Following the resignation of Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, Oando Plc selected Ademola Akinrele as its board Chairman.
Oando’s secretary, Ayotola Jagun, said in a statement on Friday available to BrandSpur national news stories that Gbadebo had officially informed the board of his intention to retire from Oando’s board and resign as chairman. According to him, Gbadebo’s resignation became effective right away following Oando’s December 17, 2024, annual general meeting (AGM).
She went on to say: “Oba Gbadebo served with unparalleled distinction for over 18 years on the Board, including 12 years as Chairman.
“Throughout his tenure, he provided steadfast leadership, wise counsel, and a fatherly presence, guiding the company through significant milestones, including several landmark transactions. His steady hand and unwavering commitment were pivotal in steering the company through challenges while ensuring growth and resilience.
“The Board and Management of Oando Plc express their deep appreciation to Oba Gbadebo for his remarkable contributions and leadership over the years. His legacy will forever be an integral part of Oando’s story,” she added.
According to Jagun, Akinrele’s vast experience—which includes work at Agip Plc and Danos & Curole Marine Contractors—will propel the company’s strategic strategy ahead. She said: “Mr. Akinrele brings extensive experience and expertise to this role, having previously served as a Non-Executive Director on the Board and as Chairman of the Governance & Nominations Committee. With decades of distinguished service in the legal profession, he is widely recognised as a leading authority in commercial law, litigation, aviation, and maritime matters.
“Mr. Akinrele holds an LL.B (Hons.) from University College London and an LL.M from the University of Cambridge. He has also served on the boards of Agip Plc, Danos & Curole Marine Contractors, and other notable institutions.
“His exceptional leadership abilities and capacity to foster consensus among stakeholders position him well to lead the Board effectively.
“The Board is confident that, under his chairmanship, Oando Plc will build on its legacy of excellence and explore new avenues for growth,” she added.
Cosmas Iwueze was also named by Jagun as an Independent Non-executive Director, with effect from December 16, 2024.
She had this to say: “Cosmas Iwueze is a seasoned petroleum engineer and business leader with over three decades of experience in the oil and gas industry.
“Joining Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) in 1990, Cosmas rose through positions of increasing responsibility across Reservoir and Asset Management, Commercial Development, Operations, Project Management, and Business Strategy. He also gained international experience working with Chevron in California and Angola. Cosmas previously held leadership roles as Business Services Director for Chevron’s Nigeria/Mid-Africa unit, General Manager of Operations, and General Manager of Asset Development and Exploration.
“Notable achievements include securing third-party financing for JV projects and contributing to national petroleum policy development during a secondment to the Nigerian government. Prior to retiring in November 2024, Cosmas served as Director of the NNPC/Chevron Joint Venture (JV), overseeing the JV asset development, major projects, as well as oil and gas production with profit and loss accountability,” she added.
Continuing, she revealed that Cosmos oversaw several General Managers, spearheaded strategic initiatives at the joint venture, and served as Managing Director as needed.
