Chairman of FBS Reinsurance Limited, Mr. Bala Zakariya’u, has charged insurance journalists to uphold the highest ethical standards, stressing that journalism holds the power to make or mar individuals and institutions.
Zakariya’u gave the advice when members of the Nigerian Association of Insurance and Pension Editors (NAIPE) presented him with an Appreciation Award at the FBS Re office in Ikoyi, Lagos, in recognition of his longstanding support to the insurance industry and the media.
Commending journalists who have tirelessly covered the sector through both its highs and lows, Zakariya’u urged them to remain steadfast in integrity—especially in today’s fast-paced digital age where misinformation spreads rapidly.
“Journalism can make or mar a man. Be the one who uses journalism to make people,” he said. “In this digital environment, a single negative story can go viral and cause lasting damage. If I were a journalist, I wouldn’t sleep if I put someone through such stress.”
He expressed surprise and gratitude for the award, noting that he had only been doing what he considered his duty to the industry—unaware that journalists were keenly observing his contributions.
Zakariya’u reaffirmed his passion for the growth of the insurance sector and his commitment to supporting all stakeholders, including journalists who play a critical role in shaping public perception and industry advancement.
Presenting the award, NAIPE praised Zakariya’u’s distinguished career, leadership, and unwavering service across the insurance landscape—including his tenure as former President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) and his current role as Chairman of FBS Re.
With over 40 years of industry experience, Zakariya’u has served on the boards of more than 20 Nigerian and multinational organisations. A Fellow of multiple professional institutes, he is a chartered insurer, an alum of the Chartered Insurance Institute (UK), and holds an MBA.
His illustrious career includes senior management roles and a transformative 22-year journey at Niger Insurance Plc, where he became Managing Director in 1997 and later Board Chairman in 2006, before retiring in 2015.
The award, NAIPE said, honours not just his achievements but his enduring influence on the insurance industry and his unwavering belief in ethical journalism as a catalyst for progress.
