Savannah Energy Plc has strengthened its corporate governance framework with the appointment of former PwC Nigeria Senior Partner Uyi Akpata as a Non-Executive Director, effective immediately, as the British independent energy company continues to expand its footprint across Africa.
The appointment follows the company’s earlier announcement on October 9, 2025, outlining its intention to add Akpata to the board. Following the publication of Savannah Energy’s 2025 full-year financial statements and the completion of a transition period, he is expected to assume the role of Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.
The move underscores Savannah Energy’s commitment to enhancing board oversight, financial governance, and risk management as it pursues growth opportunities in Africa’s evolving energy sector. Strong audit and risk controls have become increasingly important for energy companies navigating regulatory changes, capital-intensive investments, and shifting global energy markets.
Akpata brings more than four decades of professional experience spanning auditing, corporate governance, financial reporting, and enterprise risk management. During his career at PwC, he held several senior leadership positions, including Senior Partner for Nigeria, Regional Senior Partner for West Africa, and Head of Oil and Gas for Africa before retiring on June 30, 2024.
He also led audit engagements for several international oil companies operating in Nigeria, as well as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, providing him with extensive insight into the operational and regulatory landscape of Africa’s energy industry.
Commenting on the appointment, Savannah Energy Non-Executive Chair Joseph Pagop Noupoué described Akpata as a valuable addition to the board, citing his leadership credentials, extensive governance experience, and deep understanding of the African energy market.
“We are pleased to welcome Uyi to the Savannah Board. His leadership roles at PwC, together with his deep knowledge of the African energy industry, make him an excellent addition to the Board,” Noupoué said.
Akpata welcomed the appointment, describing it as an opportunity to contribute to Savannah Energy’s next phase of growth.
“I am delighted to be joining the Board of Savannah at this important stage in the Company’s development and look forward to contributing my experience in governance, audit and risk oversight to support the Company’s continued growth,” he said.
Beyond Savannah Energy, Akpata holds several influential leadership positions. He serves as Chairman of emPLE Life Insurance, Chairman of the Advisory Board of Unified Payments Limited, and President of the Nigerian Cricket Federation. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.
His appointment is expected to reinforce investor confidence by strengthening Savannah Energy’s governance credentials, particularly as companies across Africa face growing expectations for transparency, accountability, and effective board oversight from shareholders, regulators, and international investors.
