Michael Walter

Heirs to unlock new era of industrialisation with gas exploration

Driven by its African identity, Nigerian independent Heirs Energies operates with an in-house development approach, partnering largely with indigenous contractors

Following its inspiring success story with OML 17, the company is ready to take on further challenging projects, now eyeing the Republic of Congo.

Heirs Energies CEO, Osa Ighiehon, reveals to Oil Review Africa what it takes to thrive as an African independent in today’s energy industry and much more:

What according to you does Nigeria’s oil and gas industry need right now to attain its full potential?

Nigeria is at a critical moment. We possess the resources and the human capital to be a global energy leader, yet we are constrained by a few critical but addressable challenges. To unlock our full potential, we must act decisively on three fronts.

First, we must establish unwavering policy certainty. The lifeblood of our industry is investment, and capital flows to jurisdictions that offer predictability and stability. We need a clear, consistent, and transparent regulatory framework, one where fiscal term are stable and approvals are streamlined. Without this foundational trust, we risk ceding competitive advantage and watching investment capital migrate to more predictable markets. There has been a lot of progress on this front in the past few years with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and Presidential Directives.

Secondly, we must secure our infrastructure and consolidate the gains we’ve made. The scourge of oil theft has been a direct drain on our national treasury. However, the solution that has been deployed needs to be sustained and the threat/vulnerabilities permanently mitigated. As demonstrated with OML 17, where we moved from a 3% terminal delivery to over 99%, it is possible to secure assets through a collaborative model that integrates community engagement, corporate strategy, and crucially, the strengthened security framework provided by the government. This proven model must now be scaled nationally to protect our vital revenue streams and restore investor confidence.

Lastly, and most critically, we must execute a strategic pivot to gas. While oil built our economy, gas is the undeniable key to our future. Sitting on the largest proven gas reserves in Africa, it is an economic paradox that we remain dependent on imported fuels. Gas is the catalyst that will power our industries, generate stable electricity, and drive sustainable economic diversification. At Heirs Energies, we have moved from rhetoric to action, increasing our gas production from 70 mn standard cu/ft to 125 mn standard cu/ft. This is not merely a business decision; it is a national imperative. By prioritising gas, we can finally unlock a new era of industrialisation and long-term prosperity for Nigeria.

While digitalisation is largely being considered the key to production optimisation, do you believe it’s the sole requisite to success?

Digital tools are important, but they are not a magic fix. Technology helps us work smarter, but it can’t replace the need for strong leadership and skilled people.

We use technology at Heirs Energies for monitoring and efficiency. But our biggest breakthroughs have come from our teams. For example, our engineers developed a low-cost way to bring old gas wells back to life. That idea didn’t come from a software programme; it came from deep understanding, out-of-the-box thinking and a solution mindset.

While digitalisation gives us better data, our success finally depends on our people – their expertise, ingenuity and commitment to safety. Its this human element that truly makes the most difference.

What is Heirs Energies’ future strategy with OML 17 and other oil and gas assets?

Our strategy is to build on the proof point that OML 17 represents. When we acquired it, many doubted whether a Nigerian independent could revive such a complex, underperforming asset. Today, we have doubled production, restored security, and brought new energy to the domestic gas market. That success gives us the confidence to look ahead with intent.

At OML 17, we are determined to keep pushing performance higher – optimising oil output, scaling gas production further, and embedding the community partnerships that have become a hallmark of our approach. But the bigger picture goes beyond one asset, we see opportunities across Nigeria and Africa to apply our Brownfield Excellence model – identifying underperforming fields, deploying innovation and discipline, and turning them into engines of growth.

What matters to us is creating long-term value for our investors, for the communities where we operate, and for the economies that depend on reliable energy. That means expanding carefully, investing responsibly, and ensuring that every molecule we produce helps to power Africa’s development. OML 17 was the beginning – but our ambition is to shape the model of how African companies can deliver world-class results and shared prosperity, consistently and at scale.

Michael Walter In News

Made In Nigeria: Heirs Energies Leans On Local Talent To Revive OML 17

With investments in training and indigenous contractors, Heirs Energies restored production at a once-struggling asset, signalling confidence in Nigerian expertise and the future of domestic energy.

When Heirs Energies took over Oil Mining Lease (OML) 17 in 2021, the asset was struggling. Production had dwindled and infrastructure was ageing. Four years later, the story has changed dramatically: oil output has more than doubled, gas production has surged, and the field is now run entirely by Nigerians.

Heirs Energies, Africa’s largest indigenous-owned energy company, deliberately bet on local capacity. Instead of relying on costly foreign consultants, the company staffed their over $1billion investment, OML 17, with a 100% Nigerian workforce and ensured that 95% of contracting was awarded to indigenous firms.

