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Seplat Energy

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FY2020 Annual Report · Seplat Energy
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Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc 
Annual Report and Accounts 2020

POWERING
NIGERIA’S 
ENERGY
TRANSITION

10Coping with Covid: How Seplat responded  

to the challenges of a global pandemic  
and maintained business continuity while  
helping our host communities. 

Resilience and strength  
Seplat delivered a robust performance in 2020, within 
the guidance we set, despite the unprecedented 
shocks of the Covid-19 pandemic that tragically 
claimed more than a million lives. Never before have 
energy companies experienced a market in which 
demand and prices fell so quickly, nor have they 
faced such a stark realisation that the market may 
never be the same again. Our continued resilience, 
proven in crises past, is possible because of our 
prudent approach to financial management, our 
careful management of risk and our considered 
approach to capital allocation. Despite the crises 
of 2020, we were able to increase investment, repay 
debt and honour our commitment to shareholders 
in the form of a $0.10 dividend for the year.

Highlights

Group production  
within guidance 

51,183boepd

Liquids contribution  
from Eland 

8,855bopd

Gas for Nigeria's  
domestic market

101MMscfd

Revenues impacted  
by Covid-19

$530.5m

Unit cost per boe  
including Eland assets

$8.90

Loss before tax, after  
non-cash impairments

$80.2m

Capital investment  
increased

$150.1m

Cash at bank after $100m 
voluntary loan repayment

$258.7m

Net debt steady

$440m

Dividend per share  
maintained

$0.10 

12 New CEO Roger Brown 

talks about taking over in  
a pandemic and what we 
can expect from Seplat in 
the future. 

Seplat is committed to  
being a best practice 
operator and a responsible 
and accountable corporate 
citizen as demonstrated  
in the approach to  
our operations.

58

42

Find out more about  
our four point oil value 
creation strategy.

Strategic report 

At a glance 
Chairman’s statement 
Building a resilient business  
Coping with Covid  
Chief Executive Officer’s interview 
Strategy 
Value creation 
Key performance indicators 
Additional performance metrics 
Risk management 
Principal risks and uncertainties 
Operational overview 
Value creation strategy 
Financial review 
Corporate social responsibility 

50

How we are diversifying  
our production base and 
exploring or creating new 
export routes over which  
we have more control.

Governance 

Chairman’s overview 
Board of Directors 
Corporate governance report 
Board Committee reports 
Directors’ remuneration report 
Report of the Directors 
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 
Audit Committee’s report  
Statement of Corporate Responsibility  

Financial statements 

145

Independent auditors’ report  
Consolidated statement of profit  
or loss and other comprehensive income 
Consolidated statement of financial position 
Consolidated statement of changes in equity 
Consolidated statement of cash flows 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements 
Separate statement of profit or loss  
and other comprehensive income 
Separate statement of financial position 
Separate statement of changes in equity 
Separate statement of cash flows 
Notes to the separate financial statements 

146

149
151
152
154
155

238
239
240
242
243

145 Our financial statements and 

related notes and reports.

Additional information  

Payments to governments (unaudited) 
Notice of eighth Annual General Meeting 
Unclaimed dividend list 
General information 
Glossary of terms 

2 

2
4
8
10
12
16
18
20
22
24
30
37
42
52
58

78

80
82
87
96
113
137
142
143
144

294

295
296
298
306
307

1

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
Seplat at a glance

Polobo

OML 40

Sibiri
Opuama

Abiala

Gbetiokun

Onitsha

OML 4

Oben

Okwefe

Mosogar

Okporhuru

OML 41

Sapele

Ubaleme

Amukpe

Ovhor

Okoporo

Orogho

OML 38

 Escravos

Warri

 Forcados

Umuseti (Pillar)

Jisike

OPL 283

Igbuku (Pillar)

OML 53

Ohaji  
South

Owerri

Iheoma

Odinma

Emeabiam

Alaoma

Omerelu

Owu

Ubima

Port Harcourt

Krakama

OML 55

Soku

Nembe

Dama

Robert Kiri

Ke

Belema

 Brass

Akaso

Bonny

Inda

 Bonny

NIGERIA’S  
ENERGY LEADER

Seplat is Nigeria’s leading indigenous, 
independent oil and gas producer, with 
a working interest production of nearly 
34,000 barrels a day of liquids for export 
and 101MMscfd of processed natural 
gas used for domestic power generation.

2

Seplat’s operating portfolio comprises seven 
oil and gas blocks in the prolific Niger Delta 
region of Nigeria, which we operate with 
partners including the Nigerian Government 
and other oil producers. We have a revenue 
interest in OML 55. We have a 465MMscfd 
gas processing plant at Oben, in OML4, 
we are upgrading our Sapele Gas Plant in 
OML 41 to 75MMscfd, and are building the 
300MMscfd ANOH Gas Processing Plant 
in OML53.

  Read more 
Page 37

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Average daily volume

51,183boepd

Liquids exported in 2020

12.3 million barrels

Gas supplied to Nigeria’s energy sector

36.9 billion cubic feet

PROUDLY NIGERIAN 
HOW WE BENEFIT OUR COUNTRY

Seplat’s oil generated foreign currency income of $380 million 
for Nigeria in 2020. On this, we paid $72.7 million royalties and 
a further $107 million in taxes and levies. These contributions 
support Nigeria’s economy, including its healthcare and  
educational systems and its creation of essential infrastructure.

At times, our gas powered up to 30% of Nigeria’s domestic grid 
in 2020 and by increasing gas production we can help to reduce 
Nigeria’s dependence on small-scale, costly and polluting 
generators. In addition, we spent $14.7 million supporting our 
host communities, focusing on jobs and business opportunities, 
security, medical and other assistance during the pandemic.

  Read more 
Page 295

101 
MMscfd

1,501Bscf 

33,714 
bopd

241MMbbl

Gas/ Production/2P reserves

Seplat’s gas business consists 
of gas fields and associated 
infrastructure in OML 4, 
which supports our Oben Gas 
Processing Plant, and OML 53, 
where our independent joint 
venture ANOH Gas Processing 
Company is building a 300MMscfd 
gas processing plant. 

Oil / Production/2P reserves

The ANOH plant is considered 
one of Nigeria’s most important 
strategic energy projects and 
will help Nigeria’s transition 
away from small-scale domestic 
and business generation. It is 
expected to produce first gas 
in 2022.

Seplat's oil portfolio was 
strengthened by the acquisition 
of Eland Oil and Gas Ltd, in 
December 2019, along with its 
interests in OML 40 and the 
Ubima field. Together they 
produced 26% of Group liquids 
in 2020.

  Read more 
Page 48

  Read more 
Page 44

Seplat is the 
investment partner  
of choice for Nigeria’s 
transition to cleaner 
energy production.

3

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Chairman’s statement

STRENGTH 
THROUGH 
EXPERIENCE 

Ambrosie Bryant Chukwueloka Orjiako (‘A.B.C.’)  
Non-Executive Chairman

We will be seeking your approval in 
this AGM to change our name from 
Seplat Petroleum Development 
Company Plc to Seplat Energy Plc. 
I believe this move reflects our 
intention to be at the forefront of 
Nigeria’s energy transition in the 
next decade of our journey.

4

Our ANOH Gas Processing 
Plant will be a major step 
forwards in Nigeria’s drive 
to reduce carbon emissions, 
replacing potentially millions  
of small-scale, inefficient,  
and polluting generators with 
cleaner utility-scale power 
generation fired by Nigerian 
natural gas.

Dear Shareholders
Our tenth year will be remembered as an 
extraordinary time, one full of challenge and 
change, not just for Seplat but for the entire 
global economy. The Covid-19 pandemic 
spread quickly across the world, forcing 
entire societies into lockdown, the new 
reality of “working from home” and serious 
economic downturns that naturally 
impacted demand for oil. 

But thanks to our prudent approach to 
managing our Company, I am pleased to 
report that Seplat has emerged from this 
crisis in robust health and prepared for an 
exciting future under its new leadership. 

Economic challenges of the 
Covid-19 pandemic 
The pandemic that emerged in the first 
quarter of the year was an unprecedented 
shock to the global economy, with 
consequent impact on the demand for 
oil and gas. 

Nigeria’s economy contracted by just 1.9% 
in 2020, proving more resilient than many 
other countries, such as the UK, which 
experienced a 10% fall as a result of the 
pandemic. Global GDP, according to IMF 
estimates, fell by 3.5%, as did the economy 
of the United States. 

The economic shock was reflected in lower 
demand for oil. The International Energy 
Agency, in its December 2020 Oil Market 
Report, predicted that daily demand would 
have fallen by 8.8MMbbl/day in 2020, to 
91.2MMbbl/day. Having started the year at 
US66/bbl, the price of Brent slid sharply as 
the scale of the pandemic and its necessary 
responses became clear. 

  Building a resilient business 
Page 8

  Coping with Covid 
Page 10

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020On 4 April, as a result of the Saudi-Russia 
supply war, it reached a low of almost $19 
before recovering to exit the year at $52/bbl, 
rising in the last few weeks in response to 
positive news about vaccines. Overall, Brent 
averaged $43 across 2020, compared to 
$64 in 2019.

The challenges were reflected in the 
performance of our shares, with the UK line 
opening the year at 127p, falling to 40p as the 
pandemic took hold, before recovering to 
65p at the end of the year. The Nigerian line 
opened at ₦658, reached a low of ₦282 and 
ended 2020 at ₦402. I am pleased to say that 
both lines have performed well so far 
in 2021. 

Board and management changes
At the end of July, as we celebrated the tenth 
anniversary of our founding, our Co-founder, 
Austin Avuru, stepped down as Chief 
Executive Officer. He guided Seplat 
management from its inception, through 
many major milestones and his impact on 
our growth and success of this Company 
cannot be underestimated. It is a tribute to 
his management that we are in such a strong 
position today and we are grateful for the 
insights he will continue to share with us  
as a Non-Executive Director on our Board. 

Austin was succeeded as Chief Executive 
Officer by the Chief Financial Officer Roger 
Brown, who has already brought a fresh 
approach to leadership, announcing in 
October a streamlining of the organisation  
to improve efficiency, as I will detail later. 
Roger joined Seplat in 2013 as the Chief 
Financial Officer and played a key role in  
the successful dual listing of the Company  
in both the London and Nigeria Stock 
Exchanges in 2014. Also, since joining the 
Company, he has played significant roles  
in various asset acquisitions by Seplat.  
He brings to the CEO role a deep knowledge 
of the Company as the erstwhile CFO and  
as a member of the Board. He has strong 
financial, commercial and merger and 
acquisition (M&A) experience as well as 
proven people skills that will be an asset  
as the Company embarks on implementing 
our transformation strategy.

With Roger stepping up from the role of CFO, 
we announced the appointment of Emeka 
Onwuka, OON, as our new Chief Financial 
Officer and Executive Director. He assumed 
the role in August. A former tax partner at 
Anderson Tax Nigeria, Emeka brings more 
than 30 years’ experience in financial 
services within Sub-Saharan Africa, 
including roles as Group Managing Director/ 
CEO of Diamond Bank Plc. He has held 
various Board positions as Chairman, FMDQ 
Securities Exchange Limited; Director, FMDQ 
Holdings Limited; Director, Ecobank Nigeria 
Limited; and Director, Bharti Airtel Nigeria.

Since we raised $535 million 
at our initial public offering in 
May 2014, we have returned 
$344 million to shareholders 
in the form of dividends. 

In August we strengthened the 
independence of our Board with the 
appointments of M. Xavier Rolet, KBE and 
Ms. Arunma Oteh, OON, both of whom bring 
significant experience of international 
business and corporate governance.  
M. Rolet was CEO of the London Stock 
Exchange for ten years, during which time 
its market value rose from £800 million to 
£15 billion. He is currently the Chairman, 
Board of Directors at Phosagro PJSC, a 
member of the Board of Directors of the 
Saudi Stock Exchange Tadawul as an 
appointee of the Public Investment Fund, 
and an Expert Adviser to the Shanghai 
Institute of Finance for the Real Economy. 

Ms. Oteh is a seasoned business executive 
with many years’ experience at the highest 
levels at major multilateral agencies, global 
financial institutions and in Government. 
She has been an academic scholar at the 
University of Oxford since January 2019 and 
a member of the London Stock Exchange 
Africa Advisory Group since January 2020. 
Ms. Oteh served as Treasurer and Vice 
President of the World Bank from 2015 to 
2018 and was the Director General of the 
Securities and Exchange Commission 
Nigeria from 2010 to 2015.

In November we announced the retirements 
of Michael Alexander, Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director, and Mrs. Ifueko M. 
Omoigui Okauru, Non-Executive Director, both 
retiring on 31 January 2021. Mr. Basil Omiyi 
assumed the role of Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director on the same day.

I would like to thank all our Directors for the 
wisdom and guidance they have shared with 
us over what has been a very challenging 
year and look forward to their continued 
counsel in the future.

Business reorganisation and imperatives
Having acquired Eland Oil & Gas late in 2019, 
I am pleased to report that it is now fully 
integrated into Seplat. Its headquarters  
in Aberdeen have become our Centre for 
Excellence, responsible for technical  
training and development across the Group, 
subsurface expertise, and the appraisal  
of new energy technologies. Supporting 
functions such as IT and HR were integrated, 
as was the management of community 
relations. In addition, we have begun sharing 
expertise and best practices with Elcrest, 
which is a joint venture with Starcrest, and 
which jointly operates OML 40 with NPDC. 

In October, our new CEO Roger Brown 
announced a streamlining of the organisation 
to improve efficiency at Seplat. Notable 
changes to the organisational structure 
included Asset Managers reporting directly 
to the CEO, the creation of a Corporate 
Services Department to include HR, IT and 
Business Services, and the creation of a 
Research & Sustainability function within  
the External Affairs Department. 

In addition, Roger created a New Energy unit, 
under the leadership of Yetunde Taiwo, 
tasked with managing our gas business and 
exploring ways that Seplat can develop a 
new renewables business for longer-term 
creation of value. 

A major force in our gas strategy will be  
the ANOH Gas Processing Plant that we  
are developing in a joint venture with the 
Nigerian National Gas Company. I am 
pleased to report that we completed equity 
funding of the project at the end of 2020 and 
in February 2021, we announced that our 
AGPC joint venture has successfully raised 
$260 million of debt to complete the project 
funding. The fact that a consortium of 
Nigerian and international banks were 
prepared to commit up to $450 million was  
a strong sign of confidence in ANOH, which  
is one of the most important strategic 
infrastructure projects in the country. 

5

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Chairman’s statement  | continued

However, our cash position remained strong 
and the $318 million of cash we generated 
from operations was significantly more  
than the $150 million we invested for future 
growth. In fact, our capital expenditure in 
this difficult year was higher than the 
$125 million we spent in 2019, which 
demonstrates our commitment to growth. 
Furthermore, we voluntarily repaid $100 
million of our Revolving Credit Facility and 
ended the year with $225 million in cash  
and net debt of $440 million.

Dividend commitment maintained
Our financial performance enabled us  
to maintain our commitment to paying 
dividends. While other companies were 
cutting back or cancelling payments for the 
2019 financial year, because of prevailing 
uncertainties, we honoured our commitment 
and paid a final dividend of US$0.05, for a 
total dividend of US$0.10 for 2019. 

In October 2020, we announced an interim 
dividend of US$0.05 and the Board has since 
approved an additional top-up of US$0.05, 
maintaining our US$0.10 dividend for the 
2020 financial year.

Since we raised $535 million at our initial 
public offering in May 2014, we have 
returned $344 million to shareholders  
in the form of dividends. 

Towards world-class governance
The strengthening of our Board that I have 
already described is part of our ongoing 
desire to achieve world-class governance of 
our Company. Six of our 13-member Board 
are independent and we continue to work 
towards increasing diversity. 

In addition, as we announced in March, we 
have taken the bold decision to eliminate all 
Related-Party Transactions – a move that 
exceeds the requirements of the UK Code  
of Corporate Governance. I know that 
shareholders will applaud this move as  
a sign of our commitment to the highest 
standards of governance. 

