Prudential Zenith Life Signals Strategic Transformation with Appointment of New Board Chair and CEO

...‘Tokunboh Ishmael Named Board Chair; Funmilayo Abimbola Omo Appointed Managing Director/CEO

Prudential Zenith Life Insurance Limited (PZL) has announced the appointment of ‘Tokunboh Ishmael as Chair of its Board of Directors and Funmilayo Abimbola Omo as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. The leadership transition follows Prudential plc’s acquisition of the remaining 49% stake in PZL, underscoring the Group’s deepening commitment to Nigeria and its broader African growth strategy.

These leadership appointments reflect PZL’s renewed focus on strengthening its market position by delivering innovative, value-driven insurance solutions to clients. The move is set to catalyse the company’s next phase of growth and reinforces Prudential’s ambition to be the most trusted partner for generations present and future.

“We are delighted to welcome this exceptional leadership team at Prudential Zenith Life,” said Emmanuel Mokobi Aryee, CEO, Africa, Prudential. “The appointments of both ‘Tokunboh Ishmael as Board Chair and Funmilayo Abimbola Omo as Managing Director/CEO demonstrate our commitment to investing in top-tier talent to realise our ambitions in Africa. We are confident that their combined expertise and strategic vision will drive PZL to new heights, delivering impactful and tailored insurance solutions that protect lives and empower futures across Nigeria.”

‘Tokunboh Ishmael, the newly appointed Board Chair, is a renowned impact investor with more than two decades of experience in investment banking, private equity, and business development across Africa, Europe, and North America. As a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and member of the CFA Institute, she brings deep financial and strategic acumen to PZL’s governance.

Sharing her enthusiasm, Ms. Ishmael stated: “I am honoured to chair the Board of Prudential Zenith Life at this pivotal time. I look forward to working alongside the management team to provide strategic oversight and contribute to the company’s continued growth and success in the Nigerian market.”

Newly appointed Managing Director/CEO, Funmilayo Abimbola Omo, joins with an extensive background in insurance and financial services. Her strong track record in business transformation, customer-focused innovation, and operational excellence positions PZL for accelerated impact and expansion.

Expressing her perspective on her new role, Mrs. Omo stated: “I am privileged to lead Prudential Zenith Life at such a pivotal time. The company’s strong foundation, coupled with Prudential’s global strength and commitment to Africa, presents a unique opportunity to redefine the life insurance landscape in Nigeria. I am eager to collaborate with our talented team and valued partners to foster innovation, broaden our reach, and make life insurance more accessible and impactful for all Nigerians.”

With Prudential now holding full ownership of PZL and a robust leadership team in place, the company is poised to scale its offerings through global best practices, cutting-edge technology, and a strategic bancassurance alliance with Zenith Bank. This evolution supports Prudential’s mission to close the insurance protection gap across Africa and extend financial and health security to millions.