“We believe in ownership, speed and resilience,” says Osayande Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies. “Local teams understand terrain, culture and communities better. Building Nigerian capability secures our long-term licence to operate.”

This focus on people and culture has been a large part of the transformation. Vice President of Human Resources, Ms Eluemuno` Olumagin, explains: “Heirs Energies has strategically assembled a phenomenal team and fostered an enabling culture that drives innovation and challenges the status quo. Our unwavering commitment to developing talent and contractor capacity has culminated in a highly skilled Nigerian workforce that successfully and safely operates one of the most complex assets in the country. This performance is a compelling demonstration that African organisations, through strategic people investment, can compete and excel on the global stage.”

The results speak for themselves. Oil production in OML 17 rose from around 20,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boepd) in 2021 to consistently exceeding 50,000 boepd in 2025, while gas output climbed from 70 million standard cubic feet per day (MMscf/d) to around 125 MMscf/d. Now, Nigerian engineers and contractors manage five flow stations, two Associated Gas Gathering (AGG) plants, and two Non-Associated Gas (NAG) plants. The ripple effect has boosted the economy of Rivers State and beyond, creating jobs and strengthening local supply chains.

Reaching this point involved overcoming significant obstacles. According to Igiehon, three hurdles stood out:

Skills: Addressed through structured training programmes, mentorship opportunities, and partnerships with original equipment manufacturers to facilitate on-the-job learning.
Processes: Outdated systems were replaced with lean, value-driven operations and global Health, Safety and Environment standards.
Vendors: Capacity was expanded to build a 95% indigenous contractor base, keeping jobs and spending in Nigeria.

Once these foundations were in place, the company focused on repairing and expanding OML 17. Ageing pipelines were fixed, bottlenecks were removed, and more than 100 dormant wells were reactivated. Safety became a core value: staff were trained to see themselves as safety officers, leading to over 1.5 million safe man-hours and 1,627 Lost-Time Injury-free days by mid-2025.

On the ground, ingenuity further drove success. Rather than relying on costly interventions, Heirs Energies scaled up gas production using innovative local solutions such as low-cost, rigless through-tubing. In November 2024, the Agbada-68T well was restored using this approach, followed by Agbada-67T in August 2025. Together, they added 65 MMscf/d of gas capacity.

“OML 17 was a classic brownfield value opportunity,” Igiehon reflects. “It was a quality asset underperforming due to underinvestment and security challenges. We believed that we could unlock its full potential with local know-how, our Africapitalism philosophy, and our commitment to brownfield excellence.”

Looking ahead, if this model succeeds in the long term, Heirs Energies may well set a precedent for indigenous operators across Africa: ownership of skills and suppliers, investment in domestic gas, and nimble technical interventions to revive underperforming assets.

For Nigeria — and for Africa more broadly — it is a powerful example of what can be achieved when local solutions are implemented by local hands, delivering prosperity for communities while securing the continent’s energy future.

Source: Africa.com

Michael Walter In News

Africa’s energy future: Why optimism is warranted

By Osa Igiehon

October 6, 2025

As Africa Energy Week wraps up in Cape Town, we are faced with a pressing question: Can we genuinely fulfill the promise of eradicating energy poverty by 2030?

The answer hinges not on foreign investment or external solutions, but rather on a crucial factor—African responsibility for our own challenges.

Currently, around 600 million Africans live without electricity. In Nigeria alone, over 85 million individuals lack reliable access to power, despite the continent’s vast natural gas reserves that could potentially electrify the region.

This paradox of resource abundance juxtaposed with energy scarcity highlights a significant crisis of purpose and execution within our energy sector.

The real issue is not whether Africa can bridge this debilitating energy gap; it is whether we, as Africans, are prepared to take ownership of the problem and act with determination to find solutions.

Breaking free from dependency

For far too long, Africa’s energy narrative has been dictated by external forces. Policies have been crafted by consultants, timelines set by financiers, and agendas shaped by global institutions.

This dependency has fostered a culture of blame, where external factors such as sanctions, market fluctuations, and investor hesitance are cited as reasons for our failures.

However, these excuses do not account for the fact that proven reserves remain untapped, gas continues to flare while millions remain in darkness, and oil production has seen a decline over the past two decades.

The uncomfortable truth is that Africans must develop and implement solutions that are grounded in our local realities.

No one understands our complexities better than we do, nor do they care more about our development. The moment we take full ownership of our challenges is the moment we can begin to make real progress.

Defining Accountability in Energy Management

Accountability is not merely a buzzword; it is a measurable standard. Take Nigeria’s OML 17, for example—one of the country’s most intricate onshore assets.

Under new management, production doubled within just 100 days, achieving a remarkable 99.8% reconciliation factor in a region historically plagued by losses.

