Sahara Group has appointed Folake Soetan as managing director of Arahas Global Oilfield Services, its oilfield services subsidiary, effective July 1, 2026, the energy and infrastructure conglomerate said.
Soetan, former Chief Executive of Ikeja Electric, one of Nigeria’s largest electricity distribution companies, will also take on expanded responsibilities within Sahara Power Group, the company said, in a move it described as an effort to integrate its upstream and power businesses, and accelerate its Beyond XXX agenda focused on deepening impact, advancing operational excellence, and shaping the future of energy across Africa.
Sahara Group Executive Director Adedeji Odunsi said the appointment reflects the company’s push to strengthen leadership across its energy portfolio.
“Our focus is on building future-ready platforms anchored on strong leadership, clear strategy, and disciplined execution,” he said.
Arahas provides integrated oilfield services including production optimisation and asset-life extension. Odunsi said Soetan’s dual mandate is intended to create closer links between Sahara’s upstream and power operations, though the company did not disclose specific targets, timelines or financial details tied to the integration effort.
Soetan has previously held leadership roles across Nigeria and Ghana’s midstream, downstream, power and airline sectors.
At Ikeja Electric, she oversaw operational and organisational changes and customer-focused initiatives during her tenure as CEO, according to Sahara Group.
“Arahas represents a bold and timely opportunity to redefine how oilfield services are delivered across Africa,” Soetan said of her new role.
Sahara Group operates across the energy value chain in more than a dozen African countries, with interests spanning upstream, midstream, downstream and power generation.
