Motorists demand stronger enforcement for insurance claim settlements

Motorists across Nigeria have called on the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to apply the same level of enforcement and urgency used in third-party motor insurance compliance to ensure insurance companies settle claims promptly.

Many believe that such enforcement measures, if executed in collaboration with the police, would encourage more vehicle owners to embrace insurance policies.

Victor Ukong, an Abuja-based motorist, stressed the importance of ensuring insurance companies fulfill their obligations, particularly regarding third-party motor insurance claims.

“NAICOM must step up its game; they should not allow this to be business as usual. Any insurance company that fails to pay claims for third-party motor insurance should face penalties, with the police playing a role in enforcement,” Ukong asserted.

Mrs. Lydia Abe, a civil servant, expressed concerns over the reluctance of insurance firms to settle claims, noting that this has discouraged her from considering insurance policies.

She urged NAICOM to strengthen its regulatory oversight to guarantee that insurance companies honor their commitments, which would help rebuild trust and attract more policyholders.

Similarly, Glory Eke, a business owner and motorist, called on NAICOM and insurance companies to enhance public awareness efforts regarding third-party motor insurance policies to increase understanding and patronage.

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Commissioner for Insurance, NAICOM, Olusegun Omosehin, urged Nigerians to recognize the benefits of third-party motor insurance and reassured them that the commission remains committed to ensuring all valid claims are paid.

“We want to appeal to Nigerians to stay positive about the benefits of insurance and be assured that NAICOM is here to enforce claims payment. As Commissioner for Insurance, I give my word that the insurance sector is up and doing and ready to meet all expectations,” Omosehin declared.

To address grievances, Omosehin revealed that NAICOM has established a dedicated complaints desk to handle insurance claims disputes and ensure transparency in the sector.

On Thursday, NAICOM and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) formalized a partnership to enhance compliance with mandatory third-party vehicle insurance in Nigeria. This collaboration aims to boost road safety and ensure adequate protection for motorists and third parties by enforcing existing insurance regulations.

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At a joint press conference in Abuja, Omosehin emphasized that extensive discussions had been held to strengthen road safety measures and enforce compliance with compulsory third-party motor insurance policies.

He underscored that this partnership reflects the commitment of regulatory agencies to ensuring safer roads through stricter oversight and enforcement mechanisms.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Police commenced the nationwide enforcement of third-party motor insurance policies on February 1, 2025, following the directive of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

The enforcement initiative seeks to ensure widespread adherence to insurance regulations, providing financial protection for motorists and accident victims alike.