Arahas Global Oilfield Services has appointed renowned energy executive Folake Soetan as its new Managing Director, marking a major step in the company’s strategy to transform oilfield services delivery across Africa. The appointment, which takes effect from July 1, 2026, is expected to strengthen the firm’s ambition of becoming a leading force in the continent’s energy sector through innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth.
The indigenous oilfield services company, backed by Sahara Group, said the move aligns with its broader Beyond XXX agenda aimed at deepening impact, improving operational excellence, and shaping the future of energy across Africa. Sahara Group Executive Director, Adedeji Odunsi, described Soetan’s appointment as a reflection of the organisation’s commitment to building future-ready businesses driven by strong leadership, strategic vision, and measurable results.
According to the company, Soetan assumes leadership at a critical period for Arahas as it seeks to redefine oilfield services across the energy value chain. Her role will focus on delivering high-impact, value-driven solutions for partners and stakeholders while strengthening the company’s position as a globally competitive platform built on African expertise, engineering excellence, and operational reliability. The strategy is expected to help optimise production, extend asset life, and improve operational certainty throughout the energy lifecycle.
Beyond her responsibilities at Arahas, Soetan will also take on expanded duties within the Sahara Power Group. Drawing from her extensive experience in the electricity sector, particularly her successful tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Ikeja Electric, she is expected to help strengthen operational frameworks, improve collaboration across business units, and support the delivery of more reliable energy solutions. Sahara Group believes the dual role will create stronger integration between its upstream and power businesses, unlocking efficiencies that support sustainable energy development across the continent.
Expressing her excitement about the appointment, Soetan described Arahas as a timely opportunity to reshape oilfield services in Africa through innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. With leadership experience spanning the midstream, downstream, power, and airline sectors across Nigeria and Ghana, she brings a wealth of expertise to the role. Industry observers view her appointment as a significant move that could accelerate Arahas’ growth ambitions and reinforce its commitment to building a more resilient and competitive energy landscape for Africa.
source: leadership
