Nigeria must lead global energy security – Seplat CEO

Nigeria has a critical opportunity to position itself as a dependable global energy supplier amid shifting geopolitical landscapes and evolving energy markets, according to Effiong Okon, CEO of Seplat Energy Plc. Speaking at the 49th Nigerian Annual International Conference and Exhibition of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, Okon urged for greater collaboration, increased investment, and faster gas development.

Okon highlighted that global energy supply uncertainties, exacerbated by events like disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, underscore the importance of energy security. He stated that the world is actively seeking reliable producers capable of maintaining stable supplies during times of stress. "This is Nigeria’s moment to lead by improving uptime, securing routes, delivering more products to the market and deepening gas infrastructure," he asserted.

The Seplat CEO advocated for an "energy addition" approach to the energy transition, contrasting it with "energy subtraction." He stressed that Nigeria requires more electricity, natural gas, responsible oil production, and commercially viable renewable energy sources. Natural gas, in particular, is central to Nigeria's industrialization, capable of powering industries, fertilizer plants, data centers, and enabling cleaner cooking solutions.

Seplat Energy has demonstrated significant growth, with Okon reporting an average working interest production of 131,506 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2025, a 148% increase from the previous year. The company also restored 49 idle offshore wells, boosting gross production capacity by 48,600 barrels of oil equivalent per day. Seplat currently supplies approximately 30% of Nigeria's grid-connected gas for power generation through its facilities, and the company is confident in surpassing its 2025 performance in 2026.

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The world is asking who can deliver energy reliably when the system is stressed. This is Nigeria’s moment to lead by improving uptime, securing routes, delivering more products to the market and deepening gas infrastructure.