Every drop of oil reached the terminal, and every molecule of gas contributed to Nigeria’s domestic market, powering homes and industries alike.

The success of OML 17 serves as a replicable model for other countries like Congo, Angola, and Gabon, which face similar challenges with aging infrastructure and declining production.

The methodology is proven, the approach scalable, and the results demonstrate that African-led operations can achieve world-class performance when accountability is prioritized.

These achievements did not arise from foreign expertise or massive capital influxes. They emerged from rejecting the notion that theft and inefficiency are inherent to African operations.

When Africans apply their skills with purpose, create transparent systems, engage communities as partners, and hold themselves to high standards, transformation is not just possible—it is inevitable.

The Ambitious Goal of 2030

Can Africa truly eliminate energy poverty by 2030? While the timeline is undeniably ambitious, the focus should not solely be on the date itself but rather on establishing the systems and local ownership necessary to make progress a reality.

To meet the energy needs of the continent, Africa requires approximately $2 trillion in infrastructure investment by 2030.

Current investment levels fall significantly short of this target, and global capital increasingly favors markets with proven governance.

To attract the necessary investment, we must demonstrate that African operations can yield returns, safeguard assets, and benefit local communities.

Optimism should not stem from wishful thinking but from tangible evidence that Africans can seize control of their destiny. Each successful operation and community partnership serves as proof that the narrative of needing external management is outdated.

Africa’s energy future

Africa’s energy future must transition from a history characterised by extraction to one focused on sustainable development.

This shift requires measurable commitments: building local workforces, investing in training, developing indigenous expertise, engaging communities as partners, adhering to global standards, and investing local capital alongside foreign investments.

Energy poverty will not dissipate simply because 2030 arrives; it will end when Africans collectively decide that living in darkness is unacceptable and take decisive action to change it. The resources, technology, and talent are already present.

What remains is the courage to fully embrace the challenge and propel the continent toward energy sufficiency.

As we move forward, it is imperative that we harness our collective potential and take ownership of our energy future.

The author, Osa Igiehon is a transformational energy business executive, thought leader and innovator. He is the CEO of Heirs Energies, an African energy company. These views are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of his organisation.

Source: Trtafrika

Michael Walter In News & Press Releases, Press-release

Heirs Energies Champions Indigenous Leadership and Africapitalism at African Energy Week 2025

Lagos, Nigeria – 24 September 2025 – Heirs Energies, Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, is set to make a strong impact at Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025, taking place from 29 September – 2 October 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa.

Represented by CEO Osa Igiehon and Executive Director/CFO Sam Nwanze, Heirs Energies will join global policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to shape critical conversations around Africa’s energy future.

CEO Osa Igiehon to Spotlight Indigenous Excellence

Osa will feature in two high-level sessions:

• Brownfield Developments: Key to Stabilising African Production and Energy Resilience (30 September, 2025): exploring how African independents can transform mature assets into engines of growth, drawing from Heirs Energies’ turnaround of OML 17 into a benchmark for African-led operational excellence.

• Invest in the Republic of Congo Roundtable (1 October, 2025): sharing insights from Nigeria’s experience to help frontier regions accelerate development through brownfield excellence, community engagement, and investor confidence.

“At Heirs Energies, we don’t just believe Africa’s mature and frontier assets hold promise, we have proven it. The OML 17 turnaround shows that with the right governance, innovation, and local execution, indigenous operators can unlock value where others saw decline. We’ve turned challenges into engines of growth, and that is the model we want to see replicated across Africa,” said Igiehon.

CFO Sam Nwanze to Address Asset Divestments and Financing

On 1 October, Sam will join the Navigating Asset Divestments in Africa’s Upstream Sector panel, discussing strategies for financing African independents and de-risking mature assets. He will spotlight Heirs Energies’ distinctive Africapitalism approach – combining financial discipline with purpose-driven impact.

“The divestment wave creates opportunities for African players to lead, but credibility is key. Success depends on structuring investable projects, building trust with partners, and embedding impact into every deal,” Nwanze noted.

Heirs Energies’ participation at AEW underscores the Africapitalism philosophy of Heirs Holdings Group Chairman Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, which positions the private sector at the heart of Africa’s transformation by creating both economic prosperity and social wealth.

From doubling production at OML 17 within 100 days, to ensuring every molecule of gas produced powers Nigerian homes and industries, Heirs Energies has shown what’s possible when African companies take the lead.

Our story is one of resilience, innovation, and purpose – proving that indigenous operators can match and exceed global standards while creating lasting impact in our communities. As we look ahead, we remain committed to shaping Africa’s energy future with excellence, responsibility, and shared prosperity.

Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals. With a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contributes to a more prosperous Africa.

Michael Walter In Latest news

Why do millions still live without electricity in Africa?

