Winifred Akpani’s journey in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector is a testament to the transformative power of vision, resilience, and innovation. With over 29 years of postgraduate experience, she has built an impressive career that spans accounting, entrepreneurship, and leadership, redefining industry standards and paving the way for indigenous companies to thrive. A graduate of Mathematics from the University of Benin with a postgraduate diploma in Computer Science from the University of Lagos, Akpani is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA) and an Associate Member of the Institute of Directors.
Her career began at Oni Lasebikan & Co. (now Ernst & Young) as a Trainee Accountant, followed by a significant stint at Arthur Andersen & Co. (now KPMG), where she became a Chartered Accountant in 1990. In 1992, Akpani transitioned to the oil marketing sector as Finance Controller at Flame Petroleum & Gas Company Limited. Her ascent in the industry culminated in 1998 when she founded Northwest Petroleum & Gas Company Limited, a firm that began with modest ambitions but has grown into a leading player in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
Under Akpani’s stewardship, Northwest Petroleum has evolved from supplying diesel in 200-litre drums to managing over 100 million litres in storage capacity and operating mega filling stations across the nation. The company’s portfolio extends to trading, storage, and supply of crude oil and refined products, reflecting Akpani’s strategic vision to establish a competitive and responsible organization. In addition to her role at Northwest Petroleum, Akpani holds directorial positions at Millennium Oil and Gas Company Limited and Northwest Energy Nigeria Limited, companies focused on exploration and production. Her interests also span banking, tourism, and financial solutions, underscoring her versatility as a business leader.
Beyond corporate achievements, Akpani serves as the Chairman of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), where she advocates for policies that foster economic growth and stability in the downstream sector. A staunch supporter of education and societal transformation, Akpani’s contributions have earned her notable recognition, including the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal, awarded by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009 for distinguished service to the Catholic Church and humanity.
