Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc has reaffirmed its position as a leading catalyst for intellectual growth in the financial services sector with the successful hosting of its 13th Annual Essay Competition Awards Ceremony.
The event, which has become a cornerstone of the Nigerian insurance industry’s professional development calendar, brought together top-tier regulators, industry veterans, and academia to honour young researchers and emerging professionals.
This was contained in a statement issued by the firm on Wednesday.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc, Eddie Efekoha, during his keynote address, said, “Ours is a knowledge-driven industry, and we must continue to champion initiatives that promote research and innovation. We are open to partnerships that will elevate this programme even further.”
The competition, widely recognised as the longest-running of its kind in the sector, awarded a grand prize of N1m to the overall champions in both the internal and external categories.
In the highly competitive external category, Favour Agoha of Imo State University emerged as the national champion.
Other top honours were claimed by students from the University of Jos and Federal Polytechnic Offa, highlighting the national reach of the initiative.
Expressing her appreciation, Agoha noted that the platform provides more than just financial rewards.
“On behalf of myself and every participant, I sincerely thank you for your unwavering commitment to encouraging excellence, talent, and healthy competition. Your support transcends mere sponsorship; it fuels personal growth, builds confidence, and opens doors for young individuals like me to shine,” she said.
The ceremony also received high praise from the leadership of the industry’s professional bodies. The President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, Yetunde Ilori, lauded the Group’s consistency in manpower development.
“I have watched this Essay Awards ceremony grow from its early days to its current national stature, and I wholeheartedly congratulate you. This initiative perfectly aligns with my agenda and the core mission of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria, the development of manpower,” Ilori remarked.
Similarly, the Chairman of the Nigerian Insurers Association, Kunle Ahmed, described the 13-year streak as a testament to the company’s vision.
“This is a very commendable initiative that strongly aligns with the NIA’s objectives. I congratulate Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc on its unwavering commitment to supporting Nigerian students and nurturing young talent. It is particularly noteworthy that this remains the longest-running essay competition in the Nigerian insurance industry, a true testament to sustained dedication and vision,” Ahmed added.
The internal category, designed to sharpen the analytical skills of the Group’s own workforce, saw Thompson Omons emerge as the winner. He emphasised that the recognition acts as a catalyst for professional excellence.
“Winning first place in the internal category affirms that my efforts are valued. It also motivates me to redouble my commitment; not just to this award, but to excellence in everything I do,” Omons stated.
Listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group in November 2023, Consolidated Hallmark Holdings Plc continues to evolve as a diversified financial powerhouse. Through this annual intellectual challenge, the Group aims to equip the next generation of leaders with the research tools necessary to navigate the shifting risks and technological disruptions currently defining the global insurance landscape.