Addis Ababa, 23 September 2025 (ECA) – Hundreds of millions of Africans still live without electricity, relying on kerosene, candles and firewood. The cost is measured in stalled growth, missed opportunities, and about 700,000 preventable deaths each year. Can stronger policies, fairer financing and new technologies finally turn the tide?

The oft-quoted figure, 600 million Africans without electricity, has become alarmingly familiar. Repeated in reports and conferences, it risks triggering stats fatigue. Yet in homes, hospitals and businesses, the effects remain painfully visible.

Families burn kerosene lamps, exposing children to toxic fumes. Nurses struggle to refrigerate vaccines, power incubators or ensure safe deliveries during blackouts. Traders lose goods as freezers thaw, while shopkeepers are forced to close at dusk.

The World Health Organization estimates indoor air pollution from polluting fuels kills 3.2 millionpeople globally each year, including more than 237,000 children under five. In Africa, the toll is about 700,000 annually, from pneumonia, heart disease, chronic respiratory illness, stroke and lung cancer.

The burden is heaviest in Nigeria, where more than 80 million people lack power, the largest number worldwide. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Ethiopia add another 130 million between them. Together, these three countries account for nearly a third of Africans still living in the dark.

Without electricity, hopes for value-added manufacturing, jobs and competitive exports remain out of reach.

For Damilola Ogunbiyi, CEO and UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), the first hurdle is policy and finance. She underscored the need for robust national frameworks and concessional financing to back them.

“At SEforAll, one of the key shifts has been moving from commitments to actual implementation,” she said, stressing the need to translate pledges into results. In collaboration with the UN Energy, SEforALL tracks progress each year, from new EV charging stations to broader electrification gains and their impact.

Ms Ogunbiyi emphasized that while the transition will be gradual for many countries, Africa must “seize the opportunity” to build a greener energy future from the ground up.

That opportunity, however, is slipping away. Claver Gatete, Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), has often lamented that the continent receives less than 3 per cent of global energy investment despite holding 60 per cent of the world’s solar potential.

“The financing gap threatens to leave Africa locked into short-term fixes rather than long-term solutions,” Mr Gatete warned.

Robert Lisinge, Director of Technology, Innovation, Connectivity and Infrastructure at ECA, said the Commission works with the African Union, SADC and other bodies to shape frameworks such as the Continental Energy Security Policy and the SADC Just Energy Transition Policy. The aim, he said, is to align national strategies with the SDGs and Agenda 2063, while ensuring Africa’s energy priorities are not sidelined in global debates.

But it’s not all gloomy across Africa. Kenya has made commendable and replicable strides, generating more than 80 per cent of its power from renewables. Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate complex is also worthy of note; it is often cited among the world’s largest solar facilities.

Nuclear energy is also part of Africa’s energy debate. Mr Lisinge noted that more than 20 countries are considering small modular and micro reactors as options for rural electrification. The technology remains controversial, with doubts over cost, safety and waste.

However, advocates point out that countries such as France and Canada have long used nuclear as a reliable source of low carbon power and argue that with proper regulation it could complement renewables and provide the stable baseload Africa needs for growth.

Some African private companies are also positioning themselves to help bridge the continent’s energy gap. Osayande Igiehon, Chief Executive Officer of Heirs Energies, said the firm is working to make existing oil and gas assets cleaner and more efficient while expanding renewable projects. Alongside reducing emissions, he said, projects are designed to bring jobs, schools, clinics and roads to local communities.

Mr Igiehon explained that the company’s wider strategy is to expand across the energy chain, while steadily building its renewables portfolio. Hydrocarbons, he noted, still meet today’s demand, but renewables must carry tomorrow’s growth.

Equally important are the contributions of young Africans across the continent, from Kenya and Kigali to Ghana and Nigeria, who are developing local solutions to expand access, from solar start-ups to community-led clean energy projects.

Closing Africa’s power gap will shape the pace of industrialization, the strength of the AfCFTA, and the credibility of Agenda 2063. Above all, it will determine whether millions continue to die needlessly from energy poverty, or whether Africa seizes the chance to power a more equitable and sustainable future.

Damilola Ogunbiyi, Robert Lisinge and Osayande Igiehon were all interviewed for the latest episode of ECA’s Sustainable Africa Series.

Michael Walter In News & Press Releases, Press-release

Heirs Energies and World Literacy Foundation Join Forces to Transform Literacy in Rivers State, Nigeria

Port Harcourt, Nigeria – 8 September 2025 – In commemoration of International Literacy Day 2025, Heirs Energies Ltd., Africa’s leading indigenous integrated energy company, and the World Literacy Foundation (WLF), a global non-profit dedicated to eradicating illiteracy, today announced the launch of the Sun Books Literacy Initiative in Rivers State, Nigeria.