Sustainability initiatives
It is the responsibility of the Board to plan for 
the long-term sustainability of our Company. 
We have conducted scenario analyses on our 
assets under different climate change and 
demand scenarios, as well as looking 
towards a future in which Seplat is much 
more involved in promoting low carbon 
environment in our operations. Such a 
transition will involve significant new 
innovations, technology, skills and 
relationships, compared to our existing 
expertise of subsurface exploration, drilling 
and hydrocarbon processing, but we are 
determined to be a major part of Nigeria’s 
future energy mix and help drive the country 
towards more sustainable energy generation.

We drilled six oil wells and three gas wells 
during the year, choosing to focus on 
higher-margin oil wells in the first six months 
of 2020 and the development of gas fields in 
the second half of the year.

As I have mentioned, a tragic accident at 
OML 40, operated by NPDC and Elcrest, 
sadly claimed the lives of seven third-party 
workers working on a maintenance barge. 
Our thoughts and prayers remain with their 
families and friends. 

Three investigations were launched, led by 
the DPR, a team from NPDC/Elcrest and an 
independent investigator. The investigations 
identified failures in the Permit to Work 
system and 18 safety recommendations 
were subsequently implemented to ensure 
that such a tragic event can never happen 
again. Furthermore, we redoubled our 
efforts to drive a strong safety culture 
throughout the organisation. 

Our financial performance was as good as 
could be achieved in such a difficult year. 
Revenues of $530 million reflected the  
lower demand and pricing environment  
and non-cash impairment provisions of 
$153 million, obliged by revaluation of assets 
at lower oil prices, reversed an operating 
profit of $121 million to a reported loss of 
$32 million. 

Although its completion has experienced 
some inevitable delays because of Covid-19 
restrictions on imports, the ANOH project 
will significantly enhance Seplat’s position 
as Nigeria’s leading supplier of processed 
gas for the domestic energy market. 

Although driving Nigeria’s transition to gas 
remains our priority, it is essential that we 
ourselves transition for a long-term future  
in which renewables are an important part  
of Nigeria’s energy mix. 

Performance in 2020
Our operational and financial performance 
reflects the very challenging conditions I 
have described above. Our average working 
interest production was 51,183boepd, 
including 33,714bopd of liquids and 
101MMscfd gas (17,469boepd). Of this, 
our Eland assets contributed 8,855bopd, 
or 26% of total liquid volumes. 

The performance of our oil business was 
affected by falling demand, the quotas 
imposed upon Nigeria by OPEC+, problems 
with the Trans Forcados Pipeline, a 
suspension of production resulting from  
an accident at OML 40 in July and a further 
suspension following problems with a 
storage vessel at the same site. Our gas 
business was affected by turnaround 
maintenance at our Oben gas plant as well 
as gas wells ceasing production earlier than 
anticipated, and of course the impact of 
Covid-19 related lockdowns on demand  
in the Nigerian economy. 

6

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Thanks to the cost-cutting 
initiatives we implemented in 
2020, as well as our prudent 
financial management, we are 
positioned very strongly to 
take advantage of the global 
recovery we are beginning 
to see.

At a national level, Seplat was one of 
33 organisations that donated a combined 
total of US$30 million to support the Federal 
Government’s efforts at curbing the spread 
of the pandemic. In addition, Seplat provided 
food assistance, medical and protective 
equipment worth ₦50 million to help local 
State authorities. We remain committed to 
the wellbeing of our host communities and 
will continue to provide health and education 
programmes, as well as opportunities for 
training and employment in the future. 

Outlook for 2021
Having proved our resilience again, and in 
the most challenging and unprecedented 
environment we have ever experienced,  
I am confident that Seplat will build on its 
strong foundations to become a larger,  
more diverse, and more sustainable  
energy company in the years to come. Given 
Nigeria’s need to improve access to energy 
and the potential for significant market 
growth, I hope you will agree that we are  
very well positioned to consolidate and 
strengthen Nigeria’s energy champion. 

As part of this transition, we will be seeking 
your approval in this AGM to change our 
name from Seplat Petroleum Development 
Company to Seplat Energy Plc. I believe  
this move reflects our intention to be at the 
forefront of Nigeria’s energy transition in the 
next decade of our journey. We will continue 
to build value for you, our shareholders, 
either through organic growth or through 
carefully selected acquisitions that will 
deliver the scale or expertise we will need  
in the coming years. 

As the pandemic and its impacts recede, 
demand for oil and gas is already recovering 
and, thanks to the cost-cutting initiatives we 
implemented in 2020, as well as our prudent 
financial management, we are positioned 
very strongly to take advantage of the global 
recovery we are beginning to see. 

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our staff, 
who have performed so well under the 
difficult circumstances of the pandemic  
and the necessity of working from home.

I also thank you, our shareholders, for your 
patience and trust in our Company in what 
was a very difficult time for your investments 
and assure you that we will do everything in 
our power to justify your faith. 

A.B.C. Orjiako 
Non-Executive Chairman

7

 Selpat’s Covid-19 

donations for Imo.

Our ANOH Gas Processing Plant will be  
a major step forwards in Nigeria’s drive  
to reduce carbon emissions, replacing 
potentially millions of small-scale, 
inefficient, and polluting generators with 
cleaner utility-scale power generation  
fired by Nigerian natural gas.

We commissioned an environmental 
consultancy, Critical Resource, to conduct  
a gap analysis on our efforts in the field of 
sustainability, focusing on the environmental, 
social and governance aspects of our 
business. Their extensive report identified 
numerous areas that we are committed to 
improving to global standards and we have 
begun programmes across the Company to 
ensure we embed sustainability thinking 
across the organisation. 

In addition, we intend to increase our 
disclosure of environmental, social and 
governance (ESG) data, by adopting the 
recommendations of the Task Force on 
Climate-related Financial Disclosures and 
will commit to reporting CO2 emission data  
to the Carbon Disclosure Project in the 
near future. 

Helping our communities 
Part of our ESG commitment is already 
apparent in the long-term projects we 
implement in our host communities. As the 
Covid-19 pandemic struck Nigeria, it was  
our duty to help our host communities  
and States in whatever ways we could.

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Building a resilient business

A HISTORY OF 
RESILIENCE

Financial discipline is the key
Since our foundation, most of our revenues 
have come from oil, a product whose price is 
beyond our control. Given this uncertainty, 
we have always operated with a strong 
philosophy of financial discipline, believing 
that ‘cash is king’ and we must generate as 
much of it as we can. 

We focus on prudent investment to drive the 
highest possible returns, reducing the cost 
of our operations and ensuring the maximum 
possible cash flow from our products, to 
maintain a manageable level of net debt. 

This provides a strong cash buffer that, in 
normal times, enables us to invest, repay 
debt and return money to shareholders in 
the form of dividends. 

In addition, we have increasingly diversified 
from oil into gas, which provides long-term, 
more stable cash flows compared to the 
volatility of oil. Gas provides great potential 
for growth, given Nigeria’s need to replace 
small-scale diesel generation with utility-
scale power stations powered by much 
cleaner nature gas, which our country has 
in abundance.

This philosophy saw us through the 
protracted crises of the oil price collapse 
and the Trans Forcados force majeure that 
followed soon after. It is why, in 2020, we 
were able to maintain investment for growth, 
repay US$100m of debt and honour our 
commitment to shareholders with a dividend 
of US$0.10 per share. 

8

Financial discipline and 
a robust business model 
have protected Seplat 
through difficult times

Oil price crisis

(Jul 14 – Jan 16)

The protracted oil price crisis that ran from mid-2014 to 
early 2016 focused our attention on the need to operate  
at the lowest possible cost and hedge against future  
price volatility. As can be seen in the charts, we controlled 
our cash position by significantly paring back capital 
expenditure, focusing only on projects that would generate 
near-term, higher-margin returns. At the same time, our  
gas revenues increased, diversifying our risk away from oil 
price volatility. 

Trans Forcados  
force majeure

(Feb 16 – Jun 17)

Repeated problems with the Trans Forcados infrastructure 
have driven us to look at alternative routes to get our oil  
to export centres on the coast. Although significantly 
delayed, the Amuke-Escravos Pipeline will offer an 
alternative and more secure underground route to  
the coast that will immediately increase revenues 
by reducing reconciliation losses and losses from 
maintenance downtime or pipeline vandalism. 

Covid-19  
pandemic

(Mar 20 – )

The pandemic was and still is an existential crisis for the  
oil industry, resulting in lower demand and lower prices  
that may persist for some years as economies and global 
travel recover from its effects. Our business continuity  
plan, strong cash balance, low cost base, astute risk 
management and hedging strategy helped us pull through. 
Furthermore, we remain committed to increasing our gas 
business to reduce our level of exposure to oil. 

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020$900

$588

$285

$326

$664

$160

$310

$169

$570

$437

$446

$585

$789

$698

$333

$259

  Gross Debt ($m)

Cash ($m)

$321

$120

$152

$125

$150

$52

$33

$88

Focused cash 
management 
strategy

Flexibility  
with capital 
investment ($m)

Increasing gas 
volumes for 
growing market 
needs (boepd)

$1,000

$800

$600

$400

$200

$0

$350

$300

$250

$200

$150

$100

$50

$0

50,000

40,000

Gas diversification 
reduces revenue 
exposure to oil 
price ($m)

30,000

28,341

4,867

20,000

30,823

6,571

10,000

23,474

24,252

0

$1,000

$800

$600

$400

$200

$0

2%

$18.1

$862.1

4%

$27.4

$747.6

43,372

14,369

29,003

13%

$77.0

$493.5

49,867

51,183

46,498

24,198

22,563

17,469

25,669

23,935

33,714

36,923

19,070

17,853

25,877

15,786

10,091

  Oil

Gas

21%

$155.6

$590.5

29%

$202.4

$495.1

21%

$112.5

$417.9

28%

$124.0

$318.2

41%

$105.6

$148.8

  Oil

Gas

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

9

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Coping with Covid

A ROBUST BUSINESS 
RESPONSE TO THE 
PANDEMIC

Seplat has delivered a robust  
performance despite the  
unprecedented crises we have  
experienced since March. 

Brent Oil price ($)

60

55

50

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

JAN ‘20

FEB ‘20

MAR ‘20

APR ‘20

MAY ‘20

JUN ‘20

JUL ‘20

AUG ‘20

SEP ‘20

OCT ‘20

NOV ‘20

DEC ‘20

Oil market impact 
The price of our main product suffered greatly in the 
pandemic as economic activity fell and local and 
international travel collapsed. As demand for oil fell,  
the crisis was exacerbated by a pricing and supply 
dispute between Saudi Arabia and Russia that shocked 
the market so badly it responded with negative pricing  
in April on fears that storage capacity would soon run 
out. As the year progressed, however, the price of oil 
recovered on optimistic news about vaccines. In 
response to the market crisis and OPEC+ decisions  
on supply, Seplat abided by quotas and purposefully 
hedged to protect our cash flows from downside shocks. 
We booked hedging income of $26.4 million in 2020, with 
$8.3 million hedging costs being recognised as fair 
value charges. 

  Read more 
Page 52

Nigeria’s response  
to Covid-19
Thanks to its experience in dealing with 
previous challenges such as Ebola, the 
direct impact of Covid-19 has been far  
less severe in Nigeria than in many other 
countries. In the year since March 2020  
the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control has 
recorded approximately 160,000 cases and 
nearly 2,100 deaths. Now, in 2021, a year 
after the outbreak and with multiple vaccine 
options available, the threat is beginning  
to recede and life is returning to normal.  
The question for all of us is whether that 
pre-pandemic ‘normal’ was inherently 
unsustainable and what lessons should  
be learned from this great shock the world 
has  experienced. 

10

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Field operations
Despite the pandemic, our fields remained  
in operation throughout 2020. Although the 
Federal Government placed restrictions on 
internal travel, essential industries such as 
ours were exempted so we could serve 
Nigeria’s need for exports of oil and gas for 
local consumption. Recognising the need to 
adapt our field operations for the health and 
wellbeing of our colleagues, we implemented 
essential-only staffing of field operations, 
based upon 28-day rotations instead of 
14-day, with strict quarantines to be 
observed in the week before deployment. 
Backed by regular testing, this ensured  
that all our fields remained Covid-free 
throughout the crisis. 

We will continue to monitor the 
impact of Covid-19 to ensure 
that we provide appropriate 
support for our employees, 
host communities and other 
stakeholders.

 Business continuity 

was assured through 
the use of secure 
technologies by staff 
working from home.

Adapting to  
‘working from home’
Working from home became the new  
normal in 2020 as offices were shuttered 
and travel restrictions took hold. Thanks to 
our business continuity plans we were fully 
prepared and continued to run the business 
from homes offices and kitchen tables, 
using secure IT and remote collaboration 
tools for meetings. Our Annual General 
Meeting was a hybrid affair, broadcast live 
on the internet as a small audience attended 
in person with full regard to social distancing 
protocols. We introduced earnings calls at 
the first and third quarter results and 
continued our active engagement with 
investors by video calls and virtual investor 
conferences. We even held virtual parties to 
celebrate our 10th anniversary so we could 
maintain the strong sense of community we 
would normally experience through 
teamwork in the office.

Helping our host 
communities
We immediately recognised the need to help 
our host communities through the difficult 
times of Covid-19. At a national level, Seplat 
was one of 33 organisations that donated a 
combined total of $30 million to support the 
Federal Government’s efforts at curbing the 
spread of the pandemic. In addition, Seplat 
provided food assistance, medical and 
protective equipment worth ₦50 million  
to help local State authorities.

  Read more 
Page 91

11

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020CEO interview

Q&A —  
PLANNING 
FOR THE 
FUTURE 

Seplat CEO, Roger Thompson Brown 
talks about taking over in a pandemic 
and what we can expect from Seplat 
in the coming years. 

Roger Thompson Brown 
Chief Executive Officer

12

I truly feel that we have 
made a positive difference 
for our host communities 
and will continue to do so 
long into the future.

You took leadership of a healthy business 
surviving a pandemic, what were your 
initial priorities? 
A: It’s very challenging to take on the role  
of CEO when your staff are all working from 
home, so visibility and communication were 
essential to motivating staff and reassuring 
them about the future.

For the business itself, priority number one 
was to increase operational efficiency as 
well as reducing costs, not simply as a 
response to the lower oil price but because  
I believe that a constant focus on improving 
efficiency will drive us to become a better 
and more sustainable business. Part of this 
cultural shift was about motivating our 
people, breaking down hierarchies and 
promoting more creativity and innovation. 
We have an extremely skilled and 
experienced workforce and I want to harness 
that potential. Seplat’s staff responded 
magnificently to the challenge of keeping the 
business running from home and I commend 
their efforts in what was an unprecedented 
and challenging year. 

As to our longer-term priorities, it is clear 
that the oil and gas industry is changing 
rapidly, and the Covid-19 pandemic may 
have accelerated the drive for energy 
transition in Nigeria. As the country’s largest 
indigenous independent energy producer, 
Seplat will play a major role in that transition, 
helping Nigeria forge ahead with the 
development of its existing resources and 
developing new ways to produce energy  
at low economic cost and at low cost to  
the environment. Assessing those new 
opportunities and preparing Seplat to be  
at the forefront of implementing them is  
my major focus going forwards. 

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202013

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Seplat turned in a robust performance 
against a very challenging year, to what  
do you attribute this success?
A: We have faced challenging years before 
and survived because we had a strong 
balance sheet that was sustained through 
prudent financial management and this 
disciplined approach helped us through 
2020, which had the twin shocks of  
reduced demand and lower prices.

We responded by negotiating deeper cost 
reductions, focusing on efficiency, and 
adjusting our production and operations to 
reflect the realities of the pandemic and its 
impact on demand. Much of that is down to 
the Seplat team who responded quickly to 
the changes required by Covid-19, ensuring 
we could remain safe and continue 
operations throughout.

Despite these very considerable challenges 
we maintained our dividend, voluntarily 
repaid debt, invested for growth and still 
managed to progress our key projects.  
That sets us apart from many of our peers.

How will you build on the integration 
of  Eland? 
A: The steps we have taken already will 
deliver long-term benefits. We have reduced 
barging costs, improving the profitability of 
the Eland production, and we have created  
a Centre of Excellence at what was Eland’s 
technical centre in Aberdeen, Scotland.  
This team in Aberdeen will also support the 
recently created New Energy unit and it is in 
a great location for access to industry and 
academic expertise in all kinds of energy 
technologies including renewables. 

