Heirs Life Assurance, a specialist life insurance company under Heirs Insurance Group, has appointed Pastor Jerry Eze as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board, effective August 10, 2026.
The company said the appointment was part of its efforts to strengthen public trust, promote consumer education and expand insurance access and financial protection in Nigeria.
Nigeria’s insurance penetration remains below one per cent, according to industry estimates, highlighting the need to increase awareness and adoption of insurance products.
Eze, the Founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, is also the convener of the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations (NSPPD), a digital prayer platform with a large following in Nigeria and beyond.
He is also the founder of the Jerry Eze Foundation, through which he provides housing support and grants to vulnerable and underserved communities.
In 2026, Eze announced N1 billion in grants for young entrepreneurs in agriculture, technology and manufacturing.
Before becoming a full-time minister, Eze worked in development communications, including as a Communications Specialist on a World Bank HIV/AIDS programme and 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.
Speaking on the appointment, Chairman of Heirs Life Assurance, Tony O. Elumelu, said Eze’s experience and understanding of communities would contribute to the company’s efforts to expand insurance coverage.
‘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.
He added, ‘We are delighted to welcome him to the Board of Heirs Life Assurance and the broader family of Heirs Insurance Group.’
Responding to his appointment, Eze said he was honoured to join the company’s board at a significant time for the insurance 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.
Heirs Life Assurance is one of the three insurance businesses of Heirs Holdings, alongside Heirs General Insurance and Heirs Insurance Brokers.
The company said its insurance group serves more than three million people directly and indirectly through its businesses.