The Managing Director of Rex Insurance, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu, has been recognised as one of Nigeria’s top 25 corporate leaders of the year. The recognition came at the 2025 edition of the BusinessDay Top 25 CEOs Awards, which was held on Thursday in Lagos.
The award ceremony, which brought together top executives, regulators, and industry experts, celebrated men and women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and impact in their organisations and across the Nigerian economy.
Mrs. Nwachukwu was honoured for her exceptional contributions to Rex Insurance, which she has guided through a major period of transformation and growth. The organisers noted that her leadership style has not only repositioned the company but has also set a new standard in the insurance sector.
Speaking on the recognition, Nwachukwu described the award as a reflection of teamwork and commitment. She said, “This recognition is a true reflection of the dedication and hard work of the entire Rex Insurance team. Together, we have built a solid foundation for continued innovation and success, and I am immensely proud of all that we have accomplished.”
Nwachukwu took over as Managing Director of Rex Insurance in January 2023 and has since spearheaded a series of bold reforms that have reshaped the insurer’s identity and operations. One of her first initiatives was a comprehensive rebranding exercise that repositioned Rex Insurance as a digital-first and customer-centric company.
Under her leadership, the company commissioned a new head office in Victoria Island, Lagos, in 2024, a move seen as both symbolic and strategic in placing Rex Insurance at the heart of Nigeria’s financial hub. The firm also launched innovative insurance products, including climate-based agricultural insurance schemes and inclusive retail policies designed to reach underserved communities.
The company, under her watch, has emphasised timely claims settlement, improved customer experience, and expanded market penetration. Industry observers say these reforms have strengthened Rex Insurance’s credibility and boosted confidence among policyholders.
In line with her vision for sustainable financial performance, Nwachukwu introduced the 2025 corporate theme, “Building Synergy and Growth.” The theme has been adopted across departments to align staff, management, and partners around the goal of synergy, innovation, and profitability.
The recognition also reflects the growing prominence of women leaders in Nigeria’s corporate world. In recent years, several female executives have emerged at the forefront of banking, insurance, energy, and technology sectors, bringing diversity and new perspectives to boardrooms.
Rex Insurance, which operates in a highly competitive industry, has recorded steady progress under Nwachukwu’s leadership. The firm highlighted its achievements in a statement, noting that her focus on customer-centricity, innovation, and sustainable growth has positioned the company for long-term relevance in the Nigerian insurance market.
Analysts believe that awards such as the BusinessDay Top 25 CEOs not only celebrate individual achievements but also inspire other corporate leaders to pursue reforms that drive business excellence. For Rex Insurance, the recognition adds to its brand reputation and may boost its appeal among both investors and customers.
The Nigerian insurance industry has faced multiple challenges in recent years, ranging from low penetration levels to public mistrust over delayed claims. Experts say companies like Rex Insurance, by adopting digital platforms, diversifying products, and ensuring prompt claims processing, can play a critical role in rebuilding confidence in the sector.
Nwachukwu’s recognition also signals the value of innovative leadership in an economy that is seeking to diversify beyond oil and gas. As insurers expand into new areas such as agriculture, health, and microinsurance, the role of visionary leaders becomes central to ensuring that insurance services reach more Nigerians and contribute to economic resilience.
With the award, Mrs. Ebelechukwu Nwachukwu joins a distinguished group of CEOs shaping Nigeria’s corporate future. Her journey reflects the importance of strong governance, innovation, and customer trust in driving growth in the financial services sector.