The board of directors at Eterna Plc has officially announced the appointment of Abiola Lukman Lawal to the esteemed position of Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, effective from the 15th of April, 2024.
Lawal’s appointment is subject to the forthcoming ratification by the shareholders at the upcoming Annual General Meeting of the company. In light of this development, the board extends its gratitude to the outgoing Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Benjamin Nwaezeigwe, who officially tendered his resignation effective from the 8th of April, 2024.
“The Board also announced the resignation of Benjamin Nwaezeigwe as Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of Eterna Plc effective 8th April 2024. This is to inform Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and the investing public of the resignation of Benjamin Nwaezeigwe as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Eterna Plc effective 8th April 2024,” Mandella Golkus the company secretary said.
In acknowledging Nwaezeigwe’s tenure, the board recognizes his two-year service to Eterna Plc, citing his notable contributions to the company’s growth and operations during his leadership.
“Mr. Lawal succeeds Mr. Benjamin Nwaezeigwe, who served the company for two (2) years prior to his resignation. The Board appreciates Mr. Nwaezeigwe for his significant contributions to the Company while he was Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer” Mandella said.
Transitioning to Lawal, the announcement provides a comprehensive profile outlining his extensive professional background and accomplishments. With over twenty-five years of executive leadership experience in both local and international capacities, Lawal brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his new role.
His track record reflects a history of driving positive performance across various C-suite positions within private and publicly listed companies spanning diverse industries. Notably, his expertise in the Oil & Gas sector is highlighted, along with his demonstrated ability to deliver value in executive management roles.
“A Global Executive with over twenty-five years of Management Executive experience in private and publicly listed companies across diverse industries, Mr. Lawal has expansive experience in the Oil & Gas sector and a proven record of value delivery in several aspects of executive management,” Mandella wrote.
Lawal’s most recent role as Deputy Managing Director & Chief Financial Officer at Eroton Exploration and Production Company Limited underscores his proficiency in navigating complex operational landscapes. Additionally, his tenure as Group Chief Strategy Officer at Oando Plc during its transformative phase from downstream to upstream and gas operations showcases his strategic insights and plans.
During his time at Oando, Lawal played a major role in implementing Oracle ERP technology, a strategic initiative that revolutionized the company’s operations. Furthermore, his executive leadership at Oando Gas & Power, as well as Gaslink (now known as Axxella), contributed significantly to their rapid growth.
“Prior to this, he served as Group Chief Strategy Officer of Oando Plc during its transformation from downstream to upstream and Gas. While at Oando he oversaw the successful implementation of Oracle ERP technology as a game changer to transform the operations of the company. He also served as Executive Director of Oando Gas & Power as well as Gaslink (now known as Axxella) during the rapid growth and expansion phase of the then subsidiary”
Beyond his contributions to Oando, Lawal’s career includes notable positions such as Pioneer Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Camac Energy Inc. (later known as Erin Energy), where he facilitated the company’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange—a milestone achievement for Nigerian-owned energy enterprises.
His professional journey also encompasses roles at renowned organizations such as CAMAC International Corporation, ExeQute Partners, Inc., and eWorldtrack Mobile Technologies USA, among others. Notably, his experience spans across various sectors, including technology, consulting, and entertainment.
“He has served in multiple executive roles in other companies, including CAMAC International Corporation and ExeQute Partners, Inc., both in Houston, Texas USA. He served as MD/CEO of eWorldtrack Mobile Technologies USA, as a Senior Manager in SAP AG America, as a Management Consultant and Transformation Manager at Ernst & Young LLP, and as a Senior Financial Analyst at The Walt Disney Corporation in California, USA,” the company secretary further explained.
Lawal’s academic credentials further shows his commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Finance, Strategy, & Technology from the University of California Irvine, he has also completed a Certificate course in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
“Lawal recently completed a Certificate course in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA, he holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Finance, Strategy, & Technology from the University of California Irvine,” said Mandella.
His academic achievements include being honoured as an Outstanding Dean’s Fellowship Award Recipient from the Paul Mirage Graduate School of Management, University of California, Irvine (UCI). Lawal’s educational journey began at the University of Ilorin, Nigeria, where he earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Economics with a Minor in Finance.
