The management board of Seplat Energy Plc has appointed Tony Elumelu as a non-executive director at the energy firm following the resignation of Olivier Cleret De Langavant.
Elumelu, Nigerian Banker and foremost investor, joins Seplat Energy as a non-executive director effective 22 January 2026.
In a press release yesterday, Seplat Energy confirmed the appointment, reeling out Elumelu’s achievements that obviously prompted the firm’s decision.
” The board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Tony O Elumelu, CFR, as a Non-executive director on the board, effective 22 January 2026. Mr Elumelu is a distinguished African investor and philanthropist, globally recognised as one of the most prominent voices on Africa’s transformation agenda. ” The press release read in parts.
Elumelu, the chairman of Heirs holdings already has a significant investment in Seplat Energy. Heirs Energies, the energy arm of his holding company, is Seplat Energy PLC’s largest shareholder. Heirs Energy owns a landmark 20.07% stake in Seplat, valued at $496 million.
Business analysts speculate that Elumelu’s joining the board could stir the company towards Nigeria’s power sector, a sector the UBA boss has been eyeing for a while.
” We are confident that Mr Elumelu’s extensive experience and visionary leadership will significantly advance Seplat Energy’s strategic objectives and reinforce the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and long-term sucess” the press release added.
Elumelu’s Growing Portfolio
The official announcement of Tony Elumelu joining Seplat Energy as a non-executive director extends his business portfolio in Nigeria into the energy sector. Elumelu already has an extensive footprint in Nigeria’s banking, hospitality, and investment sectors, adding energy to the fray.
He is the chairman of the United Bank of Africa, a banking entity with a presence across Africa. He is also the largest shareholder at Transcorp Group, which owns Transcorp Hotels and Transcorp Energy.
On philanthropy, Tonu Elumelu founded the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), which has invested over $200 million in African startups since its inception.
Seplat Energy Co-founded by ABC Orjiakor and Austin Avuru, has a sizeable footprint in Imo State’s oil and gas industry.
