Heirs Life Assurance, the specialist life insurance company of Heirs Insurance Group, has appointed Pastor Jerry Eze as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board, effective August 10, 2026.
The appointment, according to the company, is aimed at strengthening public trust, deepening consumer education, and accelerating insurance adoption across Nigeria.
Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s insurance penetration remains below 1 percent — among the lowest globally — a gap Heirs Life said it is working to close through accessibility, innovation, and trust-building.
Speaking on the appointment, Chairman of Heirs Life Assurance, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, said Eze brings a unique blend of integrity, influence and community engagement.
“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,” Elumelu said.
In his response, Pastor Jerry Eze said he was honoured to join the Board at a defining moment for the 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.
Eze is the Founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, with 34 branches across West Africa, Southern Africa, Europe and North America. He also convenes NSPPD – New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declaration*, one of the world’s largest digital prayer platforms, reaching millions daily.
Beyond ministry, he founded the Jerry Eze Foundation, which provides housing support and grants to vulnerable communities. In 2026, he announced ₦1 billion in grants for young entrepreneurs in agriculture, technology and manufacturing.
Before ministry, he worked as a Communications Specialist on a World Bank HIV/AIDS programme and with UNFPA. He holds a 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.
