Seplat Energy Plc has announced a significant leadership succession plan that will see billionaire businessman Tony Elumelu assume the position of Chairman in 2027 as the company prepares for its next phase of growth and governance reforms. The company also confirmed that Chief Executive Officer Roger Brown will retire on July 31, 2026, ending a tenure marked by strategic acquisitions, operational expansion, and substantial growth across Africa’s energy sector.
According to Seplat, the leadership changes are designed to ensure continuity while accelerating the implementation of its long-term 2030 strategic roadmap. During Brown’s leadership, Seplat completed major acquisitions, including Eland Oil and Gas in 2019 and Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited in 2024, strengthening its position as one of Africa’s leading independent energy companies.
The company highlighted the experience of Effiong Okon, who joined Seplat in 2018 and has held several senior roles, including Managing Director of the ANOH Gas Processing Company, where he oversaw the project’s delivery to first gas in January 2026. Seplat also disclosed that current Chairman Udoma Udo Udoma will retire on December 31, 2026, after guiding the board through key milestones, including the integration of MPNU and the development of the company’s 2030 strategic plan.
In a major governance shift, the Board elected Tony Elumelu as incoming Chairman, effective January 1, 2027. The founder of Heirs Holdings and Chairman of UBA currently holds a 20.07 per cent stake in Seplat through Heirs Holdings. Reacting to his appointment, Elumelu expressed gratitude to the Board and reaffirmed his belief in the role of indigenous enterprises in driving economic transformation across Nigeria and Africa.
Incoming CEO Effiong Okon said his immediate priority would be executing Seplat’s 2030 roadmap while creating sustainable value for stakeholders and strengthening the company’s operations. Roger Brown described his time as CEO as a privilege, noting that Seplat has evolved into a benchmark for financial discipline, corporate governance, and shareholder value creation.
Udoma Udo Udoma also praised Brown’s leadership, describing him as instrumental in transforming Seplat into one of Africa’s leading independent energy companies. The Board said the succession plan reflects its commitment to stability, strategic continuity, and accelerated growth as the company positions itself for its next phase of expansion.
