In a groundbreaking move for Nigeria's energy industry, Midwestern Oil and Gas Company has announced the appointment of Engr. Elozino Olaniyan as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, marking the first time a woman will lead the prominent exploration and production firm.
A Historic Appointment for Nigerian Energy
The appointment becomes effective on December 1, 2025, representing a significant milestone in the company's corporate history. Olaniyan brings an impressive portfolio of professional credentials, including fellowships with the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers (FNSChE), and Nigerian Institute of Safety Engineers (FNISafetyE).
This leadership transition signals Midwestern's commitment to inclusive governance and forward-thinking management practices. The company emphasized that this development aligns with its broader mission of responsible growth and contribution to Nigeria's energy development objectives.
Three Decades of Industry Expertise
Engr. Olaniyan joins Midwestern with over 30 years of comprehensive experience in the energy sector. Her expertise spans critical areas including upstream operations, corporate strategy development, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder relationship management.
Prior to this landmark appointment, Olaniyan served as General Manager of Safety & Environment at Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited. During her tenure there, she championed significant reforms that enhanced operational efficiency while strengthening environmental protection and safety management systems.
Her leadership at Renaissance established the company as a benchmark for responsible energy operations and contributed to advancing industry-wide best practices in environmental stewardship.
Strengthened Governance and Future Vision
The leadership transition occurs alongside Midwestern's ongoing efforts to reinforce its corporate governance framework. Recent months have seen the company implement substantial reforms focused on enhancing transparency, accountability, and operational excellence.
Notable changes include the reconstitution of the board of directors, which now features stronger representation from independent non-executive directors to ensure robust oversight. The executive leadership team has also been strengthened under Olaniyan's guidance, bringing together a new generation of energy professionals committed to innovation and sustainability.
Additionally, Midwestern is expanding its local content initiatives through renewed partnership agreements, skills development programs, and energy transition projects that align with Nigeria's national priorities.
Leadership Perspectives on the New Era
Commenting on her historic appointment, Olaniyan expressed honor at leading Midwestern during this pivotal stage. "Our focus will be on operational discipline, transparency, and sustainable growth that benefits all stakeholders," she stated. "Together with our strengthened leadership team, we are poised to deliver long-term value and play an even stronger role in Nigeria's energy future."
Board Chairman Engr. Emeka Okwuosa described the appointment as a defining moment in the company's evolution. "Elozino's leadership represents the new face of Nigerian energy: technically grounded, strategically minded, and deeply committed to sustainability and people," Okwuosa remarked. "The Board has full confidence in her ability to lead Midwestern into its next phase of growth."
This appointment positions Midwestern Oil and Gas at the forefront of gender diversity in Nigeria's traditionally male-dominated energy sector, while reinforcing the company's commitment to excellence in corporate governance and sustainable energy development.
