Axxela Limited, a leading gas and power portfolio company in sub-Saharan Africa, recently made headlines with the official retirement of its long-serving Chief Executive Officer, Bolaji Osunsanya. After over two decades of exceptional service and a notable career spanning more than 35 years, Osunsanya stepped down after reaching the age of 60. His departure marks the end of a significant era for Axxela, during which the company underwent remarkable growth and expansion under his guidance. In a company statement released by Omolara Shitu, the Corporate Communications Manager, the significance of Osunsanya’s impact on Axxela’s trajectory was vividly highlighted, capturing the essence of his leadership and the legacy he leaves behind.
The Board Chairman of Axxela, Boye Olusanya, expressed profound gratitude towards the outgoing CEO for his visionary leadership, passion, and commitment to the company. Bolaji Osunsanya’s tenure saw Axxela not only achieve tremendous growth but also contribute to the industrialization of the region and the emergence of several industries. The chairman acknowledged that Osunsanya’s efforts paved the way for Axxela’s expansion into new regional markets, reinforcing the positive transformation that occurred during his leadership. As the company bids farewell to its pioneer chief executive, well-wishes for success in his future endeavors were extended, marking a significant moment in Axxela’s history.
In a farewell statement, Osunsanya reflected on his journey at Axxela, expressing gratitude towards the board, management, staff, and business stakeholders for their unwavering support. He took pride in the collective achievements that propelled Axxela to a leading position within the industry, emphasizing that these accomplishments were the result of the remarkable talent and contributions from the Axxela team. His acknowledgment of the company’s growth trajectory underlines the collaborative spirit that drove Axxela’s success, leaving an optimistic outlook for the future as new leadership takes the helm.
Transitioning into this new chapter, Axxela appointed Ogbemi Ofuya as the new Group Chief Executive Officer, a decision that was likely met with anticipation by stakeholders. Ofuya’s ascent comes at a critical juncture for the organization, as he brings extensive experience from his previous roles, including his capacity as a partner at Helios Investment Partners, an Africa-focused private equity firm. With nearly two decades of experience in the oil and gas and energy infrastructure sectors, Ofuya’s background positions him well to navigate Axxela’s future direction, implementing strategies that will further fortify its status as a leader in the energy sector.
Responding to his appointment, Ofuya conveyed his honor and commitment to leading Axxela, especially during this transformative period. He recognized the solid foundation laid by Bolaji Osunsanya and expressed enthusiasm for building upon it. Promising a strategic vision for Axxela’s future, Ofuya committed to steering the company toward greater achievements in alignment with the evolving energy landscape. His understanding of Axxela’s business, gleaned from extensive industry experience, adds a layer of confidence in his ability to advance the company’s goals and seize emerging opportunities.
To ensure a smooth transition, Osunsanya will work closely with Ofuya until December 2024 to facilitate the ongoing enterprise re-organization. This partnership is designed to maintain continuity and stability during the leadership change and is expected to reinforce Axxela’s strategic roadmap. Following this transitional period, Osunsanya will remain involved in an advisory capacity as a non-executive director on Axxela’s board, indicating a seamless blend of legacy and innovation that Axxela aims to uphold. With strong leadership in place and clearly articulated objectives for the future, Axxela Limited appears poised to continue its trajectory of growth and influence in the gas and power sectors across sub-Saharan Africa.