If the oil price remains stable, we will 
allocate capital to drill more production 
wells at Gbetiokun and Opuama as well as 
replacing the barging operation at Gbetiokun 
with a dedicated oil pipeline.

In the longer term, there is potential to 
significantly upgrade our reserves by drilling 
the high-potential Sibiri (formerly Amobe) 
exploration prospect at OML 40.

14

Nexant forecasts Nigeria’s gas demand 
to grow by c.20 Bcm by 2035, with most 
growth in the power sector.

How does oil remain relevant in today’s 
climate-conscious world?
A: There is much debate on whether  
global demand for oil may have peaked  
and whether it will reduce over the coming 
decades as transport is fuelled by electricity 
instead of oil. That said, the EIA forecasts 
that demand will still be 96.9 million barrels 
per day in 2021, only slightly lower than in 
2019 before the disruption caused by 
the pandemic. 

Of course, there is pressure to reduce oil 
extraction and the carbon emissions it 
creates, but that depends on the rest of  
the world adopting less oil-intensive ways  
to travel and generate power. Nigeria’s 
per-capita energy consumption and carbon 
emissions are actually very low, and its 
national electricity grid is still very poorly 
developed. This is why the country is so 
reliant on small-scale diesel generation  
to satisfy its energy needs and this is the 
problem we need to address most urgently.

It’s important to recognise that Nigeria  
is a developing country with low access  
to energy and a rapidly growing young 
population. Hydrocarbons are the country’s 
main resource and provide significant help 
for its economy. The proceeds from the oil 
industry fund a wide range of Sustainable 
Development Goals (SDGs) and are crucial to 
the country’s societal development. Nigeria 
needs to achieve significant growth in its 
capacity to deliver education and health 
services, food production and energy 
security. Without the development of its 
indigenous oil and gas industry these goals 
will become very difficult to achieve and so  
in Nigeria, the industry remains not just 
relevant but essential.

Since oil and gas was first discovered in 
Nigeria in 1956, the country has struggled to 
fully capture and share with the population 
the benefits of its abundant natural 
resources. Finding a way to do so now,  
even as the world responds to the threat  
of climate change, is essential for a 
just transition.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020What opportunities does the imperative  
of climate change hold for Seplat?
A: Seplat is embracing climate change 
opportunities on two fronts. Firstly, we 
continue to invest heavily in expanding  
our domestic gas business in line with the 
Government’s strategy to achieve universal 
access to electricity, and to make that 
energy cheaper and cleaner by replacing 
diesel generation, which is very damaging  
to the environment and the economy. Gas is 
clearly the next step for Nigeria, and we have 
a leading position domestically with the 
Nigerian Government declaring the ANOH 
project as one of the seven critical gas 
development projects for the country.

Secondly, we have created a New Energy 
unit to focus on lower carbon to zero carbon 
fuel sources and the natural extension 
beyond gas is for Seplat to participate in 
renewable energy, such as solar power,  
and in emerging technologies such as 
carbon capture and storage. Our view is that 
Nigeria will benefit from being able to deploy 
renewable energy on its electricity grid 
rather than solely developing an off grid 
renewable solution. By providing a base load 
of cheaper, lower carbon gas on the grid, the 
acceleration of grid-based renewables will 
be possible, which is why we are currently 
focusing on accelerating our midstream gas 
business and additionally expanding into 
LPG, which is a good fuel source for cooking, 
preventing deforestation.

The priority for 2021 is to address our 
responsibilities as part of the global energy 
transition and to set realistic targets for  
how we as a company evolve to drive that 
transition along.

 Government policy  
is also focused on 
addressing the 
undersupply of gas  
and extending access  
to electricity.  

What progress did Seplat make with 
sustainability in 2020? What future 
initiatives can we expect? 
A: We already support most of the UN’s  
17 SDGs through the taxes and royalties  
we pay to government, which support  
things like health, education, and 
infrastructure, and through our own 
community support programmes.

On a practical front, we retained a leading 
ESG consultancy, Critical Resource, to 
undertake a ‘gap analysis’ and identify  
where our efforts in sustainability could  
be improved, and not just in the domain  
of emissions. The result of this analysis is 
enabling us to undertake scenario planning 
to forecast the impact of climate change on 
an asset-by-asset basis.

The analysis will also enable us to align  
our reporting with best practice for ESG 
disclosure and we aim to be TCFD and IPIECA 
compliant as soon as possible.

On a practical front, it was our responsibility 
to provide whatever help we could for local 
communities hit by the pandemic and its 
restrictions, and we were involved in several 
initiatives, both on our own and with industry 
and government partners. 

How do you build on success into 2021? 
What initiatives can we expect? 
A: The oil price has started to recover  
and thanks to our cost-saving initiatives  
I believe we will translate this into higher 
cash generation this year, which will enable 
us to invest more for the future. 

In the second half, the long-delayed 
Amukpe-Escravos Pipeline is expected  
to come onstream and reduce downtime, 
reconciliation and other losses, which will 
provide a further boost to Seplat’s cash flow. 
It will provide a reliable, secure alternative to 
the Trans Forcados route that has frequently 
shut in our production because of 
maintenance and other problems.

We continue to focus on the ANOH Gas 
Processing Plant, and although this has 
experienced some inevitable delays because 
of the pandemic, it will be transformational for 
Seplat and for Nigeria when it opens in 2022. 

In addition to these two key factors, a 
number of other planned initiatives will 
provide further operating and financial 
benefits. Exploration drilling and new gas 
wells are likely to increase production and 
reserves whilst an increased focus on 
operational improvements will improve 
production uptime.

Having survived the worst year in the history 
of the oil and gas industry, the actions we’ve 
taken before and during 2020 have left us in 
a position of strength and I am confident 
that as demand recovers and the imperative 
for gas increases, Seplat will exit 2021 a 
larger, stronger, more profitable company 
and strengthen its position as Nigeria’s 
indigenous energy leader.

Roger Thompson Brown 
Chief Executive Officer

15

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Strategy

A ROBUST STRATEGY  
FOR GROWTH

1

2

Strategic pillars

Increase our resources

Description

We must constantly replenish our reserves to 
assure future supplies. However, we must also 
increase reserves if we are to maintain growth. 
We aim to drill at least one exploration well per 
year, focusing on prospects that offer rapid  
and low-cost production, using existing 
infrastructure if possible. Our development 
drilling programmes also enable us to assess 
the upside potential of fields, allowing us  
to maximise hydrocarbon recovery from 
reservoirs and capitalise on low-risk reserve 
addition opportunities. Following the 
successful integration of Eland, we will look  
to acquire new assets where appropriate. 

Progress

•  Converted 151MMbbls oil and 84MMboe  
gas from 2C resources to 2P reserves and 
revisions since 2010 

Measuring our performance

•  Reserves replacement

 See page 20

Risk overview

Risk categories
 See page 30

Outlook

16

Exploration activities are focused on 
determining the presence of hydrocarbons 
whilst appraisal activities are focused on better 
defining and assessing the commerciality of a 
hydrocarbon discovery. Both activities by 
definition carry significant geological risk, so 
the technical maturity of an E&A target is key  
to narrowing the range of risk and uncertainty. 
Seplat seeks to use available technologies 
including seismic analysis to minimise pre-drill 
risks and maximise chances of a successful 
drilling outcome.

•  Operational risks
•  Financial risks
•  Strategic risks

•  Continued evaluation and high-grading of  
the E&A potential within Seplat’s portfolio
•  Execute plans to drill one exploration well a 
year as oil prices and free cash flow permit

Increase production and 
improve its profitability

Our value chain involves developing fields and 
then extracting, processing and exporting the 
hydrocarbons they produce. We will maximise 
profitability and return on investment by 
maintaining strict cost control, implementing 
the most appropriate technologies and 
organising ourselves and our service providers 
to deliver development projects on time  
and within budget. Once operational, we  
aim to safely extract the maximum volume  
of hydrocarbons for lowest possible cost.  
In the export phase, we must maximise uptime 
and reduce reconciliation losses, if necessary 
developing our own export routes, to mitigate 
asset concentration and reliance on third-
party infrastructure.

•  Focused on highest-impact, value-adding 

work programme prioritising gas

•  Eland assets integrated into Group portfolio, 

immediately contributing 26% of Group 
liquids volumes 

•  Ongoing cost-saving achievements and 

continuing negotiations with supplier driven 
by crisis of 2020

•  Work to establish alternative, more reliable 

export routes 

•  Discretion over level and timing of spend 

allows alignment with cash flow

•  Working interest production
•  Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT)
•  Opex per boe

Oil and gas production operations have a 
number of risks attached, above and below the 
ground. The Company has a skilled technical 
team with a detailed knowledge of the geology 
and reservoir dynamics to allow optimal 
production solutions to be implemented. Above 
the ground, the Company has clear systems 
and procedures in place to ensure the safe and 
secure operation of its operated oil and gas 
production, processing and transportation 
facilities. The Company does, however, rely on 
third-party operated export infrastructure that 
has been susceptible to interruptions.

•  Operational risks
•  External risks
•  Financial risks
•  Strategic risks

•  Continue to pursue cost-saving initiatives
•  Improve efficiency with new technology 
•  Amukpe-Escravos Pipeline delayed but 

expected to become operational in H2 2021, 
providing a more reliable export route 

•  Develop new export routes
•  Increase contribution of gas

Develop gas to drive 

Pursue profitable  

Nigeria’s energy transition

new opportunities

Behave responsibly,  

and share our success

Nigeria has vast resources of natural gas and a 

We see rich opportunities for growth in Nigeria 

Being a responsible and accountable corporate 

pressing need to improve access to affordable 

including future licensing rounds, asset 

citizen is a key priority. We recognise that 

energy and bring the country’s energy 

consumption towards global norms, by 

divestments from international oil companies, 

minimising the effects of our activities on  

asset farm-ins and acquisition opportunities 

the environment, understanding local issues, 

replacing millions of inefficient diesel and petrol 

amongst independent E&P companies. Our 

positively contributing to our host 

generators with utility-scale gas power stations. 

focus is on securing blocks in the onshore and 

communities, being a first-rate employer  

The growth of our gas business is therefore a 

offshore areas of the Niger Delta that offer 

and providing our staff with a safe working 

priority that will deliver multiple benefits such 

near-term production growth, cash flow and 

environment and career development 

as protection from oil price volatility, greater 

reserve replacement potential. In the longer 

opportunities are essential enablers that  

earnings visibility, higher cash generation and 

term we may diversify our hydrocarbon 

allow us to achieve our goals. Supporting all of 

cleaner production. Our 465MMscfd Oben  

portfolio by pursuing assets outside Nigeria.  

this is a strict adherence to strong corporate 

Gas Processing Plant, one of Nigeria’s largest, 

In addition, we will actively look for new 

governance and business integrity culture 

will soon be augmented by OML 53’s new 

300MMscfd ANOH facility, which will come 

onstream in late 2021.

opportunities in renewable energy to ensure  

throughout our organisation. We will share  

we are a major player in this important and 

our success in the form of remuneration,  

potentially very profitable growth sector for 

taxes, royalties, community investment and 

Nigerian energy companies. 

dividends for shareholders. 

•  Seplat is a major supplier of processed gas  

•  Acquired direct interests in seven blocks and 

•  Proven community engagement model aligns 

to the domestic market

further revenue interest in one block to date

Seplat with host communities

•  Oben Phase I and II expansion projects 

expanded plant processing capacity to 

465MMscfd from 90MMscfd

February 2021 for the 300MMscfd 

joint-venture ANOH Gas Processing Plant

Ubima marginal field

onshore and offshore

•  $680 million fund raising completed in 

•  Well positioned to access future deal flow 

in 2020

•  Completed the acquisition of Eland Oil and 

•  High retention rate of skilled and motivated 

Gas that holds interests in OML 40 and  

workforce

•  Paid $180 million in taxes and royalties 

•  Paid $344 million in dividends to  

shareholders since IPO

•  Embarked on new ESG initiatives with view  

to adopting TCFD and emissions reporting

•   Gas reserves, production  

and revenues

•  Portfolio expansion

•  2P reserves and 2C resources

•  Working interest production

•  Lost time incident frequency (LTIF)

•  Corporate responsibility initiatives

Despite the abundance of resources in the 

Competition for upstream oil and gas blocks in 

Failure to adhere to the highest standards of 

ground, the natural gas sector in Nigeria is at a 

Nigeria is intense and there are an increasing 

corporate responsibility can severely impede 

relatively nascent stage of development and 

number of industry participants seeking to 

the Company’s ability to efficiently operate its 

requires significant ongoing investment to grow 

grow their presence in or gain access to the 

current portfolio, access new business 

capacity. The pace at which the sector grows 

sector. High levels of competitive tension can 

opportunities, secure capital and ultimately 

and scale of investment will to a large extent 

drive acquisition prices higher. Oil price 

deliver value accretion to its shareholders.

dictate the timing and magnitude of 

opportunities for producers such as Seplat.

volatility also presents increased uncertainty 

when evaluating opportunities and access to 

capital can also constrain ability to 

successfully execute transactions.

•  Operational risks

•  External risks

•  Financial risks

•  Strategic risks

•  Financial risks

•  Strategic risks

•  Operational risks

•  External risks

•  Financial risks

•  Strategic risks

•  Capitalise on Oben Phase II expansion of 

•  Continued long-term pursuit of our focused 

•  Strong focus on driving improvements in 

processing capacity to increase production

acquisition strategy

safety and environmental performance

•  Expect ANOH joint venture to deliver first gas 

•  Price discipline and seek to implement 

•  ESG thinking at heart of Board 

in H1 2022, further develop OML 53’s 

innovative structures to protect the  

decision making

strategic gas resource

balance sheet

•  Completion of new Sapele Gas Plant 

•  Targeting both oil and gas

expected in 2022

•  Focus on monetising new opportunities, 

e.g. flared gas, LPG market 

•  Explore new energy possibilities

•  Deliver positive community outcomes

•  Continue to pay dividends as appropriate

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Since inception we have been guided by a clear and consistent 
strategy that is supportive of our long-term strategic vision to be 
the leading indigenous African independent oil and gas company.

Strategic pillars

Increase our resources

Increase production and 

improve its profitability

Develop gas to drive 
Nigeria’s energy transition

Pursue profitable  
new opportunities

Behave responsibly,  
and share our success

3

4

5

Nigeria has vast resources of natural gas and a 
pressing need to improve access to affordable 
energy and bring the country’s energy 
consumption towards global norms, by 
replacing millions of inefficient diesel and petrol 
generators with utility-scale gas power stations. 
The growth of our gas business is therefore a 
priority that will deliver multiple benefits such 
as protection from oil price volatility, greater 
earnings visibility, higher cash generation and 
cleaner production. Our 465MMscfd Oben  
Gas Processing Plant, one of Nigeria’s largest, 
will soon be augmented by OML 53’s new 
300MMscfd ANOH facility, which will come 
onstream in late 2021.

We see rich opportunities for growth in Nigeria 
including future licensing rounds, asset 
divestments from international oil companies, 
asset farm-ins and acquisition opportunities 
amongst independent E&P companies. Our 
focus is on securing blocks in the onshore and 
offshore areas of the Niger Delta that offer 
near-term production growth, cash flow and 
reserve replacement potential. In the longer 
term we may diversify our hydrocarbon 
portfolio by pursuing assets outside Nigeria.  
In addition, we will actively look for new 
opportunities in renewable energy to ensure  
we are a major player in this important and 
potentially very profitable growth sector for 
Nigerian energy companies. 

Being a responsible and accountable corporate 
citizen is a key priority. We recognise that 
minimising the effects of our activities on  
the environment, understanding local issues, 
positively contributing to our host 
communities, being a first-rate employer  
and providing our staff with a safe working 
environment and career development 
opportunities are essential enablers that  
allow us to achieve our goals. Supporting all of 
this is a strict adherence to strong corporate 
governance and business integrity culture 
throughout our organisation. We will share  
our success in the form of remuneration,  
taxes, royalties, community investment and 
dividends for shareholders. 

