Heirs Life Assurance has appointed Pastor Jerry Eze, founder and lead pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, as an Independent Non-Executive Director as the insurer intensifies efforts to expand insurance access and rebuild consumer confidence in Nigeria.
Heirs Life Assurance has appointed prominent cleric and entrepreneur Pastor Jerry Eze to its Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director, a move the insurer says will support its drive to deepen financial inclusion and increase insurance adoption across Nigeria.
The appointment took effect on Monday, August 10, 2026, according to a statement issued by the company.
Eze, who founded Streams of Joy International Ministry and convenes the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declaration platform, joins the board at a time when Nigeria’s insurance industry continues to grapple with low penetration and limited public confidence in insurance products.
Heirs Life Assurance, the specialist life insurance subsidiary of Heirs Insurance Group, said his appointment would strengthen its efforts around consumer education, public trust and long-term financial resilience.
“Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s insurance penetration remains below one per cent – among the lowest globally – highlighting the need to expand financial protection and build greater public trust in insurance,” the company stated.
According to the insurer, Eze brings experience in community engagement, value-based leadership and social impact that could help advance its objective of making insurance more accessible to Nigerians.
Why Heirs Life turned to Jerry Eze
Eze has built a significant public profile through his ministry, humanitarian activities and digital outreach. His NSPPD platform reportedly reaches millions of people daily, while his philanthropic activities have focused on supporting vulnerable communities.
He is also the founder of the Jerry Eze Foundation, which provides housing assistance and grants to underserved communities.
In 2026, Eze announced a N1bn grant programme aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs in sectors including agriculture, technology and manufacturing.
His background also extends beyond ministry. Before becoming a full-time pastor, Eze worked in development communications, including as a Communications Specialist on a World Bank HIV/AIDS programme and with the United Nations Population Fund.
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.
Elumelu explains board appointment
Chairman of Heirs Life Assurance, Tony Elumelu, said Eze’s understanding of communities and his influence could help the insurer address some of the barriers limiting insurance adoption.
“Pastor Jerry brings an exceptional combination of integrity, influence, and a deep understanding of people and communities,” Elumelu said.
He added that Eze’s insight would be valuable as Heirs Life seeks to “democratise access to insurance,” strengthen consumer trust and deepen financial inclusion.
“We are delighted to welcome him to the Board of Heirs Life Assurance and the broader family of Heirs Insurance Group,” Elumelu said.
Eze: Insurance can strengthen financial resilience
Eze described his appointment as an opportunity to contribute to the development of Nigeria’s insurance industry.
“I am honoured to join the Board of Heirs Life Assurance at a defining moment for the insurance industry,” he said.
According to him, financial security gives individuals, families and businesses greater confidence to pursue their aspirations while improving their ability to withstand financial shocks.
He said he looked forward to working with the board and management to make insurance “more accessible, relevant, and impactful for every Nigerian.”
The appointment comes as insurers in Nigeria increasingly seek new approaches to expand coverage beyond the relatively small segment of the population currently protected by formal insurance products.
For Heirs Life, bringing a high-profile community leader onto its board signals an attempt to connect insurance more closely with public trust, financial education and the everyday financial needs of Nigerians.
