Seplat Energy is one of Nigeria’s most prominent indigenous energy companies, known for its strategic operations in the oil and gas sector and a growing focus on sustainable energy. Established in 2009, the company has quickly become a major player in the country’s energy industry. It is listed on both the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE), making it the first Nigerian company to achieve a dual listing in April 2014.
Headquartered in Lagos, Seplat Energy was formed through a partnership between Shebah Petroleum Development Company Ltd and Platform Petroleum Joint Ventures Ltd. Its core operations include oil and natural gas exploration and production, with key assets located in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. These include Oil Mining Leases (OMLs) 4, 38, and 41, which are operated through a joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC Ltd). The company also operates other blocks such as OML 53 and OML 55.
Seplat Energy has positioned itself as a leader in both the upstream and midstream sectors. In the upstream sector, the company focuses on producing oil and natural gas. In the midstream space, Seplat has invested in critical gas infrastructure projects, including the Oben gas processing plant and the Assa North–Ohaji South (ANOH) gas development project. These facilities are vital to Nigeria’s goal of reducing gas flaring and increasing gas supply for power generation.
With the changing landscape of the global energy market, Seplat Energy has embraced a forward-looking strategy. In 2021, the company rebranded from Seplat Petroleum Development Company to Seplat Energy. This change marked a strategic shift towards a broader energy business with a focus on cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. The company aims to play a leading role in Nigeria’s energy transition by investing in gas, reducing emissions, and supporting low-carbon energy solutions.
Seplat’s leadership includes experienced professionals from Nigeria and around the world. Roger Brown currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer, having taken over from founding CEO Austin Avuru in 2020. The company’s board is chaired by Basil Omiyi and includes directors with expertise in finance, governance, engineering, and business strategy.
Over the years, Seplat Energy has shown strong commitment to corporate governance and transparency. It is regarded as one of Nigeria’s most well-managed indigenous oil companies. In addition to its operational excellence, Seplat is also known for its active corporate social responsibility programs. These include education initiatives such as the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, healthcare outreach through the Eye Can See project, and investments in community infrastructure and development.
The company recently made headlines with its plan to acquire ExxonMobil’s shallow water assets in Nigeria through its subsidiary, Seplat Energy Offshore Limited. This deal, if approved by regulatory authorities, would significantly expand Seplat’s offshore capabilities. However, the transaction has faced delays due to legal and governmental reviews.
Beyond its commercial operations, Seplat Energy is also contributing to professional development in various sectors. One of its recent initiatives includes a media entrepreneurship training programme that empowered 50 journalists across print, digital, and broadcast platforms. The training focused on business planning, leadership skills, and the use of digital tools. It was part of Seplat’s broader effort to support capacity building and innovation in Nigeria’s media industry.
Seplat continues to navigate the challenges of operating in the Niger Delta, including regulatory uncertainties, environmental risks, and community-related issues. Despite these challenges, the company remains focused on long-term growth, clean energy investment, and strengthening Nigeria’s energy security. Seplat Energy’s transition from a traditional oil producer to a diversified energy company reflects a wider trend in the global industry, where companies are seeking to balance profitability with sustainability.
