Recapitalization, mergers, and acquisitions of the Nigerian insurance industry

Purpose – Recapitalization, mergers, and acquisitions are the most crucial issues confronting the Nigerian Insurance Industry (NII) in recent times. Yet information relating to these issues is rarely reported in print. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a survey aimed at understanding the challenges faced within the NII and the reactions of the insurance underwriters towards the recapitalization exercise in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach – Stratified sampling was applied in segregating listed insurance companies on the Nigeria Stock Exchange into top-, middle-, and lower-management cadres. Random sampling was then used in selecting samples of the insurance company's staff. A questionnaire containing both open-ended and closed-form questions was used as the instrument to collect the primary data. Questionnaire administration was combined with personal interviews and record viewing in gathering relevant facts for use. Fifty-four questionnaires were properly filled and returned from members of staff of the selected insurance companies. Chi-square statistical procedures revealed the true position of the issues raised in the hypotheses. Findings – Recapitalization has been enhancing the development of the insurance industry and mergers and acquisitions have remained viable options for companies to remain in business. Research limitations/implications – Limited financial and non-financial resources, as well as a reluctance to release information by insurance companies and other operators in the industry, prevented further investigation. Originality/value – The study serves as an information source for investors in the insurance industry.