Winifred Akpani is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Northwest Petroleum and Gas Company Limited, a leading Nigerian downstream oil and gas company. As a seasoned accountant, entrepreneur, and corporate leader, Winifred Akpani has built a reputation for financial discipline, operational excellence, and strategic growth within one of Africa’s most complex and competitive industries. Her leadership reflects a commitment to building resilient enterprises that contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s energy and economic landscape.
Winifred Akpani’s professional journey is rooted in a strong foundation in finance and accounting. She began her career at KPMG, where she developed expertise in auditing, financial advisory, and corporate governance. Her experience working with major multinational clients provided her with the technical depth and strategic insight that would later define her leadership approach. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and holds an MBA from Lagos Business School, reflecting her commitment to continuous professional development and excellence.
In 1998, Winifred Akpani founded Northwest Petroleum and Gas Company Limited, positioning it as a key player in Nigeria’s downstream oil and gas sector. Under her leadership, the company has grown into a significant distributor of petroleum products, with a strong presence across Nigeria. Her ability to navigate regulatory complexities, manage large scale operations, and maintain financial integrity has been central to the company’s sustained growth and stability over the years.
Beyond her role at Northwest Petroleum, Winifred Akpani has contributed to corporate governance and institutional leadership through board appointments across various sectors. She serves as a Non Executive Director at Airtel Africa Plc, bringing her financial expertise to one of the continent’s leading telecommunications companies. Her influence extends into policy and industry conversations, where she advocates for stronger governance, transparency, and sustainable business practices.
Winifred Akpani’s contributions have earned her recognition within Nigeria’s business and financial community. She has been listed among the most influential women in business and has received multiple industry accolades for her leadership and impact in the oil and gas sector. These recognitions reflect a career defined by resilience, integrity, and consistent value creation.
Looking ahead, Winifred Akpani remains focused on strengthening Northwest Petroleum’s market position while contributing to broader conversations around energy sustainability, governance, and economic growth. Her vision is anchored in building institutions that endure, creating value across sectors, and empowering the next generation of African business leaders. Through disciplined leadership and strategic foresight, she continues to shape the future of enterprise in Nigeria’s energy sector.