The initiative will directly benefit more than 500 pupils at Central State Primary School, Omuohia-Igwuruta, and Umuebulu Primary School, Umuebulu, both located within Heirs Energies’ OML 17 host communities. Pupils will receive solar-powered Sun Books tablets, preloaded with culturally relevant, curriculum-aligned literacy content and interactive learning modules. Solar panels will also be installed in the schools to ensure uninterrupted power for the devices and classrooms, creating sustainable access to education in resource-limited environments.

Globally, more than 770 million people still lack basic literacy skills, with millions of African children facing barriers to education daily. In Nigeria, UNESCO estimates that one in three children cannot read or write at the expected level by age 10, with rural areas and girls most severely affected.

The Sun Books programme is designed to address these structural gaps by providing offline-first digital learning tools that work in low-infrastructure settings. Teachers in participating schools will also receive hands-on training to integrate digital literacy into classroom instruction, ensuring continuity of learning and stronger long-term outcomes.

Originally piloted in Uganda, Sun Books has already reached over 17,000 children, trained more than 280 teachers, and supported over 48,000 families across Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa.

Osa Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies, reaffirmed the company’s long-term vision for community empowerment:

“As an integrated energy company, we know that renewable and sustainable energy must serve a greater purpose — building stronger, more resilient communities. Our investment in literacy is an investment in the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. This initiative reflects our Africapitalism philosophy – creating social good while delivering economic value. With Sun Books, we are empowering children to dream beyond their circumstances and equipping teachers with tools to make learning engaging and inclusive.”

Mr. Andrew Kay, CEO of the World Literacy Foundation, underscored the global significance of the collaboration:

“This partnership with Heirs Energies demonstrates the power of cross-sector collaboration. By combining renewable energy and digital learning, we are providing children with the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed – regardless of geography or circumstance. Together, we are closing the literacy gap in underserved communities and preparing the next generation for the digital economy.”

Adding the community perspective, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Samuel Amaechi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, OML 17 Host Communities Development Trust (HCDT) Board of Trustees, said:

“This initiative shows what is possible when companies listen to their host communities and act in partnership. Education is the greatest legacy we can give our children. With the Sun Books programme, our schools now have the tools to prepare them for the future. We thank Heirs Energies and the World Literacy Foundation for investing in our children and in the long-term prosperity of our communities.”

The Sun Books Literacy Initiative serves as the launchpad for Heirs Energies’ Power Schools Initiative, which aims to deploy clean energy and digital infrastructure across schools in its host communities.

This milestone also aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy), reinforcing both organisations’ shared commitment to building inclusive, sustainable, and knowledge-driven societies.

About Heirs Energies

Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals.  Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contribute to a more prosperous Africa.

About World Literacy Foundation and Sun Books

Sun Books is a pioneering EdTech initiative by the World Literacy Foundation (WLF), providing solar-powered tablets preloaded with culturally relevant, curriculum-aligned literacy content, offline-first interactive learning apps, and comprehensive teacher guides. Designed to address literacy gaps in off-grid and underserved communities, Sun Books supports children aged 4–12 in developing strong reading and learning skills, even in resource-limited settings.

World Literacy Foundation (WLF) is a global non-profit dedicated to eradicating illiteracy worldwide. Established in 2003 in Australia, WLF now operates across Africa, Latin America, the United States, and the United Kingdom, impacting over 115 million children and their families. By combining technology, community engagement, teacher development, and advocacy, the foundation works to close the literacy gap and empower communities with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive.

Michael Walter In News & Press Releases, Press-release

Heirs Energies: An African Champion

We hear a lot about African champions, African role models, African innovation and excellence. How we should demonstrate Africa’s potential. The potential we know exists.

When we founded Heirs Energies, our vision was bold, yet simple: an African integrated energy business, grounded in excellence, execution, and enterprise, that could redefine what is possible in our oil and gas industry.

Heirs Energies is delivering. From the acquisition of OML 17 in 2021, we moved with urgency and discipline. ln 100 days, we doubled production safely and responsibly; demonstrating African companies have the expertise and resilience to deliver at global standards.

Four years on, production has reached 55,000 barrels of oil per day, with a clear path higher.

African expertise and vision came together to unlock significant value from what was considered a mature asset. Through strategic investment in technology, people, and processes, we have shown that aging infrastructure can be revitalised, while upholding world-class operational standards. We call this “Brownfield Excellence”, our core competence.

We have industry-leading safety records; zero fatalities, zero serious injuries, and no Loss Time lnjury (LTl), while operating at scale in the Niger Delta.

Beyond safety, our commitment runs deep: we invest in our host communities, empower local talent, and nurture the next generation of African energy leaders.

