Meet Halima Kyari, the first woman to head NAICOM
Story by Aisha AUYO, Abuja
Born into the legacy of a distinguished leader, former military Governor of Kaduna state, Halima Kyari emerges as a beacon of grace and resilience, embodying the proud heritage of her father, Late Brigadier Abba Kyari.
Hailing from Borno State, their Kanuri lineage weaves a narrative of strength and honor that transcends generations.
In a significant move aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s insurance industry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 19th April 2024 appointed Hajiya Halima Kyari to assume the pivotal role of Chairman of the Board of Directors at the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM).
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Her educational foundation, laid at Kaduna Capital School and nurtured through Shehu Garbai Primary School and Government Girls Secondary School in Kawo, Kaduna, provided the bedrock for her future endeavors.
After completing her A-level studies at Château Beau-Cèdre in Montreux, Switzerland, Kyari embarked on a remarkable academic journey. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Southern Indiana, USA, before further enriching her knowledge with a Master of Business Administration from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
Halima Kyari, about her educational achievements, comes highly experienced as a round hole in a round peg, capable of taking on the responsibilities thrust on her by Mr. President and vindicating his trust and confidence in her abilities.
With a career spanning over three decades in the financial sector, Kyari brings a wealth of experience and a strategic vision poised to reshape the industry. Kyari’s professional trajectory is adorned with achievements across top-tier banks in Nigeria, including Access Bank, Union Bank, and First Bank of Nigeria. At Union Bank, she distinguished herself as Chief Dealer of the Treasury, showcasing her prowess in financial management. Later, at Access Bank, Kyari’s leadership as Group Head of Private Banking and her role in the Executive Office underscored her strategic acumen and ability to drive transformative change.
Currently, Halima serves on the board of directors for Vetiva Capital Management and Craneburg Construction Company Limited. She is also an Honorary senior member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, and a member of the Money Market Association of Nigeria.
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Kyari’s journey to this esteemed position is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to innovation. Beyond her corporate roles, Kyari’s commitment to the industry is reflected in her board positions at Craneburg Construction Company Limited and Vetiva. As an Honorary Senior Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers and a member of the Money Market Association of Nigeria, she remains deeply engaged in shaping the financial landscape.
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Kyari’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the Nigerian insurance industry, which faces challenges ranging from cultural perceptions to regulatory gaps. In assuming her new role, she articulates a vision of transformational leadership aimed at revitalizing the sector.
Kyari’s mandate is clear: to institute reforms, enhance regulatory oversight, and foster growth and innovation within the insurance domain.
In her own words, Kyari expresses her dedication to driving positive change within NAICOM and the wider industry. Her transformative leadership style, coupled with her unwavering commitment to the public interest, positions her as a catalyst for progress.
As she takes the helm at NAICOM, Kyari stands as a beacon of inspiration—a testament to the power of perseverance, excellence, and visionary leadership. With Halima Kyari at the helm, Nigeria’s insurance sector embarks on a new era—one defined by innovation, growth, and enduring impact.
