In the intricate web of Nigeria's oil and gas landscape, one name stands out as a beacon of excellence and innovation – Engineer Afolabi, Abiodun Folorunso. With almost three decades of unwavering dedication to the industry, his contributions have reshaped operational paradigms and propelled Nigeria's oil and gas sector into new realms of efficiency and sustainability.

A Journey of Excellence

Afolabi's journey commenced with a solid foundation in Chemical Engineering from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where he distinguished himself as the best student of his department. His academic prowess earned him a scholarship from Shell, a testament to his exceptional promise even in his formative years.

Equipped with his academic laurels, Afolabi traversed diverse realms of petroleum engineering, further honing his expertise with a Postgraduate Diploma from Heriot Watt University. His thirst for knowledge and innovation led him to be conferred with honorary Doctorates – a Doctor of Science from the European American University and a Doctor of Business Management from the London School of Graduate.

Pioneering Leadership

Afolabi's illustrious career is a tapestry woven with leadership milestones and transformative projects. His tenure as the Managing Director of Seplat West Ltd., a subsidiary of Seplat Petroleum Development Plc, epitomized his ability to navigate complexities and drive monumental change.

Under his stewardship, Seplat's Western Asset experienced a renaissance, marked by cultural shifts, advanced water management techniques, and relentless pursuit of operational excellence. Afolabi spearheaded initiatives to extend the lifespan of ageing fields, implementing robust asset integrity management strategies that ensured sustained productivity.

Innovative Projects and Strategic Acquisitions

Afolabi's legacy is etched in the successful execution of groundbreaking projects that reshaped industry standards. His leadership in the elimination of fugitive emissions set new benchmarks for environmental stewardship, earning accolades for Seplat as a top-tier industry player.

Furthermore, his strategic acumen was instrumental in orchestrating the acquisition of two Oil Mining Leases (OMLs), expanding Seplat's footprint and bolstering its resource portfolio. Afolabi's visionary approach to partnerships maximized asset utilization, generating substantial revenue streams while fortifying Seplat's position as a cornerstone of Nigeria's oil and gas sector.

Champion of Technological Advancement

Afolabi's commitment to innovation is exemplified by his role in pioneering technological advancements in well engineering and reservoir management. From smart well implementations to optimized flowline manifolds, his initiatives have revolutionized production methodologies, unlocking new frontiers of efficiency and productivity.

As a subject matter expert in stimulation and gas lift techniques, Afolabi's knowledge-sharing initiatives have empowered countless professionals, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence within the industry.

Awards and Accolades

Afolabi's contributions have been lauded with prestigious awards and recognitions throughout his career. From the Shell Performance Share Global Award to the Shell Petroleum International Vice President Award of Excellence, his achievements bear testimony to his unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.

His dedication to mentorship and coaching earned him the title of Best Coach and Mentor in Shell Petroleum Development Company, further underscoring his role as a guiding force in nurturing talent and driving organizational success.

A Vision for the Future

As the current Managing Director of Tulcan Energy Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, Afolabi continues to chart new frontiers, leading the development of marginal fields with a focus on sustainable growth and operational excellence. His visionary leadership, coupled with a relentless pursuit of innovation, ensures that his legacy remains indelibly imprinted on Nigeria's oil and gas industry for generations to come.

In the annals of Nigeria's oil and gas history, Engineer Afolabi, Abiodun Folorunso's name will forever be synonymous with excellence, leadership, and transformative change. His journey is not just a testament to personal achievement but a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation that defines Nigeria's energy landscape.