Seplat Energy Plc has named Nigerian investor and philanthropist Tony Elumelu as a non-executive director, with the appointment taking effect from January 22, 2026.

The board change follows the recent acquisition of a 20.07 percent equity stake in Seplat by Heirs Holdings Limited and Heirs Energies Limited. The stake was previously owned by Etablissements Maurel et Prom SA (M&P), a French energy company.
In a notice filed with the exchange and signed by company secretary Edith Onwuchekwa, Seplat confirmed that Olivier Cleret De Langavant has stepped down from its board.

Langavant had served as a director since January 2020, representing M&P. His resignation, the company said, is directly linked to the completion of the share sale.

Seplat commended Langavant for his contributions during his tenure, noting that his technical expertise and strategic guidance played a key role in supporting the company’s growth over the past six years.

Elumelu, who chairs Heirs Energies, is also the founder and chairman of Heirs Holdings, a diversified investment group with interests spanning energy, power, financial services, technology, real estate, hospitality, and healthcare. He additionally serves as chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group and Transcorp Group.

Beyond his corporate roles, Elumelu leads the Tony Elumelu Foundation, a pan-African philanthropy focused on empowering entrepreneurs across the continent. His international engagements include serving on global advisory councils linked to youth development and economic growth.

Commenting on the appointment, Seplat Energy chairman Udoma Udo Udoma said the company is confident that Elumelu’s experience will support its long-term strategy and sustainability goals.

He also expressed appreciation for Langavant’s service, describing his impact on the company as significant.
Udoma added that the board looks forward to leveraging Elumelu’s leadership and business experience to drive value creation and sustainable growth for shareholders and other stakeholders.