Sahara Group has appointed Folake Soetan as the new Managing Director of Arahas Global Oilfield Services, effective July 1, 2026.
The appointment is part of Sahara Group’s “Beyond XXX” agenda, which focuses on deepening impact, strengthening operational excellence, and advancing sustainable energy delivery across Africa.
Commenting on the appointment, Sahara Group Executive Director, Adedeji Odunsi, highlighted Soetan’s track record and the strategic importance of the role. “Our focus is on building future-ready platforms anchored on strong leadership, clear strategy, and disciplined execution. Folake’s appointment reflects our commitment to empowering leaders who can translate ambition into measurable outcomes across our energy ecosystem.”
Odunsi added that Soetan’s responsibilities will extend beyond Arahas to include expanded roles within the Sahara Power Group. This dual mandate aims to drive stronger integration between the group’s upstream oil and gas operations and its power business for greater efficiency and sustainable energy solutions.
Reacting to her appointment, Folake Soetan expressed excitement about the opportunity: “Arahas represents a bold and timely opportunity to redefine how oilfield services are delivered across Africa, anchored on innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. I am excited to work with the team to build a high-performance platform that strengthens the integration of our Beyond XXX agenda and shapes a more resilient energy landscape for the continent.”
Soetan is a seasoned energy sector leader with decades of experience spanning power, midstream and downstream oil and gas, and aviation. She previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Ikeja Electric, where she successfully led operational transformation, improved performance, and strengthened stakeholder engagement in one of Africa’s largest electricity distribution companies.
In her new role at Arahas, she will focus on expanding value-driven oilfield services, enhancing operational reliability, and supporting partners across the energy value chain, while advancing innovation and sustainability.
The appointment aligns with Sahara Group’s aggressive upstream expansion plans. In 2025, the group announced ambitions to grow crude oil production to 350,000 barrels per day within five years through enhanced exploration, improved execution, and the acquisition of seven new drilling rigs via its upstream arm, Asharami Energy.
This leadership move underscores Sahara Group’s commitment to building a competitive, Africa-focused oilfield services platform.
