…Abiola Lukman Lawal appointed to drive infrastructure and energy collaboration
The African Energy Chamber (AEC) has announced the appointment of Abiola Lukman Lawal, Chairman of Digital Connect Infrastructure & Telecom (DCIT), as its newest Board Member. Lawal brings more than 30 years of experience across oil and gas, infrastructure, telecommunications, and aviation sectors.
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AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk said: “The African Energy Industry is honoured to welcome Abiola Lukman Lawal to our Board of Directors. He knows how to turnaround companies with his very data driven and pragmatic leadership approach. His ability to connect infrastructure development, energy innovation and commercial strategy across both the public and private sectors makes him an invaluable addition to our leadership. Lawal’s appointment comes at a critical time as we accelerate investment, technology deployment and inclusive growth across Africa’s energy value chain.”
Partnership expands renewable energy connectivity
Lawal’s appointment comes shortly after DCIT announced a partnership with U.S.-based Vanu Inc. to launch solar-powered mobile network sites in underserved Nigerian communities. The initiative combines Vanu’s low-power, off-grid systems with DCIT’s infrastructure expertise to deliver renewable energy-based connectivity.
Proof-of-concept sites are already operational, with plans for expansion within Nigeria and into other African markets. The partnership aims to address both connectivity gaps and energy access challenges in rural regions, representing a shift towards integrating energy and telecoms infrastructure.
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Record at Eterna PLC
Before leading DCIT, Lawal served as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Eterna PLC. He oversaw one of Nigeria’s significant downstream energy recoveries, including the delivery of the Joint User Hydrant Installation 2 – the largest airside aviation fuel depot in Nigeria – at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The facility, with a capacity of 15 million litres, is now a major asset in West Africa’s aviation fuel infrastructure.
In the 2024 financial year, Eterna returned to profitability after a N12 billion loss in 2023. The company recorded a projected 27% revenue growth, a 166% rise in operating profit for the first half of 2024, and a 117% year-to-date share price increase, making it one of the top performers on the Nigerian Exchange.
During his tenure, Lawal also drove investments in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG), positioning Eterna for greater resilience in changing market conditions.
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Industry leadership
Lawal was named one of BusinessDay’s Top 25 CEOs in Nigeria for 2024. His previous roles include Deputy Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer at Eroton Exploration & Production, Executive Director at Oando Gas & Power, and Group Chief Strategy Officer at Oando Plc. He contributed to Oando’s downstream-to-upstream expansion strategy, strengthening its role in the African energy market.
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Role at the African Energy Chamber
As a member of the AEC Board, Lawal will support efforts to create a results-focused business environment and promote private sector-led energy development in Africa. His work will focus on cross-border collaboration, infrastructure-led growth, and reducing energy poverty.
The Chamber aims to unite leaders who can link infrastructure development, technological innovation, and commercial growth to advance Africa’s energy future.
