csrreporters 
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s insurance and pension industries are set to deepen youth inclusion and empowerment at the 2026 Business Today Annual Conference and Exhibition, scheduled for April 2.
According to the organisers, the conference is themed “Youth Advantage: Redefining Insurance and Pensions for a New Era,” reflecting a growing commitment to integrating young people into financial protection systems as part of broader corporate social responsibility efforts.
The event comes at a critical time, as both the insurance and pension sectors undergo recapitalisation and structural reforms aimed at improving sustainability and public confidence. Organisers said the conference will serve as a platform to educate, engage, and empower young Nigerians on the importance of early financial planning and protection.
Convener of the conference, Mrs Nkechi Naeche Esezobor, explained that a dedicated youth dialogue session will simplify insurance reforms and promote awareness around pension participation. Key discussions will include sub-themes such as “Start Young, Retire Strong: The PPP Advantage,” aimed at encouraging responsible long-term financial habits.
Top regulators, including the Commissioner for Insurance, Mr Olusegun Omosehin, and the Director-General of the National Pension Commission, Ms Omolola Oloworaran, are expected to lead conversations on how youths can drive innovation, inclusion, and sustainability across the sectors.
Industry leaders from insurance, pensions, capital markets, and technology will also share insights on developing flexible, affordable, and technology driven products tailored to Nigeria’s youth, freelancers, and participants in the growing gig economy.
Naeche-Esezobor noted that placing young people at the centre of reforms will help close existing protection gaps and strengthen Nigeria’s financial safety net. She added that modernising insurance and pension products to reflect today’s digital and entrepreneurial realities is key to long-term economic resilience.
The conference is expected to host over 20 speakers and more than 500 participants, including professionals, students, entrepreneurs, content creators, and representatives from financial institutions, technology firms, and educational institutions underscoring its strong CSR focus on financial literacy, youth development, and inclusive growth.
The organisers also noted that the conference aligns with broader national goals of financial inclusion and youth empowerment by bridging the knowledge gap that has limited young people’s participation in insurance and pension schemes. Through practical sessions, case studies, and interactive engagements, participants will gain a clearer understanding of how financial protection supports economic stability, entrepreneurship, and long-term wealth creation.
In addition, the conference will encourage collaboration between regulators, private sector operators, and educational institutions to develop youth friendly policies and products. By fostering dialogue and mentorship, the initiative aims to inspire confidence among young Nigerians to actively participate in shaping the future of the insurance and pension industries, while reinforcing the sectors’ commitment to responsible and inclusive growth.