Leaders Under 40: Tobi Osanaiye

Why mentorship, technical depth and climate resilience are shaping the future of this young leader in African insurance.

How did you get to where you are today?

I began in the Nigerian insurance market with Law Union & Rock Insurance and Prestige Assurance, developing strong foundations in client engagement and market development. I am a re/insurance professional with over a decade of experience across underwriting support, business development and strategic leadership in Africa’s financial risk ecosystem. 

Currently, I serve as assistant manager at FBS Reinsurance Ltd, engaging with cedants across regional markets. Alongside my professional role, I am the founder of the African Association of Young Insurance Professionals (YIPs Africa), leading continent-wide initiatives focused on capacity building, sustainable insurance, climate risk awareness and youth leadership development.

I hold a PhD in economics, an MSc in international business, a BSc in insurance and economics, and an MBA in marketing management.

What first drew you into insurance?

My career was inspired by a strong interest in how financial systems can protect people and economies from uncertainty. Growing up in an environment where unexpected losses often had severe economic consequences, I became interested in insurance as a mechanism for resilience rather than just compensation. Over time, this evolved into a focus on how insurance and reinsurance can support economic development and climate resilience, particularly in emerging markets.

What do you enjoy most about your job, and why?

I enjoy the strategic nature of re/insurance: understanding complex risks, structuring solutions and balancing technical, financial and human considerations. The industry sits at the intersection of data, judgement and long-term thinking, which I find intellectually rewarding. I also find fulfilment in mentorship, guiding future leaders and building institutions that strengthen professionalism, innovation and sustainability within the insurance ecosystem.

What challenge has shaped you the most?

One of the most defining challenges in my career was transitioning from direct insurance into the reinsurance space. The shift required a more technical, globally-oriented approach and the ability to manage complex portfolios. I addressed this by investing heavily in professional development, seeking mentorship and deliberately engaging with technically demanding work, which reshaped my perspective on risk and strengthened my confidence.

What are you aiming for next in your career?

My ambition is to become a senior leader and recognised thought contributor within re/insurance, with a focus on climate risk, sustainable finance and emerging market resilience. I aim to achieve this through continuous learning, applied research, international exposure and leadership roles that bridge practice and policy. Building strong institutions to develop talent and influence policy across Africa is equally important.

 “Leading and mentoring others keeps me grounded and motivated.”

How do you stay motivated and keep learning in such a fast-moving market?

I stay motivated by purpose and curiosity. The insurance industry is evolving rapidly due to climate change, technological advancement and regulatory reform, which makes continuous learning essential. Leading and mentoring others keeps me grounded and motivated. Through YIPs Africa, I am constantly exposed to new perspectives and ideas, which reinforces my commitment to learning, innovation and contributing meaningfully to the future of the industry.

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