British-based energy company, Savannah Energy PLC, has added two Nigerians — Uyi Akpata and Kehinde Ogunwumiju — to its Board of Directors as Independent Non-Executive Directors. The move is part of the firm’s wider governance reform and succession strategy.
The announcement, made on Thursday, also confirmed the exit of long-serving directors Stephen O’Brien and David Clarkson after eight years on the board. Both will continue to serve the company as consultants, ensuring a smooth transition.
Savannah’s Chairman, Joseph Noupoué, explained that the appointments align with the company’s efforts to strengthen its leadership and adapt to its evolving strategic direction. He commended the outgoing directors for their years of dedicated service, describing them as instrumental to the company’s success.
Welcoming the new appointees, Noupoué said Akpata and Ogunwumiju bring world-class experience in finance and law, which would be critical to Savannah’s next phase of growth in Africa’s energy sector.
O’Brien, who served as Vice Chairman, said he was proud of the company’s transformation into one of Africa’s leading energy players. Clarkson also expressed appreciation for his time on the board and confirmed that he would continue to support Savannah as a technical advisor.
Akpata, a chartered accountant with over 40 years of professional experience, previously held top positions at PwC, including Senior Partner for Nigeria and Regional Partner for West Africa. He will also head Savannah’s Audit Committee.
Ogunwumiju, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Managing Partner at Afe Babalola & Co., is recognized for his expertise in corporate law and governance.
The company also disclosed that it plans to release its delayed 2024 Annual Report and mid-2025 financial results during the week of October 13. Trading of Savannah Energy shares will remain suspended until the filings are published.
Savannah Energy operates across Africa, focusing on oil, gas, and renewable energy projects aimed at supporting sustainable growth on the continent.
