry.
Building a Recognised Institution (I)
The ‘I’ in EPIC represents Institutional Recognition. We will:
• Establish a Credible Awards Program: The annual Insurance Week will be a
highlight of our calendar showcasing the talents and achievements of
institutions and individuals within our field. By instituting credible award-
giving events with well-defined criteria, we will celebrate excellence and
inspire others to strive for greatness.
Enhancing Capacity Through Targeted Initiatives (C)
The final pillar of EPIC is Capacity Building. We will focus on:
• Strengthening the CIIN Secretariat: We will address any capacity gaps within
the Institute itself, ensuring we have the resources to deliver on our ambitious
goals.
• Building Expertise in Niche Areas: Certain sectors, such as Marine and
Aviation insurance, require specialised knowledge. We will develop programs

 

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to address these needs, encompassing not just underwriting but also vital areas
like claims adjusting.
• Connecting the Diaspora: Nigerian Insurance professionals abroad possess
valuable knowledge. We will create avenues for them to share their expertise
with their colleagues at home.
• Investing in the Future: Scholarship programs will nurture talent from
colleges and universities. We will also establish a Chartered Insurance Analyst
(CIA) product to qualify exceptional individuals.
• Providing Internship Opportunities: Exposure to the realities of the
workplace is crucial. We will create internship programs to bridge the gap
between academics and practical experience.
The Road Ahead
EPIC is a bold vision, but I am confident that together, we can achieve remarkable
things. With your support and dedication, the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria will become a force for positive change in the industry. We will empower the
public, elevate professional standards, and ensure our Institute is recognised as a
beacon of excellence.

Mrs. Yetunde O. Ilori
52ND PRESIDENT/CHAIRMAN OF COUNCIL