•  Seplat is a major supplier of processed gas  

to the domestic market

•  Oben Phase I and II expansion projects 
expanded plant processing capacity to 
465MMscfd from 90MMscfd

•  $680 million fund raising completed in 
February 2021 for the 300MMscfd 
joint-venture ANOH Gas Processing Plant

•  Acquired direct interests in seven blocks and 
further revenue interest in one block to date
•  Completed the acquisition of Eland Oil and 
Gas that holds interests in OML 40 and  
Ubima marginal field

•  Proven community engagement model aligns 

Seplat with host communities

•  High retention rate of skilled and motivated 

workforce

•  Paid $180 million in taxes and royalties 

•  Well positioned to access future deal flow 

in 2020

onshore and offshore

•   Gas reserves, production  

and revenues

Despite the abundance of resources in the 
ground, the natural gas sector in Nigeria is at a 
relatively nascent stage of development and 
requires significant ongoing investment to grow 
capacity. The pace at which the sector grows 
and scale of investment will to a large extent 
dictate the timing and magnitude of 
opportunities for producers such as Seplat.

•  Portfolio expansion
•  2P reserves and 2C resources
•  Working interest production

Competition for upstream oil and gas blocks in 
Nigeria is intense and there are an increasing 
number of industry participants seeking to 
grow their presence in or gain access to the 
sector. High levels of competitive tension can 
drive acquisition prices higher. Oil price 
volatility also presents increased uncertainty 
when evaluating opportunities and access to 
capital can also constrain ability to 
successfully execute transactions.

•  Paid $344 million in dividends to  

shareholders since IPO

•  Embarked on new ESG initiatives with view  
to adopting TCFD and emissions reporting

•  Lost time incident frequency (LTIF)
•  Corporate responsibility initiatives

Failure to adhere to the highest standards of 
corporate responsibility can severely impede 
the Company’s ability to efficiently operate its 
current portfolio, access new business 
opportunities, secure capital and ultimately 
deliver value accretion to its shareholders.

•  Operational risks
•  External risks
•  Financial risks
•  Strategic risks

•  Financial risks
•  Strategic risks

•  Capitalise on Oben Phase II expansion of 

•  Continued long-term pursuit of our focused 

processing capacity to increase production
•  Expect ANOH joint venture to deliver first gas 

in H1 2022, further develop OML 53’s 
strategic gas resource

acquisition strategy

•  Price discipline and seek to implement 
innovative structures to protect the  
balance sheet

•  Completion of new Sapele Gas Plant 

•  Targeting both oil and gas

expected in 2022

•  Focus on monetising new opportunities, 

e.g. flared gas, LPG market 

•  Operational risks
•  External risks
•  Financial risks
•  Strategic risks

•  Strong focus on driving improvements in 
safety and environmental performance

•  ESG thinking at heart of Board 

decision making

•  Explore new energy possibilities
•  Deliver positive community outcomes
•  Continue to pay dividends as appropriate

17

Description

Progress

 See page 20

Risk overview

Risk categories

 See page 30

We must constantly replenish our reserves to 

Our value chain involves developing fields and 

assure future supplies. However, we must also 

then extracting, processing and exporting the 

increase reserves if we are to maintain growth. 

hydrocarbons they produce. We will maximise 

We aim to drill at least one exploration well per 

profitability and return on investment by 

year, focusing on prospects that offer rapid  

maintaining strict cost control, implementing 

and low-cost production, using existing 

the most appropriate technologies and 

infrastructure if possible. Our development 

organising ourselves and our service providers 

drilling programmes also enable us to assess 

to deliver development projects on time  

the upside potential of fields, allowing us  

to maximise hydrocarbon recovery from 

and within budget. Once operational, we  

aim to safely extract the maximum volume  

reservoirs and capitalise on low-risk reserve 

of hydrocarbons for lowest possible cost.  

addition opportunities. Following the 

In the export phase, we must maximise uptime 

successful integration of Eland, we will look  

and reduce reconciliation losses, if necessary 

to acquire new assets where appropriate. 

developing our own export routes, to mitigate 

asset concentration and reliance on third-

party infrastructure.

•  Converted 151MMbbls oil and 84MMboe  

•  Focused on highest-impact, value-adding 

gas from 2C resources to 2P reserves and 

work programme prioritising gas

revisions since 2010 

•  Eland assets integrated into Group portfolio, 

immediately contributing 26% of Group 

liquids volumes 

•  Ongoing cost-saving achievements and 

continuing negotiations with supplier driven 

•  Work to establish alternative, more reliable 

by crisis of 2020

export routes 

•  Discretion over level and timing of spend 

allows alignment with cash flow

•  Working interest production

•  Earnings before interest and tax (EBIT)

•  Opex per boe

Exploration activities are focused on 

Oil and gas production operations have a 

determining the presence of hydrocarbons 

number of risks attached, above and below the 

whilst appraisal activities are focused on better 

ground. The Company has a skilled technical 

defining and assessing the commerciality of a 

team with a detailed knowledge of the geology 

hydrocarbon discovery. Both activities by 

and reservoir dynamics to allow optimal 

definition carry significant geological risk, so 

production solutions to be implemented. Above 

the technical maturity of an E&A target is key  

the ground, the Company has clear systems 

to narrowing the range of risk and uncertainty. 

and procedures in place to ensure the safe and 

Seplat seeks to use available technologies 

secure operation of its operated oil and gas 

including seismic analysis to minimise pre-drill 

production, processing and transportation 

risks and maximise chances of a successful 

facilities. The Company does, however, rely on 

third-party operated export infrastructure that 

has been susceptible to interruptions.

drilling outcome.

•  Operational risks

•  Financial risks

•  Strategic risks

•  Operational risks

•  External risks

•  Financial risks

•  Strategic risks

the E&A potential within Seplat’s portfolio

•  Execute plans to drill one exploration well a 

year as oil prices and free cash flow permit

•  Improve efficiency with new technology 

•  Amukpe-Escravos Pipeline delayed but 

expected to become operational in H2 2021, 

providing a more reliable export route 

•  Develop new export routes

•  Increase contribution of gas

Outlook

•  Continued evaluation and high-grading of  

•  Continue to pursue cost-saving initiatives

Measuring our performance

•  Reserves replacement

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Value creation

GENERATING VALUE 
FOR ALL OF OUR 
STAKEHOLDERS

Inputs  
Resources and Relationships

Value Creation Strategy

Unified and motivated 
workforce
500+

multi-discipline employees

Operational expertise  
and control
81%

of production is under Seplat's control

Strong financial management 
and access to capital
$259m

Cash at bank

Effective HSSE and  
risk management
0.00 

LTIF

Good corporate governance
88%

Corporate Governance  
Risk Rating System

Strong relationships  
with host communities
$14.7m

invested in our communities in 2020

Acquire

Our expertise

Acquire 
We have an enviable track 
record of acquiring assets  
that create value through our 
transformational expertise  
in getting the most out of  
the ground.

Explore & appraise 
The addition of Eland has 
added significant subsurface 
expertise that will allow us to 
maximise exploration and 
development opportunities 
across our expanding portfolio.

Develop 
Despite the challenging 
conditions we drilled eight  
new wells in 2020, recognising 
our need for continuous 
development of our assets  
to ensure future streams  
of oil and gas that drive 
profitable cash flow.

Produce, process & sell 
We aim to maximise production 
of oil and reduce downstream 
losses wherever possible, if 
necessary by developing our 
own infrastructure. Our ANOH 
gas development will increase 
our share of the Nigerian  
power market.

Our strategic pillars

Seplat’s value creation 
strategy is the day-to-day 
execution of the five strategic 
pillars that underpin and  
guide our business activities. 
They express the priorities we 
have as a business to grow 
profitably but responsibly, 
increase our reach and scope 
and share our success with  
our stakeholders.

  See page 16

1

Increase our  
resources

We must replenish our 
reserves and increase them 
if we are to maintain growth. 
We aim to drill at least one 
exploration well per year, 
focusing on prospects that 
offer rapid and low-cost 
production, using existing 
infrastructure if possible.  
We will also acquire new 
assets where appropriate. 

18

Explore & appraise

2 

Increase production 
and improve its 
profitability

Maximise profitability and 
return on investment by 
delivering development 
projects on time and within 
budget. Once operational, 
extract the maximum volume 
of hydrocarbons for lowest 
possible cost. On evacuation, 
we must maximise uptime 
and reduce reconciliation 
losses, if necessary 
developing our own export 
routes to reduce reliance on 
third-party infrastructure.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Our business model leverages our core strengths, 
relationships and experience to create long-term value 
and shared prosperity for all of our stakeholders.

Our competitive 
advantages 

Industry expertise 
We are Nigeria’s leading 
independent oil and gas 
producer with a long track 
record of expertise in the 
geology and business of 
Nigerian oil and gas. We build 
on this expertise every day.

Strong relationships 
We are a trusted partner to the 
Nigerian Government and to 
other operators in the region. 
Our ANOH project is classed 
as strategically important  
for Nigeria, to which we are 
leading supplier of gas. 

Low-cost production 
Our focus is on maximising 
output for the lowest cost  
and this enables us to remain 
profitable even at the low  
oil prices experienced in the 
second quarter of 2020.

Strong cash generation 
Our prudent approach to 
investment and low cost base 
enable strong cash generation 
to repay debt, invest for the 
future and pay dividends. This 
gives us the strength to tap 
capital markets when needed. 

5

Behave responsibly, 
and share our 
success

Being responsible and 
accountable is a priority, 
minimising our impact on the 
environment, understanding 
local issues, positively 
contributing to our host 
communities, being a 
first-rate employer and 
providing our staff with a  
safe working environment 
and career development 
opportunities. We will share 
our success with our staff, 
community, shareholders 
and Nigeria.

Outputs in 2020:  
What we delivered

For our shareholders

– Capital growth 
– Dividends
$59m 

Dividends paid to 
shareholders in 2020

For government

– Royalty and tax revenue 
–  Foreign and local capital 

investments
$564m 

Payments and production  
entitlement to government  
reported in 2020

For Nigeria

– Infrastructure development 
–  Multiplier effect from 

improved gas-to-power supply
1/3 

of Nigeria’s current power generation can 
be underpinned by our gas production

For our host communities

– Economic empowerment 
– Healthcare and education
c.20,000

Jobs created by Seplat’s operations

For our employees

– Training and development 
– Shares awarded
26,241

hours of employee training in 2020

19

Develop

Produce, process &sell

3

Develop gas to 
drive Nigeria’s 
energy transition

Growing our gas business 
will deliver multiple benefits 
such as protection from  
oil price volatility, greater 
earnings visibility, higher 
cash generation and cleaner 
production. Our 465MMscfd 
Oben Gas Processing Plant, 
one of Nigeria’s largest, will 
soon be augmented by OML 
53’s new 300MMscfd ANOH 
facility, coming onstream  
in late 2021. 

4

Pursue profitable 
new opportunities

There are opportunities for 
growth in Nigeria including 
future licensing rounds, asset 
divestments, asset farm-ins 
and acquisition opportunities 
amongst independent E&P 
companies. We will also  
look for new opportunities 
outside Nigeria and in 
renewable energy to ensure 
we are a major player in this 
important and potentially  
very profitable sector. 

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Key Performance Indicators

MEASURING  
OUR PROGRESS

Key performance indicator

Working interest production 
(boepd) 

 Gas 

 Oil  

2P reserves movement 
(% increase/decrease)

 Gas 

 Oil  

51,183  +10.1%

499   

-2.0%

2020

  17,469

  33,714

  51,183

2020

258

2019

 22,563

 23,935

 46,498

2019

257

2018

24,198

 25,669

 49,867

2018

254

241

252

227

  499

 509

 481

Production opex  

($/boe)

8.90   

EBIT  

($m)

-32 

+44%

-110%

(number of incidents  per million man hours)

LTIF  

0   

Year-on-year progress

 In line with expectations

 Below expectations

 Below expectations

 Below expectations

 In line with expectations

Linked to remuneration?

 (See page 121)

 (See page 121)

 (See page 121)

 (See page 121)

Delivering on our strategic pillars

1 2 3 4

1 3 4

Definition

Relevance

Progress

Outlook

Risk management

 See page 24

20

The Company’s share of oil and gas produced 
during the year proportionate to its working 
interest in each producing block. Volumes 
expressed are as measured at the Company’s 
facilities, prior to any reconciliation losses.

The number of barrels of oil equivalent  
added to the 2P reserves base during  
the year, expressed as a percentage  
increase/decrease.

An indicator of production strength at the 
Company’s current blocks and the impact  
of development activities at organic and 
inorganic projects. 

An indicator of the Company’s ability to 
capitalise on organic opportunities within 
its portfolio and inorganic opportunities 
to replenish its reserves base.

Working-interest production averaged 51,183 
boepd, with liquids up 40.9% reflecting the 
first-time contribution of the acquired Eland 
assets, whilst gas production was down 22.9% 
because of Q1 maintenance and the impact of 
Covid-19 on the economy. The overall 10.1% 
increase on 2019 was achieved despite 
constrained production levels in Nigeria 
following cuts in OPEC+ production quotas and 
tank-top issues at the terminal arising from the 
pandemic and the general impact of Covid-19 on 
operations. There was 83% uptime for the Trans 
Forcados Pipeline and liquid volumes from OMLs 
4, 38 and 41 had 9.4% reconciliation losses.

The Company expects to drill eight oil wells and 
three gas wells in 2021 to achieve working 
interest production in the range 48-55Kboepd.

Working interest 2P reserves at the end 2020 
stood at 499MMboe, a 2% decrease on 2019. 
The change represents an organic decrease in 
overall 2P reserves of 1.9% year-on-year, due  
to production of 12.3MMbbls but mitigated by 
revisions of previous estimates. 

A working interest 2C resource base of 
95MMboe, comprising 59.7MMbbls oil and 
condensate and 203Bscf gas, offers good 
long-term reserves with significant growth 
potential. Sanctioning of additional exploration 
projects will increase Seplat’s reserves further. 
The Company will also continue to evaluate 
acquisition opportunities and undertake a 
focused E&A drilling programme.   

The Company has in depth understanding of the 
subsurface and constantly monitors individual 
well and reservoir performance in order to 
optimise the drawdown rate on each well and 
maximise long-term economic recovery of oil 
and gas from the reservoirs. It has also 
prioritised the establishment of alternative oil 
export routes to mitigate high concentration risk.

The Company high grades its inventory of 
exploration and appraisal opportunities,  
each being subject to rigorous technical and 
commercial evaluation to de-risk as far as 
possible prior to committing capital. When 
evaluating new acquisitions the Company is 
careful to maintain price discipline and 
undertakes rigorous analysis.

The operating costs (excluding non-cash flow 

The Company’s earnings before the deduction of 

The number of lost time incidents recorded per 

interest and tax expenses.

million man hours worked.

expenses, and financing costs) net to the 

Company divided by the Company’s working 

interest barrels of oil and equivalent produced 

in the period. 

An indicator of how cost efficiently the Company 

An indicator of the Company’s earnings ability. 

An indicator of health and safety performance 

is able to produce its oil and gas reserves. By 

An increase in EBIT requires growth in revenue 

that is widely established within the oil and 

controlling its operating cost base the Company 

and/or strong cost control.

gas industry.

is able to be more resilient to periods of 

depressed oil prices.

On a cost-per-barrel basis, production opex was 

After adjusting for non-cash impairments and 

Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF) has dropped 

higher at $8.90/boe because of the effect of 

OPEC+ restrictions that curtailed production 

volumes, as well as the trucking and barging 

costs at Gbetiokun on OML 40. However, 

fair value losses, the operating profit was $121.4 

steadily from 0.33 in 2016 to 0 in 2019. This was 

million. Including all adjustments, the operating 

also sustained in 2020.

loss for the year was $31.7 million (operating 

profit 2019: $311.9 million). The loss reflects 

benefits of the successful streamlining of the 

lower oil prices realised and an impairment 

Gbetiokun operations have driven barging costs 

provision of $144.3 million booked in the period, 

down from $14/bbl to $5/bbl. 

which includes a non-financial asset charge of 

$114.4 million (IAS 36) and financial asset 

charges of $29.9 million (IFRS 9).

The Company remains focused on cost control. 

