<\/p>\n
Savannah Energy Plc announces new Nigerian independent directors to strengthen governance as it delays its 2024 annual report and half-year results, signalling strategic shifts in its African operations.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Savannah Energy Plc, a British independent energy company focused on projects across Africa, has announced significant planned changes to its Board of Directors as part of an ongoing succession planning process designed to support the company\u2019s strategic growth and governance needs. The company confirmed the retirement of Sir Stephen O\u2019Brien and David Clarkson, both of whom have served on the Board for eight years and played key roles in strengthening its governance framework and operational oversight.<\/p>\n
Sir Stephen O\u2019Brien, who was Vice Chair and Non-Executive Director, reflected on his departure by expressing pride in the company\u2019s development since its inception 11 years ago. He highlighted Savannah\u2019s evolution into a leading African energy company active in both hydrocarbons and renewable sectors. O\u2019Brien stated that while stepping down from the Board, he will continue to support Savannah in a new political advisory capacity. Similarly, David Clarkson acknowledged his fruitful tenure since joining in 2017 and noted his intention to remain involved as a Technical Advisor to the Board, further assisting the company\u2019s pursuit of sustainable business growth across its portfolio.<\/p>\n
Looking ahead, Savannah Energy announced the appointments of two respected Nigerian professionals, Uyi Akpata and Kehinde Olamide Ogunwumiju, as Independent Non-Executive Directors. These appointments are seen as enhancing the Board\u2019s expertise in critical governance areas such as audit, finance, and legal affairs, aligning with Savannah\u2019s ambitions to expand its operational footprint in Africa.<\/p>\n
Uyi Akpata, a chartered accountant with over 40 years of experience, notably as a former Senior Partner at PwC Nigeria and Regional Senior Partner for West Africa, is expected to take on the role of Chair of the Audit Committee. His extensive background encompasses leadership positions within PwC\u2019s global and African oil and gas sectors, audit oversight for energy multinationals, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, and various high-growth enterprises. He also has governance roles across multiple Nigerian organisations and has recently founded Rusa Advisory, a consultancy specialising in governance and risk management.<\/p>\n
Kehinde Olamide Ogunwumiju, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Managing Partner at Afe Babalola & Co, brings impressive legal and arbitration credentials. He has a proven track record representing major clients including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and the Federal Republic of Nigeria in significant international disputes such as cases at the ICSID. Ogunwumiju\u2019s expertise in international commercial law and corporate governance further complements Savannah\u2019s Board capabilities as the company navigates complex regulatory and operational environments in Africa.<\/p>\n
Chairman Joseph Pagop Noupou\u00e9 emphasised that the Board changes reflect a natural and structured progression of Savannah\u2019s governance, designed to adapt alongside the company\u2019s evolving strategic direction, operational priorities, and growth trajectory. He expressed gratitude to the outgoing directors for their invaluable contributions and welcomed the new appointees, whose professional experience is expected to be instrumental to Savannah\u2019s continued development.<\/p>\n
In addition to these leadership developments, Savannah Energy revealed a delay in the publication of its 2024 Annual Report and Accounts as well as its Half Year Results for the six months ended June 2025. These financial updates, alongside a comprehensive trading update for the nine months ended September 2025, are now expected to be released during the week commencing 13 October 2025. Consequently, trading in Savannah\u2019s shares will remain suspended until the reports are published, in accordance with AIM regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n
The company has committed to maintaining reporting integrity and sound governance practices during this transitional period. The ongoing consultancy roles for the retiring directors are part of the efforts to ensure continuity and a smooth handover of Board responsibilities, underpinning Savannah\u2019s commitment to transparency and operational excellence as it advances its projects that matter across Africa.<\/p>\n