Historic Milestone as Elohor Aiboni Becomes First Nigerian Woman to Lead Shell Nigeria

Effective August 1, 2026, Aiboni will become the first Nigerian and the first woman to occupy the combined role of Executive Vice President and Country Chair in Shell Nigeria’s more than six decades of operations.

She succeeds Marno de Jong, who is set to retire after a distinguished 34-year career with Shell, including six years at the helm of the company’s Nigerian operations.

Aiboni brings over 24 years of experience within the Shell Group, having built an impressive career across both onshore and offshore businesses in Nigeria. Her expertise also spans international assignments in Kazakhstan and Brunei, where she contributed to key operational and strategic projects.

In 2021, she made history as the first female Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo). During her tenure, the company achieved a major milestone with the production of its one billionth barrel of oil from the Bonga field in 2023. She was later assigned to Brunei in 2024, where she oversaw production activities and project delivery.

Commenting on her appointment, Aiboni expressed enthusiasm about returning to lead Shell’s operations in Nigeria and reaffirmed her commitment to building on the achievements of her predecessor.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to continue contributing to the efficient delivery of Shell’s business in Nigeria and thereby power progress in a country where we have been present for more than 60 years. Marno has led with his heart over the past six years, sustaining operations and breaking new ground in project delivery and growth. It is a legacy I am keen to build on,” she said.

Her appointment is being viewed as a significant step for diversity and leadership representation in Nigeria’s energy sector, while also reflecting Shell’s confidence in local talent to drive the company’s next phase of growth and innovation.