Seplat Energy Plc has announced a major leadership transition that will see renowned investor and business leader Tony Elumelu assume…
Seplat Energy Plc has announced a major leadership transition that will see renowned investor and business leader Tony Elumelu assume the role of Chairman from January 1, 2027, while veteran oil and gas executive Effiong Okon takes over as Chief Executive Officer from August 1, 2026.
The changes, unveiled by the company on Tuesday, form part of a carefully structured succession plan designed to ensure continuity in governance, leadership and execution of Seplat Energy’s long-term growth strategy as it advances its Roadmap 2030 agenda.
The company disclosed that its current Chief Executive Officer, Roger Brown, will retire on July 31, 2026, after 13 years with the company, including six years as CEO.
Brown’s departure marks the end of a transformative era during which Seplat evolved into one of Africa’s leading independent energy companies through a combination of strategic acquisitions, operational expansion and disciplined capital management.
Seplat also announced that its Chairman, Senator Udoma Udo Udoma, will retire from the board on December 31, 2026, paving the way for Elumelu to assume leadership of the board at the beginning of next year.
The appointment of Elumelu, Founder and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, signals a significant development for the indigenous energy company.
Heirs Holdings currently holds a 20.07 per cent stake in Seplat Energy, making it one of the company’s largest shareholders.
Elumelu is widely recognised as one of Africa’s most influential business leaders, with investments spanning energy, power, banking, insurance, technology, healthcare, hospitality and real estate.
His appointment comes as Seplat seeks to accelerate growth across its upstream and gas businesses while strengthening its position as a key player in Nigeria’s energy transition agenda.
Commenting on his appointment, Elumelu said he was honoured to succeed Udoma and lead the board through the company’s next phase of growth.
“I firmly believe in the critical role indigenous resources play in the economic transformation of Nigeria and Africa, and Seplat Energy’s culture of execution and governance aligns strongly with my own values,” he said.
He added that he looked forward to building on the achievements of the current leadership while delivering greater value to shareholders and other stakeholders.
The company said Okon’s appointment as CEO reflects its commitment to maintaining operational excellence and strategic continuity.
With more than 35 years of industry experience, Okon is regarded as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished energy executives.
