TheCable

Benedict Peters, founder of Aiteo Group, has been named Africa’s oil and gas leader of the year at the Forbes Best of Africa Gala.

The award, according tot he organisers, is an acknowledgement of Peters’ significant contribution to oil and gas development in Africa “by visionary leadership, distinguished service and transformational realignment “.

The gala was held at the Forber headquarters in New York City on September 27, 2018

Mike Perlis, CEO and vice-chairman of Forbes Media said: “Recipients are singled out for their work in bringing prosperity to all 55 countries of the African continent.”

Paul H. Trustfull, editor of Emerging Markets for Forbes: “Peters’ ascendancyin Africa’s Oil and Gas sector has been exemplary as well as revolutionary. His company, Aiteo, has thrived for about two decades – going from a downstream start-up to becoming a leading integrated energy conglomerate with strategic investments in hydrocarbon (or commodities) exploration and production.

“Peters reinvented himself in times of great personal challenge. He resurrected his identity and reputation while battling injustice. He proves that inspirational leadership in a difficult industry is possible.”

The Aiteo Group founder dedicated the award to all Aiteo employees worldwide.

He said: “The acknowledgement by Forbes as Oil and Gas Leader of 2018 is inspiring. It means a lot to me and the entire Aiteo Group. I am delighted that the International community recognises our contribution towards Africa’s self-sufficiency in energy and our aspiration to become a reference point for indigenous capacity in oil and gas.

“This award motivates us to broaden our vision for the continent,despite all odds, and accelerate her economic transformation. We believe that Africa has what it takes to lead the world and we will continue to push the frontiers of development through our investments in people and technology. The success of our Oil and Gas Upstream subsidiary proves that the future we envision in Africa rests to a large extent in the hands of Africans.”

Aiteo is currently the highest producing indigenous oil E&P company in Nigeria.