Elohor Aiboni Takes the Helm as Shell’s Executive Vice President and Country Chair, Nigeria

August 17, 2026 1:54 pm

Last week marked the beginning of a new chapter for Shell in Nigeria as Elohor Aiboni assumed the role of Executive Vice President and Country Chair, Shell Nigeria, with a clear ambition: to lead Shell’s businesses in powering more progress in a country that has been at the heart of Shell’s history for nearly nine decades. From the company’s first search for oil in 1938 to the first commercial discovery in 1958, Shell’s journey in Nigeria has been defined by partnership, innovation and growth.

As she steps into this landmark position, Elohor is both mindful of the legacy she inherits and optimistic about the opportunities ahead.

“I am conscious of the legacy I am stepping into, but I am also encouraged by the strength of our people, the depth of our partnerships and the opportunities ahead.”

Elohor’s appointment is significant on several fronts. She is the first woman to serve as Country Chair in Nigeria and the first Nigerian to combine the roles of Executive Vice President and Country Chair. Breaking new ground is not unfamiliar territory for the chemical engineer who joined Shell in 2002. In 2021, she became the first woman to be appointed Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), Nigeria’s leading deepwater operator.

This latest appointment, however, carries an even broader mandate and strategic significance. As Executive Vice President and Country Chair, Elohor provides leadership oversight across a diverse portfolio of businesses that are central to Nigeria’s energy future. These include deepwater oil and gas production through SNEPCo, industrial gas distribution through Shell Nigeria Gas (SNG), distributed power solutions through Daystar Power, and renewable energy access through All On.

In her first message to staff, she reaffirmed her commitment to building on the company’s achievements while positioning the business for future success.

“As I begin this new chapter, I do so with deep appreciation for the strong foundation already in place and great excitement about the opportunities ahead. We have made significant progress across our business in performance, growth and project delivery, positioning Shell Nigeria strongly for the future. These achievements reflect the talent, resilience and commitment of our people, and I want to thank each of you for the role you have played in making them possible. My commitment is to build on that strong foundation and work alongside all of you to shape the next chapter of success and a future we can all be proud of.”

The outlook for Shell’s deepwater business in Nigeria is particularly promising. Following the Final Investment Decision (FID) on the Bonga North development in December 2024, and the FID on the HI gas project, supplying up to 350 million standard cubic feet of gas per day at peak production to Nigeria LNG, both projects are advancing in project execution, with first oil and first gas respectively anticipated before the end of the decade.

These investments reinforce Shell’s long-term commitment to Nigeria while strengthening the company’s contribution to the country’s energy security and economic development.

Across its businesses, Shell continues to create value for customers, communities and the broader economy. Shell Nigeria Gas supplies nearly 20 billion cubic feet of gas annually to more than 150 industrial customers, enabling industries to transition from heavier fuels to cleaner-burning natural gas. This has helped offset more than 350 million litres of heavy fuel oil each year, reducing emissions and supporting progress toward Shell’s net-zero emissions ambition.

Daystar Power is enabling commercial and industrial customers across West Africa to decarbonise their operations through reliable and affordable hybrid energy solutions. The business currently operates in Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, Togo, and Ghana, helping customers reduce fuel consumption, improve energy reliability and strengthen operational resilience.

Meanwhile, All On, Shell’s impact investment company, continues to accelerate energy access by supporting innovative renewable energy businesses. Its portfolio of 53 energy companies has delivered more than 300,000 energy connections across Nigeria, expanding access to cleaner and more reliable energy solutions.

Shell’s contribution extends beyond its operated businesses. At Nigeria LNG (NLNG), where Shell holds a 25.6% equity stake and serves as technical adviser, construction of Train 7 is progressing. Upon completion, the expansion will add 8 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) to the facility’s production capacity, increasing total capacity from 22 mtpa to 30 mtpa and strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global LNG market.

Together, these businesses position Shell to play a significant role in Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape. From deepwater oil and gas production and LNG development to industrial gas supply, distributed power solutions and renewable energy investments, the portfolio under Elohor’s leadership reflects Shell’s integrated approach to delivering secure, reliable and lower-carbon energy while creating long-term value for customers, partners and the wider economy.

With responsibility for this dynamic portfolio of businesses, the role of Executive Vice President and Country Chair presents both immense opportunities and significant responsibilities. Under Elohor’s leadership, Shell Nigeria is well positioned to build on its strong legacy while shaping a new era of growth, innovation, and value creation.

Shortly after formally receiving the mantle of office from her predecessor, Marno de Jong, during a handover ceremony in Lagos on July 28, Elohor offered a glimpse of the leadership mindset she brings to the role: “The hard work starts now, and I look forward to the exciting years ahead.”

As Shell continues to invest across its businesses and expand its contribution to Nigeria’s energy future, the years ahead present a unique opportunity to unlock growth, strengthen partnerships and power more progress for generations to come.

By Precious OKOLOBO

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