LAGOS, Nigeria – Shell Companies in Nigeria (SCiN) has marked a significant milestone in its corporate history with the appointment of Elohor Aiboni as its new Executive Vice President and Country Chair, making her the first Nigerian and the first woman to occupy the prestigious position.
The leadership transition ceremony, held at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, brought together senior government officials, industry executives, development partners, and key stakeholders from Nigeria’s energy sector to celebrate the outgoing Country Chair, Marno de Jong, while welcoming a new era of indigenous and inclusive leadership.
Among the attendees was Leah Tolulope Akinfiresoye Orijeminiyi, Senior Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister for Youth and Social Security. She attended the event alongside the Coordinating Director of the Decade of Gas Initiative, Engr. Ed Ubong, who represented the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas).
Speaking after the event, Orijeminiyi described the ceremony as an important platform for engaging with leaders across Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, strengthening strategic relationships, and exploring opportunities for collaboration that will contribute to national development and youth empowerment.
She noted that interactions with policymakers, industry leaders, and development stakeholders underscored the importance of partnerships in driving innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development within the energy sector.
The appointment of Elohor Aiboni has also been widely regarded as a landmark achievement for gender inclusion in Nigeria’s corporate landscape. Her emergence reflects the increasing recognition of women in executive leadership positions and demonstrates the growing opportunities available to qualified Nigerian professionals to lead global organisations operating within the country.
Industry observers believe that such appointments inspire a new generation of young women and girls to pursue careers in engineering, energy, science, technology, and executive management. It also reinforces the message that competence, experience, and visionary leadership continue to shape the future of Nigeria’s corporate sector.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the gathering provided an opportunity for participants to network, exchange ideas, and discuss emerging trends shaping Nigeria’s energy future. Stakeholders highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, private sector organisations, and development institutions in achieving the objectives of the Decade of Gas initiative, enhancing local content, and creating employment opportunities for Nigerian youths.
The evening concluded with renewed optimism about the future of Nigeria’s energy industry, as attendees expressed confidence that stronger partnerships, inclusive leadership, and sustained investment in local talent would accelerate economic growth and strengthen the country’s position as a leading energy hub in Africa.
The historic appointment of Elohor Aiboni is expected to serve as an inspiration to aspiring professionals across Nigeria, particularly young women, while reaffirming the importance of diversity, inclusion, and indigenous leadership in shaping the future of the nation’s strategic industries.