Higher oil prices, improved production, 

Whilst increases in certain cost components are 

continuing tight cost controls and growth in  

In 2020 efforts will continue to minimise the 

frequency of lost time incidents in all areas  

expected year-on-year there are areas where 

gas production will drive earnings potential in 

of operations to achieve the zero target for 

downwards pressure can be applied with 

the objective of achieving a stable unit cost.

the future.

incidence. The Company will continue to  

ensure high HSE standards are met and  

assess opportunities to constantly improve  

its HSE systems and protocols.

The Company carefully monitors expenditures 

The Company has robust financial processes in 

The Company has in place extensive and  

and continually analyses its underlying cost 

place and carefully monitors revenues, cost of 

base, making comparisons to prevailing market 

sales and admin costs to ensure continued 

rates in order to ensure that the Company is 

identifying and able to action cost saving and 

efficiency gains, keeping it competitively 

positioned on the cost curve.

strong profitability. Oil price is a major 

influencing factor on the Company’s revenue. 

The Company analyses hedging strategies to 

help mitigate exposure to oil price volatility.

well developed HSE policies and reporting 

procedures with an emphasis on the early 

identification and mitigation of HSE risks.  

The Company closely monitors its HSE 

performance and is constantly evaluating  

ways to improve its performance.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key performance indicator

Working interest production 

 Gas 

 Oil  

2P reserves movement 

 Gas 

 Oil  

(boepd) 

51,183  +10.1%

(% increase/decrease)

499   

-2.0%

Production opex  
($/boe)

8.90   

2020

2019

2018

EBIT  
($m)

-32 

+44%

  8.90

2020

  -32

 6.20

 5.77

2019

2018

Strategic pillars

1

2

3

4

5

Increase our resources

Increase production and improve its profitability

Develop gas to drive Nigeria’s energy transition

Pursue profitable new opportunities

Behave responsibly, and share our success

 See page 16

LTIF  
(number of incidents  per million man hours)

-110%

0   

2020   0

2019

 0

2018

 312

 310

 0.14

Year-on-year progress

 In line with expectations

 Below expectations

 Below expectations

 Below expectations

 In line with expectations

Linked to remuneration?

 (See page 121)

 (See page 121)

 (See page 121)

 (See page 121)

Delivering on our strategic pillars

2 3 4

2 3 4

1 2 3 4 5

Definition

Relevance

Progress

The Company’s share of oil and gas produced 

The number of barrels of oil equivalent  

during the year proportionate to its working 

interest in each producing block. Volumes 

added to the 2P reserves base during  

the year, expressed as a percentage  

expressed are as measured at the Company’s 

increase/decrease.

facilities, prior to any reconciliation losses.

An indicator of production strength at the 

Company’s current blocks and the impact  

of development activities at organic and 

inorganic projects. 

An indicator of the Company’s ability to 

capitalise on organic opportunities within 

its portfolio and inorganic opportunities 

to replenish its reserves base.

Working interest 2P reserves at the end 2020 

stood at 499MMboe, a 2% decrease on 2019. 

The change represents an organic decrease in 

overall 2P reserves of 1.9% year-on-year, due  

to production of 12.3MMbbls but mitigated by 

revisions of previous estimates. 

Working-interest production averaged 51,183 

boepd, with liquids up 40.9% reflecting the 

first-time contribution of the acquired Eland 

assets, whilst gas production was down 22.9% 

because of Q1 maintenance and the impact of 

Covid-19 on the economy. The overall 10.1% 

increase on 2019 was achieved despite 

constrained production levels in Nigeria 

following cuts in OPEC+ production quotas and 

tank-top issues at the terminal arising from the 

pandemic and the general impact of Covid-19 on 

operations. There was 83% uptime for the Trans 

Forcados Pipeline and liquid volumes from OMLs 

4, 38 and 41 had 9.4% reconciliation losses.

Outlook

The Company expects to drill eight oil wells and 

A working interest 2C resource base of 

three gas wells in 2021 to achieve working 

95MMboe, comprising 59.7MMbbls oil and 

interest production in the range 48-55Kboepd.

condensate and 203Bscf gas, offers good 

long-term reserves with significant growth 

potential. Sanctioning of additional exploration 

projects will increase Seplat’s reserves further. 

The Company will also continue to evaluate 

acquisition opportunities and undertake a 

focused E&A drilling programme.   

Risk management

 See page 24

The Company has in depth understanding of the 

The Company high grades its inventory of 

subsurface and constantly monitors individual 

exploration and appraisal opportunities,  

well and reservoir performance in order to 

optimise the drawdown rate on each well and 

maximise long-term economic recovery of oil 

and gas from the reservoirs. It has also 

each being subject to rigorous technical and 

commercial evaluation to de-risk as far as 

possible prior to committing capital. When 

evaluating new acquisitions the Company is 

prioritised the establishment of alternative oil 

careful to maintain price discipline and 

export routes to mitigate high concentration risk.

undertakes rigorous analysis.

The operating costs (excluding non-cash flow 
expenses, and financing costs) net to the 
Company divided by the Company’s working 
interest barrels of oil and equivalent produced 
in the period. 

An indicator of how cost efficiently the Company 
is able to produce its oil and gas reserves. By 
controlling its operating cost base the Company 
is able to be more resilient to periods of 
depressed oil prices.

On a cost-per-barrel basis, production opex was 
higher at $8.90/boe because of the effect of 
OPEC+ restrictions that curtailed production 
volumes, as well as the trucking and barging 
costs at Gbetiokun on OML 40. However, 
benefits of the successful streamlining of the 
Gbetiokun operations have driven barging costs 
down from $14/bbl to $5/bbl. 

The Company’s earnings before the deduction of 
interest and tax expenses.

The number of lost time incidents recorded per 
million man hours worked.

An indicator of the Company’s earnings ability. 
An increase in EBIT requires growth in revenue 
and/or strong cost control.

An indicator of health and safety performance 
that is widely established within the oil and 
gas industry.

After adjusting for non-cash impairments and 
fair value losses, the operating profit was $121.4 
million. Including all adjustments, the operating 
loss for the year was $31.7 million (operating 
profit 2019: $311.9 million). The loss reflects 
lower oil prices realised and an impairment 
provision of $144.3 million booked in the period, 
which includes a non-financial asset charge of 
$114.4 million (IAS 36) and financial asset 
charges of $29.9 million (IFRS 9).

Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF) has dropped 
steadily from 0.33 in 2016 to 0 in 2019. This was 
also sustained in 2020.

The Company remains focused on cost control. 
Whilst increases in certain cost components are 
expected year-on-year there are areas where 
downwards pressure can be applied with 
the objective of achieving a stable unit cost.

Higher oil prices, improved production, 
continuing tight cost controls and growth in  
gas production will drive earnings potential in 
the future.

In 2020 efforts will continue to minimise the 
frequency of lost time incidents in all areas  
of operations to achieve the zero target for 
incidence. The Company will continue to  
ensure high HSE standards are met and  
assess opportunities to constantly improve  
its HSE systems and protocols.

The Company carefully monitors expenditures 
and continually analyses its underlying cost 
base, making comparisons to prevailing market 
rates in order to ensure that the Company is 
identifying and able to action cost saving and 
efficiency gains, keeping it competitively 
positioned on the cost curve.

The Company has robust financial processes in 
place and carefully monitors revenues, cost of 
sales and admin costs to ensure continued 
strong profitability. Oil price is a major 
influencing factor on the Company’s revenue. 
The Company analyses hedging strategies to 
help mitigate exposure to oil price volatility.

The Company has in place extensive and  
well developed HSE policies and reporting 
procedures with an emphasis on the early 
identification and mitigation of HSE risks.  
The Company closely monitors its HSE 
performance and is constantly evaluating  
ways to improve its performance.

21

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additional performance metrics

TRACKING OUR 
PERFORMANCE

Key performance indicator

Net cash flow from operations 
(US$m)

Capital expenditure  
(US$m)

309      -8.60%

150

2020

2019

2018

  309

 338

 502

2020

2019

2018

  150

 125

 88

Delivering on our strategic pillars

2 3 4

1 2 3 4

The Company’s operating cash flow in the year 
before taking into account movements in 
working capital. 

The total amount of capital expenditure made 
during the year, excluding acquisition costs.

Strong underlying wellhead oil production 
capacity and anticipated future growth in gas 
production will ensure continued robust cash 
flow generation. Development of the recently 
acquired OML 40 block together with OML 53 
and OPL 283 will also significantly augment 
future cash flow potential. 

Net cash flows from operating activities,  
after movements in working capital, were 
$308.7 million (2019: $337.8 million). An income 
tax payment of $10.4 million was made in the 
period (2019: $3.5 million). The Group received 
$188.1 million from the major JV towards the 
settlement of outstanding Dollar-denominated 
cash calls and $154.2 million (Naira equivalent) 
to offset Naira cash calls totalling $342.3 million 
received in 2020. This compares favourably to 
$179 million received in 2019. The major JV 
receivable balance now stands at $107.0 million, 
down from $222.3 million at the end of 2019. 

The Company has budgeted to drill at least six 
oil and three gas wells in 2021 to achieve an 
average net working interest of between 
48-55kboepd.

The Company has in depth understanding of the 
subsurface and constantly monitors individual 
well and reservoir performance in order to 
optimise the drawdown rate on each well and 
maximise long-term economic recovery of oil 
and gas from the reservoirs. It has also 
prioritised the establishment of alternative  
oil export routes to mitigate high 
concentration risk.

An indicator of the Company’s level of 
investment activities in production, 
development and exploration and 
appraisal activities.

Capital expenditures were $150.1 million in 2020 
and included costs of around $83.5 million for 
drilling and completion of nine wells including 
three gas wells (completion of Oben 48; Oben 49 
and Oben 50) and six development oil wells 
(Sapele-35, Ovhor-6ST, Ovhor-20, Ohaji 
South-5, Ohaji South-6 and Gbetiokun-5) that 
were completed earlier in the year. Associated 
facilities and engineering costs amounted to 
$61.3 million.

The Company will continue to invest in the 
development of its portfolio, allocating capital 
to the opportunities that offer the best returns 
and volume growth potential whilst scaling and 
timing investments at appropriate levels to 
closely match cash flow generation.

Project investments are monitored closely 
against budgets to minimise the risk of 
over-runs. The Company benchmarks every 
investment opportunity to ensure capital is 
deployed to only the highest return projects,  
and adheres to a price disciplined 
acquisition strategy.

Definition

Relevance

Progress

Outlook

Risk management

 See page 24

22

Realised oil price  

($/bbl)

39.95 

Staff turnover  

(%)

4.45

-38%

The average oil price per barrel sold by the 

Company during the period.

The rate at which full time staff of Seplat choose 

to leave the Company voluntarily, expressed as a 

percentage of average full time headcount 

during the year.

The Company’s financial performance is closely 

An indicator of the Company’s ability to attract 

linked to the oil price.

and retain personnel. The loss of people can 

result in skills shortage, loss of knowledge and 

higher recruitment costs.

The Brent oil price averaged $43.21/bbl over 

The Company has continued to develop its 

2020 (2019: $64.04/bbl). Brent remained volatile 

employment policies with the aim of attracting 

throughout the year, following the twin shocks 

and retaining high calibre industry talent. Staff 

turnover remained low in 2020 at 4.5%.

of the Saudi Arabia – Russia price war and the 

Covid-19 pandemic, trading between a high of 

$68.91/bbl in January and a low of $19.33/bbl  

in April, before exiting the year at $51.80/bbl.

The Company has historically sold its produced 

The industry is still expected, over the longer 

oil under the Forcados blend that has generally 

term, to continue to face skills shortages in key 

received a premium to a Brent marker price. Oil 

areas with competition for high performing 

individuals amongst competitors being intense.

prices are expected to remain subject to 

macroeconomic volatility, but have recovered 

strongly from the lows of last year’s pandemic 

and associated price and supply war.

The management continue to closely  

monitor prevailing oil market dynamics  

and will consider further measures and take 

The Company’s policy is to provide industry 

competitive benefits packages and provide 

progressive career opportunities to retain  

advantage of opportune periods to implement 

and attract high performing employees.

additional hedges to provide appropriate levels 

of cash flow assurance.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Key performance indicator

(US$m)

Net cash flow from operations 

Capital expenditure  

309      -8.60%

(US$m)

150

Delivering on our strategic pillars

Definition

Relevance

Progress

Risk management

 See page 24

working capital. 

Strong underlying wellhead oil production 

capacity and anticipated future growth in gas 

production will ensure continued robust cash 

flow generation. Development of the recently 

acquired OML 40 block together with OML 53 

and OPL 283 will also significantly augment 

future cash flow potential. 

An indicator of the Company’s level of 

investment activities in production, 

development and exploration and 

appraisal activities.

Net cash flows from operating activities,  

after movements in working capital, were 

Capital expenditures were $150.1 million in 2020 

and included costs of around $83.5 million for 

$308.7 million (2019: $337.8 million). An income 

drilling and completion of nine wells including 

tax payment of $10.4 million was made in the 

three gas wells (completion of Oben 48; Oben 49 

period (2019: $3.5 million). The Group received 

and Oben 50) and six development oil wells 

$188.1 million from the major JV towards the 

(Sapele-35, Ovhor-6ST, Ovhor-20, Ohaji 

settlement of outstanding Dollar-denominated 

South-5, Ohaji South-6 and Gbetiokun-5) that 

cash calls and $154.2 million (Naira equivalent) 

were completed earlier in the year. Associated 

to offset Naira cash calls totalling $342.3 million 

facilities and engineering costs amounted to 

received in 2020. This compares favourably to 

$61.3 million.

$179 million received in 2019. The major JV 

receivable balance now stands at $107.0 million, 

down from $222.3 million at the end of 2019. 

oil and three gas wells in 2021 to achieve an 

average net working interest of between 

48-55kboepd.

development of its portfolio, allocating capital 

to the opportunities that offer the best returns 

and volume growth potential whilst scaling and 

timing investments at appropriate levels to 

closely match cash flow generation.

The Company has in depth understanding of the 

Project investments are monitored closely 

subsurface and constantly monitors individual 

against budgets to minimise the risk of 

well and reservoir performance in order to 

optimise the drawdown rate on each well and 

maximise long-term economic recovery of oil 

and gas from the reservoirs. It has also 

over-runs. The Company benchmarks every 

investment opportunity to ensure capital is 

deployed to only the highest return projects,  

and adheres to a price disciplined 

prioritised the establishment of alternative  

acquisition strategy.

oil export routes to mitigate high 

concentration risk.

Outlook

The Company has budgeted to drill at least six 

The Company will continue to invest in the 

In addition to its key performance 
indicators, Seplat also tracks performance 
against additional metrics that further 
assist in measuring progress.

Realised oil price  
($/bbl)

39.95 

  39.95

2020

2019

2018

Staff turnover  
(%)

4.45

2020

2019

2018

-38%

 64.4

 70.1

1 2 3 4

2 3 4 5

Strategic pillars

1

2

3

4

5

Increase our resources

Increase production and improve its profitability

Develop gas to drive Nigeria’s energy transition

Pursue profitable new opportunities

Behave responsibly, and share our success

4.45

 3.6

 2.2

 See page 16

The Company’s operating cash flow in the year 

The total amount of capital expenditure made 

before taking into account movements in 

during the year, excluding acquisition costs.

The average oil price per barrel sold by the 
Company during the period.

The Company’s financial performance is closely 
linked to the oil price.

The rate at which full time staff of Seplat choose 
to leave the Company voluntarily, expressed as a 
percentage of average full time headcount 
during the year.

An indicator of the Company’s ability to attract 
and retain personnel. The loss of people can 
result in skills shortage, loss of knowledge and 
higher recruitment costs.

The Brent oil price averaged $43.21/bbl over 
2020 (2019: $64.04/bbl). Brent remained volatile 
throughout the year, following the twin shocks 
of the Saudi Arabia – Russia price war and the 
Covid-19 pandemic, trading between a high of 
$68.91/bbl in January and a low of $19.33/bbl  
in April, before exiting the year at $51.80/bbl.

The Company has continued to develop its 
employment policies with the aim of attracting 
and retaining high calibre industry talent. Staff 
turnover remained low in 2020 at 4.5%.

