Seplat Energy Plc has clinched the coveted ‘M&A Deal of the Year’ award at the Nairametrics Capital Market Choice Awards, held over the weekend in Lagos.

The award recognized Seplat’s successful acquisition of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU) from ExxonMobil—a move that has significantly boosted the company’s production capacity and reserves.

The high-profile event, themed “Capital Market as a Catalyst for Nigeria’s Economic Transformation,” brought together key players from the banking, energy, insurance, and manufacturing sectors listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

In December 2024, Seplat completed the acquisition of MPNU, now renamed Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited (SEPNU).

The transaction added key assets including equity in 11 blocks, 48 producing fields, five gas processing plants, and three export terminals—positioning Seplat as Nigeria’s leading independent energy company.

Speaking at the event, Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs & Social Performance at Seplat, said:“The MPNU deal represents hard work, resilience and a strong commitment to Nigeria’s future. We’re grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the various Ministries, and regulators who made this possible.”

Ugo Obi-Chukwu, Founder and Chief Analyst at Nairametrics, noted:“The awards are our way of celebrating organizations that have significantly shaped Nigeria’s capital market and promoted financial excellence.”

With the MPNU acquisition, approximately 1,000 staff and 500 contractors have now transitioned to Seplat, expanding the company’s operational footprint and long-term impact on the energy sector.

Afe added: “We will continue to deliver value to all stakeholders while nurturing strong relationships with government, communities, and our workforce.”The award underscores Seplat’s role in driving growth, energy security, and economic diversification in Nigeria.