What we have achieved in such a short time is remarkable.

But the real story lies ahead.

With the dedication of our people under the leadership of Osa lgiehon, Heirs Energies is delivering value, while meeting Africa’s unique energy needs and building an African champion.

#TOEWay

Michael Walter In News & Press Releases, Press-release

Heirs Energies Strengthens Africa’s Energy Voice at Major International Forums

Lagos, Nigeria – 18th August 2025 – Heirs Energies, Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, continued to amplify its commitment to energy sufficiency for Africa with a strong presence at two landmark events: the U.S.–Africa Energy Forum and the Namibia International Oil & Gas Conference 2025.

At both forums, Heirs Energies showcased its strategy of responsibly harnessing Africa’s vast natural resources to deliver energy security, drive industrialization, and create long-term shared prosperity.

At the USAEF in Houston, Texas, Osa Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies, joined global energy leaders and policymakers in high-level sessions examining the future of energy partnerships between the U.S. and Africa.

Speaking on Heirs Energies’ vision, Osa Igiehon emphasized that:
“Africa must define its energy future by leveraging both its abundant hydrocarbons and renewable resources. At Heirs Energies, we are committed to making energy sufficiency a reality for millions, while ensuring that sustainability, innovation, and local capacity building remain at the heart of our growth story.”

The forum provided a platform to strengthen dialogue with U.S. investors, technology providers, and government agencies on financing and innovation to accelerate Africa’s energy independence.

Following USAEF, Heirs Energies extended its strategic engagement to Namibia, one of Africa’s most exciting frontier markets for oil and gas. Osa participated in a high-profile panel session alongside international and regional operators, sharing perspectives on building responsible and inclusive energy industries across Africa.

On Namibia’s future, he noted: “This visit marks the beginning of a long-term engagement, with many more interactions to come as we explore opportunities to contribute meaningfully to Namibia’s energy story.”

Heirs Energies’ presence underscored its role not just as a Nigerian operator, but as a pan-African energy company committed to delivering energy solutions that balance commercial viability with societal impact.

Both engagements reflected Heirs Energies’ anchoring philosophy of Africapitalism, championed by its Founder and Group Chairman, Tony O. Elumelu, CFR. This philosophy asserts that the private sector must drive Africa’s development by investing in strategic sectors that create both economic prosperity and social wealth

Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals.  Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contribute to a more prosperous Africa.

Michael Walter In Uncategorized

Heirs Energies will expand across Africa — Osa Igiehon, CEO Heirs Energies

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Heirs Energies, Mr. Osa Igiehon is not an easy man to get for an exclusive interview due to his very tight schedule. But the Crude Reports magazine editorial team’s persistence and patience got us the desired result.

In this interview, Mr. Osa Igiehon spoke on a number of issues about the growth of Heirs Energies and other related matters affecting the Nigerian oil and gas industry.

Below are the excerpts:

Question 1:
As Africa’s largest indigenous-owned energy company, what is the remarkable feat achieved by Heirs Energies that sets it apart from other competitors? You mentioned it during the SAIPEC conference of 2025 held at Eko Hotel.

Response:

The turnaround of OML 17 is a clear example of what sets Heirs Energies apart.

When we acquired OML 17, many in the industry doubted whether we could manage such a complex asset, questioning if we had the technical and operational capacity to deliver, as new entrants. But based on our Africapitalism investment approach and history of turnaround excellence, we saw potential where others saw challenges.

Within 100 days, we stabilised operations, addressed critical infrastructure issues, and doubled production – all without drilling a single new well. This was achieved by application of our novel Brownfield Excellence approach, building strong partnerships with host communities, and maintaining disciplined execution.

Beyond production, we commissioned the Agbada Non-Associated Gas (NAG) plant, a facility that had been under development for over 12 years without completion under previous operators. We were able to bring it online seamlessly, expanding gas supply for power generation and industries, and advancing our commitment to gas to provide fuel and feedstock power plants and industries respectively.

What makes this achievement remarkable is that it was driven by a wholly indigenous team, supported by local contractors, while operating to international standards. At a time when many fields were facing decline, we proved that African operators can successfully transform underperforming assets into productive, cash-generating fields with disciplined focus and execution.

Our success in turning around OML-17 has helped also underpinned the resurgence of the Nigerian Oil and Gas industry. It showed that it was possible to operate safely and compliantly in the Niger Delta. Our success debunked many myths and negative stigmas about the Niger Delta, thereby showing a veritable example that helped catalyse a more positive disposition of operators, investors and the general public about Niger Delta.

Question 2:
Energy transition is crucial to the oil and gas industry. What are the strategies employed by Heirs Energies to achieve this?

