"At some point, when the time is right, we will take further steps into the electricity space," Brown stated. He emphasized that Seplat's vision includes implementing modular solutions to bring power closer to remote, underserved areas. The company is specifically exploring modular gas-to-power systems designed for deployment in rural regions, which are expected to play a crucial role in addressing last-mile electricity access challenges.
Brown highlighted Seplat Energy's commitment to transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape, setting new benchmarks for indigenous operators in Africa. He proudly noted that the company's recent acquisition of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited assets has significantly bolstered its position. This strategic acquisition is set to redefine Nigeria's gas future through a blend of integration, innovation, and a strong commitment to inclusive national development.
With this acquisition, Seplat's operational footprint has substantially expanded. The company is now active in 11 blocks, operating eight of them directly, including seven onshore and four shallow-water offshore blocks. This expansion led to the formation of Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited, which now manages operations seamlessly connected to three terminals—one offshore and two onshore.
"This gives us a fully integrated value chain—from the wellhead all the way to export via vessel—with Seplat in full control of operations," Brown explained. He added that the company's production has seen a material increase, leaping from around 50,000 barrels per day to over 120,000 barrels per day. Seplat's workforce has also grown significantly to approximately 1,500 professionals, predominantly Nigerians.
A key focus for Seplat is the extraordinary gas resource within its offshore blocks. While not all of it is currently classified as proven reserves, Brown estimates the actual volumes to be three times what is currently being reported. This vast gas reserve is earmarked to be instrumental in feeding domestic power generation, supporting industrial uses such as fertilizer and petrochemical production, and contributing to both Nigerian LNG and new floating LNG initiatives.
Brown stressed that this expansion presents a significant opportunity for Nigeria, as the company moves into a new phase of energy autonomy. He emphasized that the focus is shifting beyond merely exporting oil and gas; it's about building domestic capacity that fosters job creation, industrialization, and long-term economic resilience. Seplat’s strategy remains firmly concentrated on meeting Nigeria’s specific energy needs.
"You must tailor your energy strategy to where you operate," Brown asserted. He pointed out that Nigeria grapples with some of the lowest levels of energy access globally, making affordable, reliable energy essential for economic development, job creation, manufacturing, education, and healthcare. For Nigeria's base load electricity, gas is presented as the optimal solution, offering 24/7, 365-day availability.
While Seplat Energy harbors ambitions in renewables and electricity generation, Brown concluded by stating that for the foreseeable future, the biggest opportunities and greatest needs lie in upstream oil and gas and midstream gas processing. This highlights the company's pragmatic approach to addressing Nigeria's energy challenges by leveraging its core strengths while laying the groundwork for future diversification into the power sector.