The Company has historically sold its produced 
oil under the Forcados blend that has generally 
received a premium to a Brent marker price. Oil 
prices are expected to remain subject to 
macroeconomic volatility, but have recovered 
strongly from the lows of last year’s pandemic 
and associated price and supply war.

The management continue to closely  
monitor prevailing oil market dynamics  
and will consider further measures and take 
advantage of opportune periods to implement 
additional hedges to provide appropriate levels 
of cash flow assurance.

The industry is still expected, over the longer 
term, to continue to face skills shortages in key 
areas with competition for high performing 
individuals amongst competitors being intense.

The Company’s policy is to provide industry 
competitive benefits packages and provide 
progressive career opportunities to retain  
and attract high performing employees.

23

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Risk management

Basil Omiyi 
Chairman, Risk Management  
and HSSE Committee

PROTECTING  
OUR BUSINESS 

Managing risk in protecting our business
Risk management is an integral part of all 
business activities of Seplat. The Company’s 
risk-management policy is focused on the 
early identification of risks and future risks 
that are central to achieving its strategy, 
corporate objectives and annual business 
plans; their possible impacts on the 
business and measures that can be 
implemented to mitigate the identified risks 
so that Seplat can continue to operate safely 
and effectively. 

Seplat recognises that risk management is  
a continuous journey of improvement and not 
a destination and will continue to develop its 
risk management processes to ensure the 
Company is fully equipped to deal with the 
constantly evolving operating and business 
environment of the oil and gas industry.

Our risk management framework 
ISO 31000 based, top-down and bottom-up approach

Strong and effective risk 
management is central to 
how we run our business 
and enables the delivery 
of our strategy.

Board of Directors
 – Company strategy 

 – Risk appetite 

 – Strategic risks oversight

Risk Management and HSSE Committee of the Board
 – Approves and update risk management policy and system 

 – Defines risk appetite  

 – Oversees and monitors enterprise risks

Executive Management
 – Delivery of Company 

strategy 

Risk Management Team
 – Coordinate enterprise risk 
management activities

 –  Identify key risks against 

 – Articulate and update  

the  achievement of 
strategy 

risk management policy  
and system

 – Proffer and deploy 

 –  Risk identification, 

actions and  controls to 
address key risks 

assessment, quantification 
and rating 

 – Monitor enterprise risks

 – Risk reporting and 

monitoring

 –  Enterprise risk register  

and dashboard 

 – Risk champion activities

Business Units
 – Business objectives

 – Risk identification, assessment and rating

 – Mitigation actions and controls 

 – Monitor risks and mitigation actions

 – Report risks and mitigation actions status

Internal 
Audit
 – Independent 
 assurance 

 – Reports to 
Audit  and 
Finance 
 Committees   
of the Board

Risk identification, monitoring, mitigation action implementation and monitoring  
are bottom-up from assets, projects and function levels

Key principles that underpin the 
Company’s risk management 
framework and system:

• Strong focus on safety 

throughout the organisation.

• Close oversight by senior 

management in day-to-day 
business operations.

• ‘Risk owners’ throughout  

the business.

• Accountability of staff  
and/or key personnel.

• Regular and timely reporting.

• Clear line of sight on the system 

of internal controls.

• Monitoring and independent 

reviews.

24

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Our risk management system
The Company’s risk management system is 
based on guidelines provided in ISO 31000, the 
international standards for risk management. 
The system is built on top-down and 
bottom-up approach with the Board of 
Directors (Board) determining the right risk 
appetite necessary to achieve the Company’s 
corporate objectives while the business units 
identify and mitigate risks at the unit and 
asset levels.

The Risk Management and HSSE Committee 
assists the Board in overseeing the Company’s 
risk management framework and the risk/
reward strategy as determined by the Board. 
The Committee ensures that the Company has 
adequate risk management system in place to 
manage the diverse and changing risks and 
opportunities faced by the Company as it 
creates value for shareholders. It meets at 
least three times in a year to analyse and 
evaluate the Company’s key risk profiles, 
proposed mitigation strategies, mitigation 
actions taken by management and any 
residual risk exposures. 

The meetings are attended by Executive 
Directors who have accountability for 
ensuring that risk identification is 
comprehensive and proposing mitigating 
measures that are effective in achieving the 
desired objectives. Reports on the Company’s 
corporate risk register, key risk exposures in 
the business operations and reviews of its 
risk management systems are compiled  
and presented to the Board of Directors.

While key risks and associated risk appetites 
are determined at the top, the business units 
and functional managers are accountable for 
the respective risks within their areas. The 
Company’s enterprise risk management 
(ERM) system, coordinated by the Head, 
Enterprise Risk Management and overseen 
by the Risk Management and HSSE 
Committee, supports risk management 
across the business and functions. The 
Company’s ERM includes a robust risk 
identification, assessment, reporting and 
monitoring mechanisms and approaches that 
include maintenance of both corporate and 
functional/operational levels risk registers, 
risk dashboard, mitigation actions monitoring 
and risk reporting. 

In a bid to continually embed risk 
management across the business and 
functions, the Company utilises specially 
appointed and trained Risk Champions to 
ensure common methodology, language  
and approach in the way risks are managed 
across the business.

The Internal Audit unit undertakes periodic 
audits of the various business units including 
the Company’s corporate governance 
systems and risk management processes. 

The Company’s risk 
management policy is 
focused on the early 
identification of risks  
and future risks that are 
central to achieving its 
strategy, corporate 
objectives and annual 
business plans…

Activities in 2020
During the year 2020, our risk landscape 
remained largely stable with respect to 
existing exposures since our last update  
in 2019. However, an unprecedented 
infectious disease outbreak that emerged 
and escalated during the first quarter, 
leading to WHO declaring it a pandemic, 
introduced a new outlook to the risk 
landscape. Accordingly, the key highlight  
of this update is on the infectious diseases 
outbreak (Covid-19), a new risk item now 
included for monitoring and management  
on the enterprise risk dashboard. We also 
introduce two new risk items, viz, OPEC 
quota restriction, as well as Climate Change, 
a risk drawing increasing global attention.

Outbreak of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that 
causes the Covid-19 illness was first 
declared by the World Health Organization 
on 31 December 2019. Since that date, the 
virus has infected over 104 million and killed 
more than 2.2 million persons. Responses 
from around the world varied but were 
largely non-pharmaceutical until about 
August 2020 when the first vaccine against 
the virus was produced and deployed in 
Russia. To date although many countries 
have vaccination programmes underway, 
much of the world is still struggling with the 
virus which has now mutated into different 
variants originating in South Africa and  
the United Kingdom.

Various governments around the world have 
responded differently to the management  
of the pandemic. While some countries 
followed directive of the World Health 
Organization on recommended preventive 
measures, some others chose to approach  
it differently. In one or two other instances, 
the leaders chose to do nothing for a long 
time. These discretionary approach to 
management of the pandemic resulted in  
the level of infection and casualties that  
the illness has claimed to date.

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) 
through the Presidential Task Force (PTF)  
on Covid-19 introduced several measures  
to manage the pandemic locally. These 
measures worked to a large extent for the 
first wave of the pandemic until when the 
second wave set in around November 2020 
and the number of infected persons and 
casualties escalated thereafter. NAFDAC 
has indicated that no vaccine has been 
approved for use in Nigeria except those  
that have been imported by FGN. 

In the wake of the ongoing pandemic,  
Seplat Leadership through the COVIMOG 
and in collaboration with Human Resources 
and the Operations teams have sustained 
the Company’s business throughout  
the pandemic period and observed all 
recommended preventive measures advised 
by both the PTF and State Governments. 

Accordingly, the Company’s operations were 
therefore not significantly impacted during 
the year 2020, as production operations, as 
well as delivery of target capital projects and 
new production wells, continued unabated. 
Our robust business continuity plans also 
enabled staff to work from home with secure 
IT infrastructure.

Overall, in 2020, the Committee analysed and 
evaluated the various key risk exposures for 
the Company. In doing so, the Corporate Risk 
Register was reviewed, and the risk reports 
presented by management. These reports 
detail the key risks, the potential impact of 
the risks and the likelihood of occurrence. 
Mitigating strategies were comprehensively 
considered, including but not limited to those 
related to the stability in the Niger Delta, oil 
price volatility, export line breaches and 
alternative crude oil evacuation options. 
Other risks considered are Government and 
JV relations management, liquidity, market, 
contractual and litigation risks. The status 
and effectiveness of mitigation actions were 
reviewed, and any residual gaps or follow-up 
actions were identified. Key performance 
indicators as well as other risk indicators and 
trends were monitored. Key risks requiring 
risk tolerance considerations and strategic 
actions were presented to and debated by 
the Board.

The Committee reviewed the risk 
management systems including the risk 
dashboard and assessment tables. The 
Committee gave further consideration  
to the achievements made by the Risk 
Champions appointed with a view to unify 
risk management approaches and embed 
risk culture across the organisation.

25

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Risk management  | continued

HIGH-PROFILE RISKS 
AND UNCERTAINTIES

Highlighted below are the high-profile risks that the Company  
dealt with in 2020 and will continue to monitor going into 2021.

In Nigeria, the rise of the virus was initially 
slow, but the month of March 2020 
witnessed a sharp rise of cases of those 
infected, affecting up to the presidency. 
Seplat demonstrated support to the nation 
and states of its operation (Edo, Delta & Imo) 
by making notable cash donations during Q1 
2020, at the national and state levels, 
respectively aimed at curbing the spread  
of Covid-19 disease. 

At the national level, the donation was 
consolidated into the pool of funds the Oil 
Producers Trade Section (OPTS) put together 
to assist the Federal Government on behalf 
of the Oil and Gas Industry. At the state level, 
the donation was used to provide specific 
requirements by each host community  
state covering two broad areas: 

• Provision of Personal Protective Equipment 
(PPE) and other medical accessories; and 

•  Creation of education and awareness 

through rigorous public enlightenment 
campaigns.

The risk was viewed from two key perspectives 
in relation to Seplat’s operations: 

1. Risk of an index case manifesting  
in Seplat offices or field locations 
This leading to an unsuccessful initial 
control of an index case (probably resulting 
in communal spread of the disease in the 
Seplat community as a result of late 
detection of secondary contact cases which 
may have had close contacts with an index 
case or close contacts from other external 
primary sources). Major effects of this may 
be near impossible or very long post-
epidemic economic recovery of the business 
resulting in liquidity crisis, overhead cuts 
and going concern issues. Also, the business 
may be badly hit if personnel productivity is 
severely impacted by increased lockdowns 
as a result of worsening spread of the virus. 

1.  Infectious Diseases 
Outbreak (Covid-19) 

The ongoing global impact of the 
Coronavirus Disease, declared a pandemic 
by the World Health Organization, triggered 
the need for businesses globally to put  
in place adequate business continuity 
strategies, in the wake of such similar 
outbreak of infectious diseases in the 
near future. 

The Covid-19 global pandemic swept  
at an alarming rate during the year 2020. 
The scourge of the virus, first recorded in 
Wuhan, China in December 2019 continued 
in an upward trajectory globally during  
the year 2020. According to WHO, the 
pandemic is manifesting in over 212 
countries and territories (152 of these  
with reported fatalities) in the world, 
crippling business activities and putting 
desperate amount of pressure on health 
infrastructures of nations. Worldwide, 
frantic efforts are being made by the 
medical and scientific communities  
to find a cure or at least a containment  
for the spread of the virus. 

26

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20202. Severe supply chain disruptions 
following prolonged outbreak of the 
disease resulting in adverse impact  
to the planned work programme
Resultant impact on sub-suppliers in the 
countries where the disease is severe leading 
to significant delays in the supply of items. 
This risk therefore covers the extent to which 
the disease will have an impact on all key 
projects of the Company as designed in the 
work programme (impacting the supply  
chain and major contractors scheduled to 
deliver in a few months). The ability of the 
contractors to deliver as scheduled is 
threatened leading to major delays and 
revisions to the project schedules.

Additional measures put in place include:

• Visitors are still not allowed in our offices 

except for critical business needs  
and clearance issued by the Human 
Resources team.

• Meetings and events continue to be held  
via electronic media. All indoor meetings 
take place by exception only and require 
approval from the Human Resources team. 
Attendance at such meetings are limited  
to not more than 20 persons including 
supporting personnel and all non-
pharmaceutical preventive measures are 
put in place to be observed throughout 
the event.

In terms of managing this exposure, Seplat 
has continued to maintain status quo on 
NCDC guidelines even in the wake of  
the second wave of the pandemic, at 
all locations. 

The Company’s existing risk management 
plans were able to activate the business 
continuity protocols and it has been a major 
achievement that the Management team 
has been able to run the Company so 
effectively even in the face of the 
implemented work from home policy. 

However, Seplat Leadership continues to 
monitor key indices in considering the return 
of office-based employees to the Company 
facilities, especially in the wake of the highly 
contagious second wave of the pandemic.  
As at year end, management has continued 
to maintain the work from home policy,  
until the indices give indication for 
re-consideration of a phased return  
to the office. 

With regards to field operations, normal  
crew change happens only after the 
incoming crew have taken the PCR test with 
the resultant negative result after 48 hours 
when it is expected that the test result 
should have been issued. This requirement  
is complemented by compliance with other 
established non-pharmaceutical measures 
of regular hand washing, hand sanitising, 
frequent cleaning of commonly touched 
surfaces, mandatory wearing of face  
masks and social distancing. Application of 
non-pharmaceutical preventive measures 
are mandatory in all the Company’s 
office environments. 

2.  Niger Delta stability/
extended production 
shut-in due to third-
party infrastructure 
downtime, and  
geo-political risk 

The risk of Niger Delta Militancy and 
extended production shut-in due to 
third-party interference, was consolidated 
at the year 2020 risk register review session 
with the operations/technical teams. Seplat 
core operations are located in the Niger 
Delta region of Nigeria and that comes  
with significant risks. 

Historically, the Niger Delta has always  
been a high-risk environment. Cases of 
militancy, crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, 
environmental pollution arising from illegal 
bunkering activities, and other lawless 
activities are rife in the region. However, in 
the year 2020, the business recorded zero 
occurrence in militancy activities, similar  
to the previous year 2019. Accordingly, the 
Trans Forcados export system (major export 
route for Seplat) remained operational 
throughout the year, with a remarkable 
uptime as with the previous year 2019. 

The Company, working with other industry 
players in the region, continued to put 
pressure on the Government to find a 
lasting solution to Niger Delta restiveness 
and the current security measures put in 
place by the facility operator, consolidated 
with the Government’s strategy of dialogue 
with stakeholders in the region seems to 
be working. 

With respect to extended production 
shut-in due to third-party interference,  
the third-party operated Trans Forcados 
export system remains Seplat’s primary 
crude evacuation for its main assets (OMLs 
4, 38 & 41) and this poses a significant risk 
to Seplat. The system was out of operation 
for more than a year between 2017 and 
2016 due to sustained breaches by the 
militants leading to extended shut-in 
of  production. 

Even though there was no major breach of 
the line in the year 2020, the risk remains 
significant. The Company is mitigating the 
risk by seeking a second major export line. 
The focus for the Company remains to have 
at its disposal, two major export systems 
to evacuate crude from its main assets.

3.  Low oil price 
environment

Seplat’s operating results are highly 
dependent on the prices of crude oil and 
natural gas. The Company’s estimated 
proved reserve, revenue, operating cash 
flows and margins, liquidity and future 
earnings are all impacted by the volatility  
of crude oil and natural gas prices. Seplat’s 
price risk management policy is to protect 
the Company’s crude oil cash flow from 
downside scenarios with hedging. During 
the year 2020, the volume of protection 
stood at c.67-80% and rose alongside the 
acquisition of Eland. This translates into 
purchasing between 2-2.5mmbbls/quarter 
of put protection. Overall, the Company 
protected about 6 million barrels of crude 
oil at an average strike of US$45/bbl in 
2020. Our long-term natural gas contracts 
have escalation clauses that protect the 
Company against severe price decline.

27

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Risk management  | continued

4.  OPEC quota 
restrictions 

A deep-dive assessment was conducted 
on the OPEC quota restrictions risk which 
was introduced in the third quarter of 2020. 
The risk is considered based on the impact 
due to production shut-in emanating as a 
result of the OPEC quota imposed on 
companies in the oil and gas sector. The 
Company continues to manage this risk 
through measured operational and 
commercial tactics and engagements  
with relevant industry regulators.

