border barriers that impede resource mobility, to foster healthy competition among member states, and to encourage information and knowledge sharing throughout the continent, in addition to other goals that will help insurance businesses flourish in African markets. According to Thomas, the commission has received increased backing from the Nigerian government and that this is the first time a Nigerian President or Head of State would personally attend any insurance-related event in Nigeria.
The commissioner expressed hopes over developing the insurance industry. He said, “The founding fathers of the AIO had a very thoughtful foresight by making sure we have this forum that has over these years had achieved tremendous success in harmonising the African insurance markets and bringing together experts of different insurance faculties yearly to discuss burning issues affecting the continent and the rest of the world. I believe the outcome of all our deliberations in the last few days will go a long way in helping us thrive higher in achieving our goals and objectives”.
The Commissioner congratulated Smart over his appointment. He also addressed the current situation of the pandemic-impacted insurance industry and economy of Africa. He said: “I want to say to the incoming President that the journey ahead may not be all smooth, especially due to the aftermath of the COVID19 pandemic and the shapes of our economies across Africa presently. There is a huge task ahead of you and your team, but working with you over the years gives me high confidence that you are equal to the task and I can vouch for your hard work, resilience, foresight and determination.
