The group of leaders newly appointed to steer affairs at the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PENOP) has been described as putting round pegs in round holes.

This is contained in a statement by Caroline Lucas, Director Special Projects of the United Kingdom based leadership development organisation TEXEM UK, on its website www.texem.co.uk.

“In Nigeria’s pension landscape, where pedigree and reliability are the cornerstones, recent leadership appointments within the Pension Fund Operators Association of Nigeria (PENOP) have the potential to mark the dawn of a new era,” Lucas said.

Among the new leaders are Mr Umar Mairami, the Managing Director/CEO of Premium Pension Ltd., who is now PENOP President.

Mr Godson Ukpevo of Veritas Glanvills Pensions Limited, is re-elected as the Head of the Legal Committee.

Mr Peters Eledu of Zenith Pensions Custodians Limited is the new association’s Treasurer.

Mr Donald Onuoha, MD/CEO of Fidelity Pension Managers Limited, is the PENOP head of Media, branding, and communication.

Joy Ojokovo, General Manager, Progress Trust Closed Pension Fund Administrator is re-elected Vice President.

Lucas said the appointments signified not just individual achievements but a steadfast dedication to uplifting Nigeria’s insurance industry standards amid dynamic challenges.

She said the commitment of the PENOP executives to continuous learning was exemplified by their active participation in TEXEM UK’s programmes, and it underscored their pursuit of personal and professional growth.

“Mr Mairami’s presidency promises to infuse fresh energy and new insights into PENOP’s growth agenda, leveraging his proven expertise to propel the association to unparalleled prominence and sustainability.

“With a distinguished educational background and membership in professional bodies, Mairami embodies the leadership calibre needed to propel PENOP and Nigeria’s pension industry to new levels of success and resilience.

“His participation in TEXEM’s executive development programmes further underscores his commitment to staying abreast of modern governance practices,” Lucas said.

She said Mairami’s visionary direction promises to align PENOP’s mission with national development goals.

Lucas added that it would also channel pension funds into projects that contribute to economic growth, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs.

“Mr Mairami’s elevation to the presidency highlights his proactive mindset and strategic foresight, which are essential for steering PENOP to new heights.

“His tenure at Premium Pensions Limited has been marked by remarkable milestones, including exponential growth in Assets under Management (AuM)

“He also nurtured a growth mindset, apart from attaining two International Standards Organisation (ISO) certifications,” she said.

Lucas said the President is a TEXEM alumnus, as he attended TEXEM’s executive development programme on effective governance in a digital age for sustainable outcomes in the pension industry in 2019.

TEXEM’s founder, Dr Alim Abubakre, also spoke on the new appointments.

”In the strategic leadership journey, we honour those who tirelessly pursue knowledge, uphold integrity, and champion progress.

“Congratulations to the distinguished executives of PENOP, whose commitment to continuous learning and excellence serves as a beacon of inspiration.

“As you embark on this transformative journey, may your vision illuminate pathways to prosperity and your actions shape a future of inclusivity and resilience for Nigeria’s pension sector,” Abubakre said.

He said that vibrant and strategic leadership within PENOP was instrumental in driving sustainable growth, fostering social impact, and advancing the development agenda of Nigeria’s pension sector.

Abubakre said by aligning with national priorities, engaging stakeholders, embracing innovation, and upholding ethical standards, PENOP could significantly contribute to nation-building efforts and promote inclusive socioeconomic development.