Universal Insurance Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to repositioning itself within Nigeria’s insurance industry by placing young professionals at the core of its strategic direction.
Speaking at the 2026 BusinessToday Annual Conference and Exhibition, the company’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Japhet Duru, stated that youth integration has become a key driver of the organisation’s recent transformation and performance.
According to Duru, the company has moved beyond policy statements by ensuring that approximately 40 per cent of its workforce comprises young professionals. He noted that this shift represents more than a demographic adjustment, describing it as central to redefining the company’s identity and operational approach.
He explained that younger employees are playing a pivotal role in advancing the firm’s technology-driven initiatives, helping to reposition the brand to better align with a modern and evolving customer base.
As part of this transformation, the company introduced “ShopInsure,” a digital-first insurance solution tailored to meet the needs of small business owners, reflecting its focus on innovation and accessibility.
Duru further disclosed that the organisation has established structured support systems to sustain this momentum, including initiatives aimed at talent development and retention. These include full sponsorship of professional certification programmes and other career advancement opportunities designed to strengthen capacity within its workforce.
The company’s youth-focused strategy underscores a broader effort to enhance competitiveness, drive innovation, and secure long-term growth in Nigeria’s evolving insurance landscape.