Response:

At Heirs Energies, we take a practical, Africa-focused approach to the energy transition. For us, the energy transition that Africa needs is to transit from the current state of “energy deficiency” to a future state of “energy sufficiency”. With over 50% (or over 600 million) sub-Saharan Africans without adequate energy, achieving energy sufficiency is a key imperative to secure the economic development that is badly needed to lift our continent and its people.

For us at Heirs Energies, we believe that Africa’s push for energy sufficiency clearly recognizes the global needs to decarbonise. However, with Africa currently contributing only 4% of global emissions, we posit that with a balanced mix of fossil and renewables, incorporating latest technologies, Africa can achieve twin objectives of energy sufficiency and will remain the lowest emissions continent on the world.

Energy sufficiency will be transformational for Africa. Part of the major underlying reasons for Africa’s underdevelopment is insufficient energy. We must envision and achieve the outcome of a continent that has 100% electric power supply to all industries, businesses, schools and homes. Attaining such an outcome for energy will catalyse unprecedented investment, jobs and employment, productivity at all levels (artisanal to industrial), and significantly improve social empowerment and wellbeing.

The journey to this energy future and the future state will have Gas at its core. Since acquiring OML 17, we have doubled our gas production capacity, supplying power generation and industries while displacing higher-emission fuels like diesel and at the local levels, use of firewood and other lower efficiency energy sources.

Heirs Energies commitment to Gas development, production and processing is a key plank of our long term strategy to help uniquely address Nigeria’s and Africa’s energy challenges.

As part of this strategy, we are also focused on eliminating routine flaring ahead of regulatory timelines. We participate actively in the Nigeria Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme and have invested in technologies to capture and monetise gas that would otherwise be wasted, turning environmental challenges into economic value.

In parallel, we continue to improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions across our value chain. This includes rehabilitating infrastructure, upgrading systems, and leveraging technology to monitor and manage emissions.

For us, the energy transition is not about slogans; it is about delivering reliable energy today while investing to make material contribution to Africa’s journey of energy sufficiency whilst remaining the lowest emissions continent.

Question 3:
What are the plans and timeline for increased production from OML 17?

Response:

Our goal at Heirs Energies is to continue unlocking the full potential of OML 17 in an innovative and sustainable manner.

Since taking over the asset, we have stabilised operations and doubled production sustainably within a short period, proving what is possible with innovation and focused execution. Looking ahead, our plan is to further increase production through a phased approach that prioritises system reliability, targeted well interventions, and infrastructure upgrades.

With our brownfield excellence approach, we are wrapping up our program of Closed In Wells Reactivation where we tripled the number of wells producing, and are now progressing into the next phase that will be dominated by Well Workovers. In this next phase, we will also be making strategic investments in the surface equipment to improve system effectiveness and capacity. Additionally, we are innovating the traditional maintenance approach prevalent in the industry which we have found to be very reactive, to a more proactive maintenance approach. With this phase and subsequent phase of our growth program, we will be able to overcome natural decline and grow the production incrementally in the coming months and years. We are also working to strengthen the robustness of evacuation routes and develop processing capacities to ensure that as we increase output, we can efficiently deliver to the market.

Our timelines are aligned with our commitment to responsible growth. Over the next three to five years, we aim to increase production levels significantly beyond current output, while ensuring we maintain our focus on safety, environmental stewardship, and value delivery to our stakeholders.

For us, increasing production at OML 17 is not just about volume; it is about doing so in a way that supports Nigeria’s energy security, creates local value, and aligns with the country’s broader development goals.

Question 4:
What partnerships does Heirs Energies have with other IOCs and indigenous oil and gas players?

Response:

Partnership is central to how we operate at Heirs Energies. We recognise that collaboration across the industry is critical to unlocking Africa’s energy potential.

We work closely with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) through our joint venture on OML 17, maintaining an open and constructive partnership to deliver production growth and value for all stakeholders. This collaboration has been instrumental in our success at OML 17, demonstrating how indigenous operators and national partners can drive operational excellence together. This is same with all our regulators.

We also engage with other indigenous oil and gas players and service providers, leveraging local expertise and capacity across our operations. Over 95% of our contractors are local, and we see this local collaboration as a key part of our competitive advantage.

In addition, we are open to exploring technical and operational collaborations with international oil companies (IOCs) where there is alignment on creating value, transferring knowledge, and advancing operational standards within the Nigerian and African energy sectors.

For us, partnerships are not just transactions; they are long-term relationships built on shared values, as well as the commitment to advancing Africa’s energy industry responsibly.

Question 5:
In giving back to the environment, can you highlight the achievements of Heirs Energies’ CSR initiatives?

Response:

At Heirs Energies, we view involving our host communities in our business ecosystem as integral to how we operate, not as separate CSR activities. Our Chairman, CEO and many of our other directors, executives, management and workforce are from the Niger Delta, and we operate with a shared destiny mindset.

