Heirs Life Assurance, the specialist life insurance company of Heirs Insurance Group, has appointed Pastor Jerry Eze, founder and lead pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board.
The appointment took effect on Monday, August 10, 2026, according to a statement issued by the company’s management and made available to The Telegraph.
The company said the appointment reinforces its commitment to expanding financial inclusion and accelerating insurance adoption by strengthening public trust, consumer education and long-term financial resilience across Nigeria.
“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 statement said.
It added that as Heirs Life continues to pursue its mission of making insurance accessible to every Nigerian, Eze’s appointment would bring “a unique perspective on community engagement, value-based leadership, and broad societal impact.”
Eze is also the convener of New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations (NSPPD), one of the world’s largest digital prayer platforms, which reaches millions of people daily.
Through his ministry and humanitarian initiatives, he has emerged as an influential voice in Africa, championing hope, compassion and community transformation.
Beyond his pastoral work, Eze is the founder of the Jerry Eze Foundation, a faith-led philanthropic organisation that provides housing support and grants to vulnerable and underserved communities.
In 2026, he announced ₦1 billion in grants to support young entrepreneurs in agriculture, technology and manufacturing, with the initiative aimed at promoting enterprise development and expanding economic opportunities.
Before entering full-time ministry, Eze worked in development communications. He served as a Communications Specialist on a World Bank HIV/AIDS programme and also worked with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
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.
Commenting on the appointment, Chairman of Heirs Life Assurance, Tony Elumelu, said Eze 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.
“We are delighted to welcome him to the Board of Heirs Life Assurance and the broader family of Heirs Insurance Group.”
Eze, in his reaction, said he was honoured to join the board at a defining moment for the insurance industry.
“I am honoured to join the Board of Heirs Life Assurance at a defining moment for the insurance industry. Financial security empowers individuals, families, and businesses to pursue their aspirations with greater confidence and resilience,” he said.
“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.”
