Royal Exchange’s on-going turnaround is gaining traction, underpinned by improving revenue, tighter cost discipline, and a renewed focus on asset management, factors that continue to drive performance despite a challenging macroeconomic environment.
A key highlight of the Group’s 2025 financial performance, presented at its 57th Annual General Meeting held virtually shows a 5 percent rise in earned income to N1.7 billion from N1.57 billion in 2024, while the year closed with a profit after tax of N851 million.
Ikeme Osakwe, chairman of the Board attributed the improved performance to the successful execution of a three-year transformation strategy that culminated in 2024, aimed at repositioning the Group into an asset management-focused entity.
He emphasised that the company’s repositioning is already yielding results, particularly through increased investment income, stronger performance from investee companies, and a more diversified, resilient portfolio.
He described the 2025 outcome as evidence of “strong fundamentals and a successful turnaround strategy,” positioning the Group for sustained growth.
Speaking to journalists after the AGM, Osakwe said: “Royal Exchange remains a strong legacy brand, but I want it to be more than that. The goal of this Board is to make us one of the most agile and reliable partners for our clients. We are not just focused on the next quarter; we are building a culture of transparency and smart risk-taking that creates real, lasting value.
“For me, it is about focusing on solid, dependable growth and service that sustainably delivers for our shareholders as well as the broader economy.”
On the company’s growth trajectory, he added: “Growth is only as good as its foundation. That foundation—the Group structure—has been laid, and the results are becoming evident. To sustain the momentum, this structure will take us beyond traditional insurance into products that address today’s unique market challenges.
“We will continue to invest in our people to lead that charge, while also seeking partnerships that bring us closer to the customer. My focus is to ensure that as we scale, we do so profitably and in a way that sustains stakeholder trust over the long term.”
Looking ahead, Osakwe said the company is positioning for a more technology-driven future. “Over the next five years, Royal Exchange is expected to evolve into a stronger, more technology-driven and diversified services group.
“Five years from now, I see Royal Exchange as a modern, tech-forward financial services group in Nigeria. We will not just be a household name because of our history, but because we have leveraged data and digital tools to enhance our offerings and make insurance more seamless and accessible.
“For us, success will be measured not just by growth, but by reliability. We are building a future where earnings are consistent, capital is strong, and stakeholders are continually delighted.”