It’s been a little over 90 days since Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd officially took the reins of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC) from Shell, in one of the most consequential energy transitions in recent African history. In that short span of time, the change in ownership has proven to be far more than a mere corporate transaction — it’s the beginning of a bold new era. A renaissance in the truest sense.
A Purpose Reignited
Tony Attah, the former CEO of Nigeria LNG Ltd, has returned from retirement, not to reprise a past role but to embrace a future mission: leading Renaissance Africa with purpose, passion, and a renewed sense of service. His return underscores a deeper narrative — this isn’t just about leadership; it’s about stewardship.
“I stepped out of retirement to help shape Africa’s energy landscape,”
Attah said in a recent statement, “decisively tackling energy poverty in order to unlock economic prosperity for our continent.”
This sentiment reflects the ethos of Renaissance Africa Energy: a company born not only to generate energy but to be a force for economic transformation, social empowerment, and environmental stewardship.
A Bold New Chapter for Africa
The acquisition of SPDC by Renaissance Africa is more than a business milestone. It is a pivotal moment in Africa’s quest for energy independence. Shell’s departure after decades of operations in Nigeria leaves a legacy of both progress and challenges. Now, Renaissance steps in to rewrite the story — this time with Africa in the driver’s seat.
For Nigeria and the broader continent, this means greater local ownership, deeper regional alignment, and a chance to harness energy resources for African solutions. Renaissance’s emergence signifies a critical shift in perspective: from extraction to empowerment, from profit-driven to purpose-led.
“Our Vision,” Attah explains, “is to become Africa’s leading energy company, enabling energy security and industrialisation in a sustainable manner.”
The ABC of Renaissance
At the heart of Renaissance lies its DNA — Ambition, Belief, and Courage. These three qualities form the foundation upon which the company stands and aspires to build.
Ambition to become a continental leader in energy, innovating for both urban centres and rural communities.
Belief in Africa’s ability to shape its own energy destiny, develop indigenous solutions, and power its industries with pride.
Courage to take on some of the most complex challenges in the sector — from infrastructure gaps to regulatory complexities, all while staying rooted in local communities and values.
This triumvirate of values fuels Renaissance’s vision for a future where Africa doesn’t just consume energy but owns and directs the value chain.
Guided by CRISP Values
The path forward won’t be without obstacles, but Renaissance has clearly defined the principles it will rely on. The company’s CRISP core values — Collaboration, Respect, Integrity, Safety, and Performance — serve as a moral and operational compass.
Whether it’s forming local partnerships, managing community relations, or ensuring world-class safety standards, CRISP will underpin every decision and every action. It’s a declaration that Renaissance isn’t just another oil company; it is a next-generation African energy company — one that understands the importance of both people and planet.
Early Wins and National Support
Renaissance’s efforts are already being recognised. Notably, it was awarded the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) International Upstream Operator of the Year, a sign of early validation for its approach.
Additionally, new partnerships are forming, operations are ramping up, and confidence is building — both within the organization and across the industry.
This remarkable journey has also received strong political and institutional backing. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the acquisition deal is testament to the Nigerian government’s commitment to localising ownership and accelerating industrialisation through energy.
Attah extended his gratitude to President Tinubu and to all stakeholders who made the transition possible: “I am deeply grateful… without their courage and resilience, this Renaissance would stand no chance.”
Energy as the Engine of Economic Growth
Africa’s economic potential remains largely untapped — not because of lack of ideas or ambition, but because of limited energy access.
Today, over 600 million people in Africa still lack reliable electricity. This energy poverty stalls development, impedes education, and cripples health systems.
Renaissance’s mission is to reverse this trend.
Energy, in this context, becomes more than fuel — it becomes freedom. The freedom to innovate, to industrialise, to educate, and to elevate communities out of poverty.
By focusing on energy security, Renaissance is setting the stage for widespread socioeconomic upliftment. Powering homes and industries means unlocking productivity, employment, and long-term economic stability.
The road ahead is long, but the destination — a self-sufficient, industrialised, and empowered Africa — is now in sight.
A Movement, Not Just a Company
“We are Renaissance!” — this rallying cry isn’t just branding; it’s a movement. One that seeks to mobilise Africans around a common purpose: to own and shape their energy destiny, with the courage to lead and the belief in a better tomorrow.
As Attah puts it, “It’s time for Africa, and together, let’s unleash the true economic potential of the continent through energy security for a sustainable future.”
Join the Conversation
As this journey unfolds, Renaissance is calling on individuals, institutions, and thought leaders to participate in shaping Africa’s energy discourse. Your insights, critiques, and collaborations are not only welcomed but necessary.
Feel free to share your thoughts on energy as a catalyst for Africa’s economic growth.