So, involving our communities is both from the “heart” and from the “head”. From the heart, we engage with our communities respectfully and symbiotically. From the head, we have promptly established the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) structures mandated by Government via the Petroleum Industry Act.

The HCDT evolves from best practice approach by indigenous companies in managing relations with host communities. We have implemented that in our characteristically innovative manner and the OML-17 HCDT is seen as a beacon of inclusion and opportunity by our host communities. The HCDT approach is the first by law that recognizes the role of host communities in the oil and gas extractive process, and mandates a portion of the operating budget for communities, as opposed to the hitherto approach where this was left to the parties to agree.

With this approach our host communities are partners in progress, with resources directly supporting local development priorities. This has resulted in investments in healthcare, education, and infrastructure projects that address community needs while fostering stability around our operations.

We have also prioritised local content, with over 95% of our contractors being local companies, ensuring that our activities create jobs and build capacity within the communities we operate.

For us, CSR is about creating shared value, ensuring that while we pursue operational and financial objectives, we also contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability and the long-term development of our communities.

Question 6:
What is the big picture that Heirs Energies is looking at in the nearest future in terms of growth and expansion drive beyond Nigeria, Africa, and the global level?

Response:

At Heirs Energies, our big picture is clear: to build Africa’s leading integrated energy company, delivering reliable, affordable energy while creating value across the continent.

In the near term, we are focused on unlocking the full potential of our current assets, particularly OML 17, through innovative production growth, further development of our gas portfolio, and continued operational excellence. We will deepen our role in supporting Nigeria’s energy security while contributing to the country’s industrialisation and economic growth.

Beyond Nigeria, with pan-Africanists, and with our Africapitalism investment philosophy, we see opportunities to expand our footprint across Africa, leveraging our experience in turning around underperforming assets and our commitment to responsible, sustainable operations. We are looking at opportunities where we can bring our expertise to bear, working with partners who share our long-term view of Africa’s energy potential.

Globally, we are positioning Heirs Energies to align with the evolving energy landscape by investing in technology, efficiency, and sustainability, ensuring we remain competitive as the industry transforms.

Our goal is to be a reference point for what indigenous African companies can achieve in the energy sector, building a business that reflects Africa’s potential while operating to global standards.

Source: Crude Reports

Michael Walter In News & Press Releases, Press-release

Heirs Energies CEO to Advocate for Africa’s Energy Sufficiency At The 2024 U.S.-Africa Energy Forum

Lagos, Nigeria – 4th August 2025 – Heirs Energies, Africa’s largest indigenous-owned integrated energy company, has announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Osa Igiehon, will represent the company at the 2025 U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF), taking place on August 6–7, 2025 at the Post Oak Hotel in Houston, Texas.

The Forum will bring together U.S. and African policymakers, financiers, and private sector leaders to discuss investment, innovation, and partnerships shaping Africa’s evolving energy landscape. Osa will deliver an Executive Insight and participate in the Explorers Town Hall session, sharing Heirs Energies’ perspective on how Africa can unlock its full energy potential responsibly and sustainably.

Heirs Energies’ participation will spotlight its bold agenda: driving Africa’s transition from energy deficiency to energy sufficiency. With operations spanning across the Oil and Gas value chain, the company is investing in infrastructure and innovation to deliver reliable energy for homes, industries, and communities.

“At Heirs Energies, we believe Africa’s exploration future will be written in two stories: frontier plays waiting to be unlocked, and brownfield excellence – the careful stewardship of fields that have been producing for decades,” said Osa Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies. “Our focus is to show that African-owned companies can responsibly manage these assets, apply world-class standards, and deliver shared prosperity.”

Underpinning this approach is the Africapitalism philosophy of Heirs Holdings, Heirs Energies’ parent company – the belief that the private sector must lead Africa’s development by investing for both economic and social returns. At the Forum, Heirs Energies will demonstrate how this principle translates into tangible action: responsible brownfield management, gas monetization, and partnerships that empower local capacity while attracting global collaboration.

The company is also advancing gas commercialisation efforts, supplying gas to three power plants in Eastern Nigeria, while steadily building the infrastructure to further support Nigeria’s electrification drive.

“Every molecule must count – not just for production, but for powering homes, fueling industry, and setting a benchmark for what indigenous operators can achieve,” Igiehon added.

The U.S.-Africa Energy Forum will focus on creating an enabling environment for investment across hydrocarbons, gas, and renewables. Heirs Energies’ participation signals its commitment to partnerships that can deliver energy security for Africa while aligning with global sustainability goals

Heirs Energies Limited is Africa’s leading indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals.  Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads in the evolving energy landscape and contribute to a more prosperous Africa.

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