Seplat Energy Plc has named businessman and investor Tony Elumelu as its next chairman in a major leadership transition.
The indigenous energy company announced this in a statement on Tuesday as it positions fitself or its next phase of growth.
In the statement signed by the company’s Director, Legal/Company Secretary, Edith Onwuchekwa, Seplat said the appointment takes effect from January 1, 2027.
Elumelu’s appointment follows the planned retirement of the current chairman, Udoma Udo Udoma, at the end of December 2026.
Seplat said the board had elected Elumelu to succeed Udoma as part of a broader succession plan designed to support the company’s long-term growth ambitions and execution of its 2030 strategic roadmap.
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Pinnacle Daily reported that Elumelu joined Seplat’s board in January 2026. He holds a 20.07 per cent stake in the energy company.
According to Seplat, the succession plan will provide continuity in governance and strategy as Seplat pursues growth projects across its portfolio.
Commenting on his appointment, Elumelu said, “I am honoured to succeed Senator Udoma as Chairman to lead the Board through Seplat Energy’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.”
“I thank Senator Udoma and Roger for their stewardship and look forward to delivering further value for shareholders. I also congratulate Mr Okon on his appointment as Chief Executive Officer. His deep industry experience gives me great confidence that Seplat Energy is well-positioned for its next chapter of growth.”
Pinnacle Daily reports that the announcement came alongside a leadership transition at the executive level, with Chief Executive Officer Roger Brown set to retire on July 31, 2026, after 13 years with the company.
Brown joined Seplat in 2013 as chief financial officer and later became chief executive officer in August 2020.
During his tenure, the company completed several major transactions, including the acquisition of Eland Oil and Gas in 2019 and Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited in 2024.
Also, the board appointed Effiong Okon as chief executive officer and executive director with effect from August 1, 2026.
Okon, who has more than 35 years of industry experience, has served in several leadership roles within Seplat since joining the company in 2018.
Praising Brown’s contribution to the company, Udoma said, “Roger has been ever-present in Seplat Energy’s journey and under his leadership, Seplat Energy has materially outperformed the sector and delivered exceptional returns to shareholders; he leaves us well-placed to continue to deliver for all our stakeholders.”
Alex is a business journalist cum data enthusiast with the Pinnacle Daily. He can be reached via ealex@thepinnacleng.com, @ehime_alex on X