Pastor Jerry Eze. Photo: Heirs Life Assurance

Heirs Life Assurance, the specialist life insurance company of Heirs Insurance Group, has announced the appointment of  Pastor Jerry Eze, the Founder and Lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International Ministry, as an Independent Non-Executive Director on its Board, effective Monday, August 10, 2026.

The appointment, according to a statement dated August 10, 2026, by the company’s management and made available to PUNCH Online on Monday, “reinforces Heirs Life Assurance’s commitment to expanding financial inclusion and accelerating insurance adoption by strengthening public trust, consumer education, and long-term financial resilience across Nigeria.”

The statement added, “Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria’s insurance penetration remains below one per cent – among the lowest globally – highlighting the need to expand financial protection and build greater public trust in insurance.

“As Heirs Life continues to pursue its mission of making insurance accessible to every Nigerian, Eze’s appointment brings a unique perspective on community engagement, value-based leadership, and broad societal impact.

“He is also the convener of the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declaration (NSPPD), one of the world’s largest digital prayer platforms, reaching millions of people daily. Through his ministry and humanitarian initiatives, he has become one of Africa’s most influential voices, championing hope, compassion, and community transformation.

“Beyond ministry, Eze is the Founder of the Jerry Eze Foundation, a faith-led philanthropy where he provides housing support and grants to vulnerable and underserved communities.  In 2026, he announced N1billion in grants to support young entrepreneurs across agriculture, technology, and manufacturing, further advancing enterprise development and economic opportunity.

“Before entering full-time ministry, Pastor Jerry Eze built a career in development communications, serving 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 about Jerry’s appointment, Chairman, Heirs Life Assurance, Tony Elumelu, said, “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.

“We are delighted to welcome him to the Board of Heirs Life Assurance and the broader family of Heirs Insurance Group.”

Reacting to his appointment, Eze was quoted as saying, “I am honoured to join the Board of Heirs Life Assurance at a defining moment 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.”