Seplat Energy Plc, a leading Nigerian energy company, has once again demonstrated its commitment to gender equity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) at the Society of Petroleum Engineers Women Leadership Lecture Series (SPEWLLS) 2025. Held at the Capital Club in Victoria Island, Lagos, the event, themed “March Forward: Advancing Equity and Creating Opportunities in STEM and Beyond,” brought together industry leaders, changemakers, and young professionals to advocate for greater female representation in STEM fields.
The keynote address was delivered by Eleanor Adarelegebe, Chief Financial Officer of Seplat Energy, who highlighted the persistent gender disparities in the oil and gas sector. She noted that women currently occupy only 15% of junior-level positions, with even fewer advancing to leadership roles. “At Seplat Energy, we are actively addressing these gaps through mentorship and sponsorship programs designed to support women at the early to mid-levels of their careers,” Adarelegebe stated. She emphasised the company’s progress, citing the presence of five women on its 14-member board and four women in its 12-person senior management team as evidence of the success of its initiatives.
Adarelegebe also stressed the importance of collective action in driving gender diversity. “It requires the commitment of everyone, particularly those in leadership—both men and women—to ensure a more inclusive and innovative industry,” she said. Her remarks set the tone for a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring prominent industry voices, including Chioma Afe, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs and Social Performance.
Afe underscored the need to inspire young girls to pursue STEM education and provide visible role models to guide them. “Innovation thrives in environments that embrace diverse perspectives,” she said. “To build a truly inclusive industry, we must start advocacy at the foundational level, encouraging young girls in basic education to explore STEM pathways.” She also addressed the critical role of male allyship in breaking cultural barriers, noting that men in leadership positions must actively support women’s advancement. “Women must also develop the competence needed to break these barriers,” she added.
Afe highlighted Seplat Energy’s proactive measures to promote gender equity, including the Seplat Women Awesome Network, a mentorship platform for female professionals, and the company’s target of 40% female participation in its undergraduate scholarship program. She also spoke about the Seplat Teachers’ Empowerment Programme, which has trained over 1,300 educators, with 60% of beneficiaries being women in Delta and Edo states. Afe concluded by celebrating a historic milestone: the appointment of Seplat’s first female Managing Director for its Eastern Asset.
The event concluded with a resounding ovation for Seplat Energy’s unwavering commitment to advancing women in STEM. As the official sponsor of SPEWLLS 2025, Seplat Energy continues to lead the charge in fostering inclusion, innovation, and a more equitable future in STEM. The company’s efforts serve as a model for the industry, demonstrating that gender equity is not only a moral imperative but also a driver of innovation and growth.