By Favour Pius
Nigeria has urged member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address the widening digital gap hindering cross-border motor insurance operations, warning that weak technology infrastructure continues to delay claims settlement and undermine regional integration.
The call was made at just concluded the inaugural 2026 zonal meeting of the ECOWAS Brown Card Scheme, where stakeholders pressed for coordinated digital reforms to improve efficiency, transparency and speed in processing cross-border claims.
Speaking at the forum, Commissioner for Insurance, Olusegun Omosehin, said urgency reflects broader changes across the region’s insurance landscape.
“This meeting comes at a critical time for the West African insurance industry, as we respond to regulatory reforms, technological change, and the growing demand for deeper regional integration, “he said, urging compliance with operational standards and prompt settlement of valid claims.
Chairman of the Council of Bureaux, Habib Dia, warned that uneven digital capacity across member states could undermine the scheme.
“A system is only as strong as its weakest link,” Dia said, calling for aligned data systems, stronger cybersecurity and sustained investment in digital infrastructure.
On the sidelines, Secretary General of the scheme, Winfred Kwasi Dodzih, said Nigeria’s renewed engagement would boost regional trade, cooperation, and employment, especially as operations shift from paper-based processes to digital platforms.
Chairman of the Nigerian National Bureau, Lucas Durojaiye, added that the scheme is entering a new phase requiring inclusive and interoperable digital systems across all member states.
The ECOWAS Brown Card Scheme provides third-party insurance coverage for victims of road accidents involving foreign motorists and remains a key instrument supporting free movement within the region.
Participants agreed that bridging the digital divide is critical to faster claims settlement, improved transparency, and stronger trust among ECOWAS countries.
They also expected to outline a roadmap for bridging the digital divide, accelerating claims settlement, and restoring confidence in the regional insurance framework, an outcome analysts say is crucial to deepening economic integration and unlocking the full benefits of intra-African trade.