5.  Climate change

Seplat’s contribution to domestic  
gas/energy supply comes with some 
implications for climate change, as the gas 
production activities are accompanied by 
some gas flaring, which the Company has 
made concerted efforts to manage within 
the requirements of regulation. 

The risk considers the direct impact on the 
ecosystem as a result of heightened gas 
flaring activities, resulting in considerable 
weather (temperature) changes, major 
ecosystem collapse/damage with serious 
economic and social consequences, as 
well as biodiversity loss. 

A number of mitigation actions have been 
put in place to manage this risk. These 
include focus on the delivery on projects 
earmarked to reduce and or eliminate gas 
flaring as spelt out under the Company’s 
‘Gas Flares Out’ roadmap. The projects 
include (i) delivery of the LPG projects at 
Sapele and Oben, (ii) installation of booster 
compressors, and (iii) the Sapele 
Integrated Gas Plant project. 

Other actions include focused delivery on 
alternative options for cleaner energy. The 
Company has also put in place a calculator 
to estimate actual greenhouse gases 
emissions to determine actual carbon 
footprint/emissions and determine 
measures for reduction of greenhouse 
gases emissions.

28

6.  JV Receivable and 
future cash call 
funding

Seplat has the Nigerian Government as  
Joint Venture (JV) partner in significant  
parts of its business. Cash call funding from 
the Government partners has historically 
been poor, resulting in build-up of legacy  
cash call receivables over time. In 2020,  
the Government JV partners continued  
to remain current in paying cash calls. 
However, the risk of cash calls sliding back  
to pre-2019 practice of late payments is  
still there. To mitigate this exposure, the 
Company continues to manage its JV 
relationships very closely and actively 
engages the respective Government 
partners on timely payment of cash calls.

7.  Liquidity risk

The Trans Forcados Pipeline remained 
mostly operational throughout 2020 and  
this assisted Seplat’s liquidity position 
significantly in the year. We manage liquidity 
risk by ensuring that sufficient funds are 
available to meet commitments as they fall 
due, using both long-term and short-term 
cash flow projections to monitor funding 
requirements for activities; and to ensure 
there are sufficient cash resources to meet 
operational needs. Our cash flow projections 
take into consideration the Company’s debts 
and covenant compliance. Surplus cash held 
is transferred to the treasury department 
which invests in interest-bearing current 
accounts, time deposits and money 
market deposits.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Conclusion

In conclusion, the year 2020 was generally a 
challenging year for the oil and gas industry, 
following the unprecedented headwinds 
posed by oil price volatility occasioned by 
the shock of the Covid-19 pandemic. The 
debilitating impact of plummeting oil prices 
was exacerbated by the OPEC quota 
restrictions imposed in H2 2020. Despite 
these challenges faced, the Company 
demonstrated resilience and commitment  
to delivering the 2020 work programme while 
proactively monitoring and managing the 
threat of the Covid-19 pandemic across  
our operations. 

The OPEC quota restrictions was effectively 
managed through measured operational and 
commercial tactics and engagements with 
relevant industry regulators. Accordingly,  
the Company successfully drilled four oil  
and two gas wells across its portfolio and 
delivered a consolidated average oil and gas 
production within the full year guidance of 
48kboepd – 52kboepd. 

Other laudable achievements in 2020 were 
the safe completion of the first Turnaround 
Maintenance (TAM) for the Oben gas plant 
within schedule and cost, the successful 
implementation of Covid-19 protocols  
across the Company’s operations without 
interruption, laying of a foundation and 
renewed focus towards strengthening the 
Company’s approach and credibility on 
Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) 
issues in response to sustainability needs, 
as well as the introduction of the Company’s 
footprint and greenhouse gas (GHG) 
emissions quantification.

Overall, the Committee is satisfied that the 
Company has a robust Risk Management 
System that serves to ensure integrity of 
business processes, decisions and activities 
going into the future. The Company’s HSSE 
Management System is also mature and 
reliable and has continued to deliver good 
HSSE performance year-on-year. 

Basil Omiyi
Chairman, Risk Management  
and HSSE Committee

Mapping our risk
The mapping of our risks considered both quantitative and 
qualitative factors. Seplat’s risk mapping is underpinned by a 
two-factor spectrum – Likelihood and Impact, which are further 
plotted on the basis of Seplat 5x5 methodology, to arrive at a final 
assessment for each risk.

i

n
a
t
r
e
C

d
e
t
c
e
p
x
E

e
l
b
i
s
s
o
P

y
l
e
k
i
l

n
U

e
r
a
R

15 

16 

11 

17 

18 

5 

8 

1 

19 

14 

9 

12 

13 

4 

2 

6 

3 

7 

10 

Negligible

Minor

Moderate

Significant

Severe

Assessment
   Very high
   High
   Medium
   Low

Movement trend
  Decreasing
  Increasing
 Steady

29

TopicAssessmentTrend1.Infectious diseases outbreak in Seplat (Covid-19)2.Niger Delta militancy/third-party interference3.Portfolio concentration risk4.Sustaining E&A programme 5.Oil price volatility6.Merger & acquisition (M&A) risk7.Stakeholder management relationships8.HSSE risks9.Availability of capital10.Liquidity11.Changes to tax status and legislation12.Bribery and corruption risk13.Fraudulent activity risk14.Field operations and project deliverability15.Geopolitical risk16.Cost control risk17.Foreign exchange risk18.Information security risk19.Loss of key employeesStrategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Principal risks and uncertainties

MONITORING AND 
MITIGATING RISKS 
TO THE BUSINESS

Operational risks

Field operations and  
project deliverability

Third-party infrastructure downtime

HSSE risks

Infectious diseases outbreak in Seplat  

Sustaining E&A programme 

Description 
Failure to manage operational activities in line  
with planned expectations can lead to production 
misses, project delays and cost overruns, high 
production costs and earlier than expected field 
decommissioning. Risk also expanded to cover the 
emerging OPEC quota restriction risk on production, 
resulting in production shut-ins.

Description 
An over-reliance on third-party operated 
transportation infrastructure can expose the 
Company to an extended period of production  
being shut in.

Description 
Oil and gas activities carry significant levels of HSSE 
risks if not properly managed. As activity levels 
continue to increase there is a strong focus on 
preventing major environmental (including the 
emerging climate change – GHG emissions risk), 
health or safety incidents.

Mitigation 
Focus on risk management at planning phase  
and mitigation plans activated. Compulsory 
‘peer-to-peer’ review for high-value projects  
and better project management techniques. 
Protracted land acquisition, preparation and  
rig startup have been contributory factors which 
have received focused attention and significant 
process improvements and improved 
communications with JV partner and approving 
regulators to mitigate delays. Use of smart/
intelligent wells to improve recovery and 
improved rig performance monitoring and 
reporting to manage NPTs.

Mitigation 
Work is ongoing to secure a second export line  
to complement the Trans Forcados Pipeline. 
Continue to explore export via barging as a 
back-up option in extreme cases. Have two 
contingency tanks in Amukpe for partial storage 
during shut-in over shorter periods. More tanks 
are planned. Additional plans to scope FEED/DED 
of a new export line in the coming year 2021.

Mitigation 
Deployment of an HSSE Management System in 
line with best practices. Monitoring and reporting 
of HSSE performance scorecards at management 
and Board levels. Our HSSE systems and process 
are subjected to independent review and 
identified improvement initiatives are deployed. 
Continual focus on HSSE training and initiatives 
on incidence prevention. Emergency Response 
plan set for any eventuality and comprehensive 
Incident Review panels to identify and channel 
lessons learnt to improvement activities. Focus 
on the delivery on projects earmarked to reduce 
and or eliminate gas flaring as spelt out under the 
Company’s ‘gas flares out roadmap’.

KPI/Performance metric
 • Net working interest production 
 • Operating costs per boe

KPI/Performance metric
 • Net working interest production
 • Days downtime
 • EBIT

KPI/Performance metric
 • HSSE scorecards
 • LTIF
 • TRIR

Strategic pillars 
  1 2 3

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  2 3

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  2 3 5

Assessment 
High

Trend 

(e.g. Covid-19) 

Description 

Risk of an index case manifesting in Seplat offices 

Exploration and appraisal activities carry 

or field locations. This leads to an unsuccessful 

significant levels of subsurface risk. Sustained E&A 

initial control of an index case (probably resulting  

drilling failure will impact the Company's ability to 

in communal spread of the disease in the Seplat 

organically replace reserves and production.

Description 

Appointment of the COVIMOG (monitoring and 

response team) to assess the dynamics of the 

Strict compliance with reservoir management 

guidelines. Building internal capacity with skilled 

virus and report to leadership weekly. Install hand 

sub-surface expertise. Drill a minimum of two 

washing and sanitiser dispensers across all 

exploration wells, as well as continuous M&A  

business locations. Avoid large crowd and physical 

work to secure available opportunities at the 

meetings of more than 50 people. Avoid external 

right price.

Mitigation 

community as a result of late detection of secondary 

contact cases which may have had close contacts 

with index case or close contacts from other 

external primary sources). Risk also covers supply 

chain disruptions emanating from the pandemic i.e. 

the extent to which the disease will have an impact 

on all key projects of the Company (including ANOH) 

as designed in the work programme (impacting the 

supply chain and major contractors scheduled to 

deliver in a few months).

Mitigation 

meetings; encourage online meetings. Encourage 

staffs and other tenants on the building on 

washing of hands and use of sanitiser. Suspend all 

non critical travel plans and in the event of critical 

travels, put in place mandatory self quarantine 

and testing. Put in place mandatory PCR testing 

for all field operations. LT alignment on business 

scenarios to gain stability post-epidemic. Have a 

Business Continuity Plan in place to curb 

post-economic recovery challenges. Run an 

operations impact assessment and trigger 

identification of quick remediation strategies/wins 

across the business. Manage press/publicity and 

communication to avoid mis-communication/

wrong press. Declare work from home with 

effective IT support.

KPI/Performance metric

 • HSSE scorecards

 • LTIF

 • TRIR

Strategic pillars 

1 2 3

4

Assessment 

High

Trend 

KPI/Performance metric

 • Reserve replacement 

Strategic pillars 

1 2 3

5

Assessment 

Very high

Trend 

Steady. We continue to refine our project 
management approach for improved speed of 
delivery and efficiency, conclude the integration 
of the newly acquired Eland Assets into our 
business, consolidate performance across board, 
maximise production, maintain a strong balance 
sheet, and strategically position the Company for 
future growth.

30

Steady. Remarkably improved uptime of Forcados 
export system. However, risk trend is Steady, even 
though there is no near term line of sight for an 
alternative evacuation line, in the sudden event of 
prolonged outage of the TFP. Alternative line (AEP) is 
now scheduled for Q2 2021 delivery.

Steady. Though the risk is inherent, we will 
continue to deploy our HSSE risk management in 
line with best practices and with strong emphasis 
on prevention.

Rising. Trend is rising given the second wave of 

Steady. High grading our exploration portfolio 

the pandemic with its attendant contagious 

spread and the notable cases recorded. The 

through a thorough prospect screening exercise. 

In the near term, plan is to commence exploration 

Company will sustain the deployment of our HSE 

drilling campaign in the West.

risk management in line with best practices and 

with strong emphasis on reducing the impact of 

this unprecedented pandemic.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The implementation of our strategy can be hindered 
by various risks and uncertainties. The risks that the 
Board considers most significant are described here.

Strategic pillars

1

2

3

4

5

Increase our resources

Increase production and improve its profitability

Grow our gas business to serve Nigeria

Pursue profitable new opportunities

Behave responsibly, and share our success

 See page 16

Field operations and  

project deliverability

Third-party infrastructure downtime

HSSE risks

Infectious diseases outbreak in Seplat  
(e.g. Covid-19) 

Sustaining E&A programme 

Description 

Description 

Description 

Failure to manage operational activities in line  

An over-reliance on third-party operated 

Oil and gas activities carry significant levels of HSSE 

with planned expectations can lead to production 

transportation infrastructure can expose the 

misses, project delays and cost overruns, high 

Company to an extended period of production  

production costs and earlier than expected field 

being shut in.

decommissioning. Risk also expanded to cover the 

emerging OPEC quota restriction risk on production, 

resulting in production shut-ins.

risks if not properly managed. As activity levels 

continue to increase there is a strong focus on 

preventing major environmental (including the 

emerging climate change – GHG emissions risk), 

health or safety incidents.

Mitigation 

Mitigation 

Mitigation 

Focus on risk management at planning phase  

Work is ongoing to secure a second export line  

Deployment of an HSSE Management System in 

and mitigation plans activated. Compulsory 

‘peer-to-peer’ review for high-value projects  

and better project management techniques. 

Protracted land acquisition, preparation and  

to complement the Trans Forcados Pipeline. 

Continue to explore export via barging as a 

back-up option in extreme cases. Have two 

line with best practices. Monitoring and reporting 

of HSSE performance scorecards at management 

and Board levels. Our HSSE systems and process 

contingency tanks in Amukpe for partial storage 

are subjected to independent review and 

rig startup have been contributory factors which 

during shut-in over shorter periods. More tanks 

identified improvement initiatives are deployed. 

have received focused attention and significant 

are planned. Additional plans to scope FEED/DED 

Continual focus on HSSE training and initiatives 

process improvements and improved 

of a new export line in the coming year 2021.

communications with JV partner and approving 

regulators to mitigate delays. Use of smart/

intelligent wells to improve recovery and 

improved rig performance monitoring and 

reporting to manage NPTs.

on incidence prevention. Emergency Response 

plan set for any eventuality and comprehensive 

Incident Review panels to identify and channel 

lessons learnt to improvement activities. Focus 

on the delivery on projects earmarked to reduce 

and or eliminate gas flaring as spelt out under the 

Company’s ‘gas flares out roadmap’.

KPI/Performance metric

 • Net working interest production 

 • Operating costs per boe

KPI/Performance metric

 • Net working interest production

KPI/Performance metric

 • HSSE scorecards

Strategic pillars 

  1 2 3

Assessment 

Very high

Trend 

 • Days downtime

 • EBIT

Strategic pillars 

  2 3

Assessment 

Very high

Trend 

 • LTIF

 • TRIR

Strategic pillars 

  2 3 5

Assessment 

High

Trend 

Description 
Risk of an index case manifesting in Seplat offices 
or field locations. This leads to an unsuccessful 
initial control of an index case (probably resulting  
in communal spread of the disease in the Seplat 
community as a result of late detection of secondary 
contact cases which may have had close contacts 
with index case or close contacts from other 
external primary sources). Risk also covers supply 
chain disruptions emanating from the pandemic i.e. 
the extent to which the disease will have an impact 
on all key projects of the Company (including ANOH) 
as designed in the work programme (impacting the 
supply chain and major contractors scheduled to 
deliver in a few months).

Mitigation 
Appointment of the COVIMOG (monitoring and 
response team) to assess the dynamics of the 
virus and report to leadership weekly. Install hand 
washing and sanitiser dispensers across all 
business locations. Avoid large crowd and physical 
meetings of more than 50 people. Avoid external 
meetings; encourage online meetings. Encourage 
staffs and other tenants on the building on 
washing of hands and use of sanitiser. Suspend all 
non critical travel plans and in the event of critical 
travels, put in place mandatory self quarantine 
and testing. Put in place mandatory PCR testing 
for all field operations. LT alignment on business 
scenarios to gain stability post-epidemic. Have a 
Business Continuity Plan in place to curb 
post-economic recovery challenges. Run an 
operations impact assessment and trigger 
identification of quick remediation strategies/wins 
across the business. Manage press/publicity and 
communication to avoid mis-communication/
wrong press. Declare work from home with 
effective IT support.

KPI/Performance metric
 • HSSE scorecards
 • LTIF
 • TRIR

Strategic pillars 
1 2 3
4

Assessment 
High

Trend 

Description 
Exploration and appraisal activities carry 
significant levels of subsurface risk. Sustained E&A 
drilling failure will impact the Company's ability to 
organically replace reserves and production.

