Pastor Jerry Eze appointed Heirs Life Assurance independent director

Pastor Jerry Eze, Founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, has been appointed an Independent Non-Executive Director of Heirs Life Assurance, the life insurance subsidiary of Heirs Insurance Group.

The appointment took effect on Monday, August 10, 2026, according to a statement issued by the company and made available to journalists.

Heirs Life Assurance said Eze’s appointment is part of efforts to deepen financial inclusion, strengthen public confidence in insurance and increase insurance adoption across Nigeria.

The company noted that insurance penetration in Nigeria remains below one per cent, despite the size of the country’s economy, stressing the need to expand access to financial protection and improve public understanding of insurance.

According to the insurer, Eze’s extensive experience in community engagement, leadership and humanitarian initiatives would bring a valuable perspective to the board as it works to make insurance more accessible and relevant to Nigerians.

He also leads the Jerry Eze Foundation, through which he has supported vulnerable individuals and communities with housing assistance and grants. In 2026, he announced a N1 billion grant initiative targeted at young entrepreneurs in agriculture, technology and manufacturing.

Heirs Life further highlighted Eze’s professional background before he entered full-time ministry. He worked in development communications, including as a Communications Specialist on a World Bank HIV/AIDS programme and with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

He holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and International Relations from Abia State University and a postgraduate degree in Business Administration from Enugu State University of Science and Technology.

Commenting on the appointment, Chairman of Heirs Life Assurance, Tony Elumelu, described Eze as a leader with integrity, influence and a strong understanding of communities.

Elumelu said Eze’s contribution would support the company’s efforts to improve consumer trust, promote financial inclusion and strengthen its commitment to protecting the financial future of Nigerians.

He said, “Pastor Jerry brings an exceptional combination of integrity, influence, and a deep understanding of people and communities.

“As we continue our mission to democratise access to insurance, his insight will help strengthen consumer trust, deepen financial inclusion, and reinforce our commitment to protecting the financial future of millions of Nigerians.

“We are delighted to welcome him to the Board of Heirs Life Assurance and the broader family of Heirs Insurance Group.”

Reacting to his appointment, Eze said he was honoured to join the board at an important period for Nigeria’s insurance industry.

He said financial security gives individuals, families and businesses greater confidence to pursue their goals and withstand economic challenges.

Eze added that he looked forward to working with the board and management to advance Heirs Life Assurance’s mission of making insurance more accessible, relevant and impactful to Nigerians.

“I am honoured to join the Board of Heirs Life Assurance at a defining moment for the insurance industry.

“Financial security empowers individuals, families, and businesses to pursue their aspirations with greater confidence and resilience.

“I look forward to working with the Board and Management to advance the company’s mission of making insurance more accessible, relevant, and impactful for every Nigerian,” he said.

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