Universal Insurance Plc has announced the appointment of Japhet Duru as its new Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, effective January 10, 2025.

In a statement filed by the Company Secretary, Chinedu Onyilimba, on the Nigeria Exchange Limited on Thursday, Duru, who joined the company last August as Executive Director, Technical Operations, has been serving as the acting MD/CEO since September 2024, following the departure of Benedict Ujoatuonu.

Duru shared his excitement about the new role, stating, “I am honoured by the trust placed in me by the Board of Universal Insurance. I look forward to steering the company towards greater heights while ensuring that we continue to meet the evolving needs of our clients and stakeholders.”

With over 30 years of industry experience, Duru has multiple advanced degrees, including a PhD in Business Administration and Finance. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria and has held leadership roles at top insurance firms.

Universal Insurance Plc Chairman, John Oke, welcomed Duru’s appointment, emphasising, “Dr. Duru’s wealth of experience and leadership skills will undoubtedly drive the company’s continued growth and success in the highly competitive insurance sector.”

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