Savannah Energy Strengthens Board with New Appointment
On October 9, 2025, Savannah Energy PLC, a UK-based energy firm committed to advancing Project the Matter, announced the addition of Mr. Uwe Akpata to its Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director, effective immediately. This decision follows the appointment of two Nigerians to the board, marking a strategic move as the company looks to bolster its governance and expertise.
Following the release of the Company’s 2025 annual results, Mr. Akpata will assume the role of Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee after a brief transition period. This appointment is expected to enhance Savannah’s oversight capabilities in these critical areas.
Leadership Comments on Board Changes
Joseph Pagop Noupoe, Non-Executive Chairman of Savannah, expressed enthusiasm regarding Mr. Akpata’s joining the board. He noted that, “We are pleased to welcome Mr. Uwe Akpata to the Savannah Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director. With over 40 years of distinguished experience in audit, risk management, corporate governance, and the energy sector, Mr. Akpata is poised to make significant contributions. His previous leadership roles at PwC and extensive knowledge of Africa’s energy landscape will greatly benefit our board as we aim to expand our operations across the continent and create lasting value for our shareholders.”
Mr. Akpata Shares His Vision
In his remarks, Mr. Akpata highlighted Savannah’s strong position in the energy sector, stating, “Savannah has established a robust and diversified energy business with a clear strategic focus and ample growth prospects. I am eager to collaborate with fellow board members and the management team to leverage my experience in governance, audit, and risk oversight to support the company’s ongoing success.” He emphasized his commitment to contributing to Savannah’s growth trajectory in this dynamic industry.
Profile of Uwe Akpata
Uwe Akpata brings a wealth of experience as a certified public accountant with over four decades in various senior management roles at PwC, a global audit and professional services firm, before retiring on June 30, 2024. His career highlights include senior partner positions in Nigeria, regional senior partner for West Africa, and head of the oil and gas division across Africa. He has also served on both the firm’s global and Africa leadership teams, focusing on the energy sector.
Mr. Akpata’s expertise in assurance services includes leading audits for prominent entities such as the Nigerian National Oil Company as well as multiple emerging energy firms. His experience extends beyond energy, having supervised audits in sectors such as financial services, consumer goods, and agriculture. In October 2024, he founded Rusa Advisory, which specializes in governance and risk management advisory services, with a mission to aid business leaders in achieving sustainable growth and profitability.
Current Endeavors and Achievements
Currently, Mr. Akpata holds several significant positions, including Chairman of the Board of EmPLE Life Insurance and Chairman of the Advisory Board of Unified Payments Limited. He also leads the Unity Schools Old Students Association and the Nigeria Cricket Federation. Previously, he served as Chairman of the Professional Services Group at the British Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria. An alumnus of the University of Lagos, Mr. Akpata holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is a qualified Chartered Accountant, recognized by the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Accountants, where he is a Fellow.
In recognition of his impactful contributions to Nigeria’s business environment, Mr. Akpata was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Management Science by Wellspring University in 2018. He also shares his knowledge as a member of the Board of Directors at Miva Open University, where he serves as a Professor of the Practice of Financial Accounting.
It is noted that Mr. Akpata does not hold any shares in Savannah Energy PLC.