Mitigation 
Strict compliance with reservoir management 
guidelines. Building internal capacity with skilled 
sub-surface expertise. Drill a minimum of two 
exploration wells, as well as continuous M&A  
work to secure available opportunities at the 
right price.

KPI/Performance metric
 • Reserve replacement 

Strategic pillars 
1 2 3
5

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

Steady. We continue to refine our project 

Steady. Remarkably improved uptime of Forcados 

Steady. Though the risk is inherent, we will 

management approach for improved speed of 

export system. However, risk trend is Steady, even 

continue to deploy our HSSE risk management in 

delivery and efficiency, conclude the integration 

though there is no near term line of sight for an 

line with best practices and with strong emphasis 

of the newly acquired Eland Assets into our 

alternative evacuation line, in the sudden event of 

on prevention.

business, consolidate performance across board, 

prolonged outage of the TFP. Alternative line (AEP) is 

maximise production, maintain a strong balance 

now scheduled for Q2 2021 delivery.

sheet, and strategically position the Company for 

future growth.

Rising. Trend is rising given the second wave of 
the pandemic with its attendant contagious 
spread and the notable cases recorded. The 
Company will sustain the deployment of our HSE 
risk management in line with best practices and 
with strong emphasis on reducing the impact of 
this unprecedented pandemic.

Steady. High grading our exploration portfolio 
through a thorough prospect screening exercise. 
In the near term, plan is to commence exploration 
drilling campaign in the West.

31

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal risks and uncertainties  | continued

External risks

Niger Delta stability 
and security

Stakeholder management relationships

Geopolitical risk

Description 
The Company operates in a region where security 
incidents such as kidnappings, vandalism and 
criminal attacks on O&G installations can occur.

Description 
Failure to manage stakeholders can result in 
business disruptions and interference. The 
Company prioritises the effective management  
of relationships with all stakeholders including 
host communities, JV partners, government, 
regulatory bodies and shareholders.

Description 
Nigeria has at times in its history faced political 
uncertainties and threats such as terrorism 
aimed at de-stabilising and undermining the 
orderly and effective rule of central government.

Mitigation 
Continuous security monitoring and intelligence 
work. Quick mechanism for security advisory to 
staff and movement restriction for high alert 
situations. Active participation in the industry 
pressure groups to find lasting solution.

Mitigation 
Successful operation of the GMOU agreement  
with host communities, periodic engagement  
and feedback forums. Tailored CSR programmes, 
capacity building and infrastructure developments 
with the host communities. Sustain local content 
development with priority to community 
contractors. Organisational focus and clear 
strategy to deliver shareholder value pursued  
by the Board and management. Corporate 
governance, transparency and proactiveness  
in dealings with regulators and JV partners.

Mitigation 
Scenarios and response options plan set. Crisis 
management team in place for high alert political 
periods. Continue to partner/network with 
security stakeholders and share intelligence 
regarding security. Business continuity plans 
actioned in light of current geo-political situation.

KPI/Performance metric
 • LTIR
 • TRIR
 • Security incidents
 • Operating cash flow

Strategic pillars 
  2 5

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

KPI/Performance metric
 • Net working interest production
 • LTIR 
 • TRIR
 • Host community incidences

KPI/Performance metric
 • Be a highly responsible corporate citizen
 • Maximise production and cash flows from 

existing assets

 • Commercialise and produce gas reserves

Strategic pillars 
  2 3 5

Assessment 
High

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  1 2 5

Assessment 
High

Trend 

Steady.

Steady. Efforts by the Government and industry 
pressure groups, aimed at enhancing security in the 
region seems to be paying off as there was a 
significant drop in targeted oil and gas facilities 
attacks in the region in year 2020. We will continue 
our monitoring and vigilance.

Steady. We continue to enjoy good working 
relations with our stakeholders.

32

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic pillars

1

2

3

4

5

Increase our resources

Increase production and improve its profitability

Grow our gas business to serve Nigeria

Pursue profitable new opportunities

Behave responsibly, and share our success

 See page 16

Financial risks

Oil price volatility

Changes to tax status and legislation

Availability of capital

Description 
Oil prices have exhibited a history of volatility and 
can fluctuate sharply in line with external factors.

Description 
If the tax regime/legislation under which the 
Company operates its assets were to change, 
profitability may be impacted.

Description 
The oil and gas industry is highly capital intensive. 
Significant amounts of capital are required to 
continue development activities and fund M&A. 
Non funding of cashcalls by JV partners impacts 
activities and liquidity.

Mitigation 
Hedging continues to be our price risk 
management tool. Price sensitisation on project 
economics and cost discipline for capital projects 
sanctioning. Aggressive focus on cost reduction.

Mitigation 
Perform evaluation of business plan and 
performance metrics exclusive of tax benefits. 
Project economics were determined on maximum 
tax basis to mitigate the impact of the now expired 
pioneer tax status. Impact assessment of potential 
tax legislature monitored at the Board level.

Mitigation 
Emphasis on compliance with requirements of 
the JV operating agreement for effective/strict  
JV partner concurrence. Board review and 
approval of financial strategy and debt portfolio 
management with strong banking relationships. 

KPI/Performance metric
 • Realised oil price
 • Operating cash flow

KPI/Performance metric
 • Effective tax rate
 • Tax status

Strategic pillars 
  2

Assessment 
High

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  2 3

Assessment 
High

Trend 

KPI/Performance metric
•  JV receivables
•  Capex
•  New M&A activities

Strategic pillars 
2 3

5

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

Decreasing. In the year 2020, we kept focus of  
our price risk management policy to protect the 
Company’s cash flow stream from downside 
scenarios. We will also continue to take hedge 
positions and apply cost reduction strategies.

Steady. PIB is going through legislative process. 
Versions in circulation currently being reviewed  
to assess the impact on Seplat valuation.

Decreasing. JV partners continues to remain 
current in paying cash calls. 

33

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal risks and uncertainties  | continued

Financial risks continued

Cost control risk

Liquidity

Foreign exchange risk

Description 
Cost reduction remains central to the Company's 
current operating strategy. High operating cost 
and ineffective capital cost control negatively 
impacts operating cash flows and profitability.

Description 
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not 
be able to meet its financial obligations as they 
fall due.

Description 
The Company is exposed to exchange rate risk  
to the extent that balances and transactions  
are denominated in a currency other than the 
US Dollar.

Mitigation 
Comprehensive budgeting process approved by 
the joint venture partner and the Board. Clear 
cost management targets. Grading of portfolio 
opportunities and project ranking for capital 
allocation. Focus on reducing drilling costs at  
well design phase. Cost monitoring and periodic 
reporting. Focus on effective contracting 
strategies for cost reduction.

Mitigation 
Manage liquidity risk by ensuring that sufficient 
funds are available to meet commitments as they 
fall due. Uses both long-term and short-term 
cash flow projections to monitor funding 
requirements for activities and to ensure there 
are sufficient cash resources to meet operational 
needs. Cash flow projections take into 
consideration the Company’s debts and covenant 
compliance. Surplus cash held is transferred  
to the treasury department which invests in 
interest-bearing current accounts, time  
deposits and money market deposits.

Mitigation 
The Company has options to manage its foreign 
exchange exposure including financial hedge 
instruments such as forward exchange contracts.

KPI/Performance metric
 • Operating cost per boe
 • EBIT
 • Capex
 • Well costs

Strategic pillars 
2 3

5

Assessment 
High

Trend 

KPI/Performance metric
 • Operating cash flow
 • Capex

KPI/Performance metric
 • Operating cash flow
 • Capex

Strategic pillars 
  2

Assessment 
Medium

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  2 3

Assessment 
High

Trend 

Steady. Cost discipline remains key focus of 
the business.

Steady. Improved uptime of TFP; improved JV cash 
call payment; oil price rally; and strategic debt 
refinancing all have greatly improved liquidity risk. 

Steady. Historically, the Company holds majority  
of its cash and cash equivalent in US Dollar. Gas 
contracts are indexed in US Dollar. 

34

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Strategic pillars

1

2

3

4

5

Increase our resources

Increase production and improve its profitability

Grow our gas business to serve Nigeria

Pursue profitable new opportunities

Behave responsibly, and share our success

 See page 16

Strategic risks

Portfolio concentration risk

Merger & Acquisition (M&A) risk

Bribery and corruption risk

Description 
High dependency on a concentrated portfolio of 
producing blocks and limited number of wells can 
leave the Company more susceptible to declining 
long-term growth and reserves depletion.

Description 
Growth through M&A activities is part of Seplat’s 
strategy to pursue a focused acquisition and 
farm-in. M&A deals and transactions come with 
significant risk including structural, commercial  
and integration risks. There is also the risk of non 
achievement of acquisition targets due to highly 
competitive landscape.

Description 
Bribery and corruption presents a risk throughout 
the global oil and gas industry and represents an 
ongoing risk to any oil and gas company.

Mitigation 
Focus on portfolio expansion strategy from  
the Board level to diversify current portfolio. 
Integrated long-term planning on crude oil  
and gas business. 

Mitigation 
New business development unit is always looking 
for the right opportunities for Seplat. Decision 
review board (DRB) process is in place to ensure 
deals are properly vetted and adequate due 
diligence done on new opportunities. The DRB 
ensures the commercial, structural, KYC and 
integration risks are fully considered and 
addressed with mitigation plan approved and in 
place prior to deal closing.

Mitigation 
Extensive training on anti-bribery and corruption. 
Embedding corporate governance principles with 
key focus on areas of the business which may  
be more susceptible to corruption such as the 
contracting and procurement process. Processes 
exist to guide dealings with public officials.

KPI/Performance metric
 • Successful execution of new acquisition and 

KPI/Performance metric
 • Successful execution of new acquisition and 

farm-in opportunities

farm-in opportunities

KPI/Performance metric
 • Whistleblowing reports
 • Number of disciplinary cases

Strategic pillars 
  2 3

Assessment 
High

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  1 3 5

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  5

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

Steady. The Company is in build/transform phase.

Steady. DRB process in place to vet opportunities 
and deals. Risk trend steady following ongoing 
integration of Eland Oil and Gas Plc, as well as 
ongoing strategy to acquire more strategic assets. 
M&A landscape remains competitive.

Decreasing. As geographical location continues to 
be susceptible to corruption, risk trend changed 
from steady to decreasing.

35

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal risks and uncertainties  | continued

Strategic pillars

1

2

3

4

5

Increase our resources

Increase production and improve its profitability

Grow our gas business to serve Nigeria

Pursue profitable new opportunities

Behave responsibly, and share our success

 See page 16

Strategic risks continued

Loss of key employees

Fraudulent activity risk

Information security risk

Description 
The oil and gas industry is very specialised in 
certain areas and there is competition within  
the industry to secure talent and highly-skilled 
and experienced personnel in core areas.

Description 
Fraudulent activity presents a risk throughout  
the global oil and gas industry and represents  
an ongoing risk to any oil and gas company.

Description 
Potential cyber attacks and information 
technology security breaches could result in  
loss or compromise of sensitive proprietary 
information, communication and IT business 
continuity disruption across operations.

Mitigation 
Annual benchmark reviews to ensure 
competitiveness in reward and recruitment. 
Succession planning in place as part of  
business continuity. Focus on training  
as a key differentiating factor in the  
operating environment.

Mitigation 
Extensive whistleblowing campaign. Continuous 
monitoring and improvement of the system of 
internal controls by all lines of defence with 
strong internal audit activity. Automation 
of processes where possible to reduce 
manual intervention.

Mitigation 
We monitor and regularly upgrade the Company’s 
information technology and security systems. 
The Company has a clearly defined employee  
user policy and control of access rights. Our 
information security framework and 
infrastructure have been externally reviewed in 
line with requirements of ISO 27001. IT business 
continuity plan is in place for quick deployment.

KPI/Performance metric
 • Staff turnover

KPI/Performance metric
 • Number of reported cases

KPI/Performance metric
 • Information security identification and 

containment reports

Strategic pillars 
  2 5

Assessment 
Medium

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  5

Assessment 
Very high

Trend 

Strategic pillars 
  2 5

Assessment 
High

Trend 

Steady. Risk trend changed to steady this period.

Steady. Risk is kept at very high and the Company 
continues to maintain a zero tolerance policy.

Rising. While cyber security continues to hold 
international attention, there has not been material 
IT breach on our operations. However, the triggering 
of the work from home policy has resulted in a rising 
trend of the risk, given the greater number of 
employees working externally.

36

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
OPERATIONAL 
REVIEW

37

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Operational Review  | continued

OUR ASSETS

Seplat’s portfolio comprises 
direct interests in seven oil 
and gas blocks and a revenue 
interest in one further block, 
all of which are located in the 
onshore land and swamp areas 
of the prolific Niger Delta, close 
to essential infrastructure. 

This portfolio provides the Company with 
a robust platform of oil and natural gas 
reserves and production capacity, together 
with significant opportunities for future 
development projects, 2C to 2P conversion 
and exploration and appraisal drilling. We 
also continue to view the shallow and 
deep-water offshore assets of the Niger 
Delta as potentially appealing opportunities 
for future expansion.

Polobo

OML 40

Sibiri
Opuama

Abiala

Gbetiokun

Onitsha

OML 4

Oben

Okwefe

Mosogar

Okporhuru

OML 41

Sapele

Ubaleme

Amukpe

Ovhor

Okoporo

Orogho

OML 38

 Escravos

Warri

 Forcados

Oil producing assets

OML 40

Share 
Partner 

45%
NPDC Starcrest

W.I. 2P reserves  
(MMboe)
Oil   

27

W.I. production 2020  
(boepd)
Oil   

7,884 

OML 55

Share 
Partner 

Revenue interest
Belema Oil

W.I. 2P reserves  
(MMboe)
Oil   

5

W.I. production 2020  
(boepd)
Oil   

–

Ubima

Share 
Partner 

88%
All Grace Energy

W.I. 2P reserves  
(MMboe)
Oil   

4

W.I. production 2020  
(boepd)
Oil   

971

38

Umuseti (Pillar)

Jisike

OPL 283

Igbuku (Pillar)

OML 53

Ohaji  

South

Owerri

Iheoma

Emeabiam

Odinma

Alaoma

Omerelu

Owu

Ubima

Port Harcourt

Krakama

OML 55

Soku

Nembe

Dama

Robert Kiri

Ke

Belema

 Brass

Akaso

Bonny

Inda

 Bonny

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 Escravos

Warri

 Forcados

OML 40

Abiala

Polobo

Sibiri

Opuama

OML 41

Sapele

Okwefe

Gbetiokun

Mosogar

Okporhuru

OML 4

Oben

Ubaleme

Amukpe

Ovhor

Okoporo

Orogho

OML 38

Onitsha

Umuseti (Pillar)

Jisike

OPL 283

Igbuku (Pillar)

OML 53

Ohaji  
South

Owerri

Iheoma

Odinma

Emeabiam

Alaoma

Omerelu

Owu

Ubima

Port Harcourt

Krakama

OML 55

Soku

Nembe

Dama

Robert Kiri

Ke

Belema

 Brass

Akaso

Bonny

Inda

 Bonny

Oil & gas  
producing assets

Our major assets at OML 4/38/41 and OML 53 have 
substantial reserves of both oil and gas and are 
ideally located to supply oil for export or local 
refining, or for the supply of gas to nearby power 
stations. Gas processing takes place at Oben and 
Sapele and the new ANOH Gas Processing Plant 
will be commissioned in 2022 at OML 53. 

OML 4/38/41

Share 
Partner 

45%
NPDC

W.I. 2P reserves  
(MMboe)
Oil   
Gas 
Total 

156
119
275

W.I. production 2020  
(boepd)
Oil 
Gas 
Total 

21,249
17,469
38,718

OML 53 

 (not yet producing gas)

Share 
Partner 

40%
NAPIMS

W.I. 2P reserves  
(MMboe)
Oil   
Gas 
Total 

44
128
172

W.I. production 2020  
(boepd)
Oil 
Gas 
Total 

2,639
–
2,639

OPL 283 (not yet producing gas)

Share 
Partner 

40%
Pillar Oil

W.I. 2P reserves  
(MMboe)
Oil   
Gas 
Total 

W.I. production 2020  
(boepd)
Oil 
Gas 
Total 

970
–
970

5
12
17

39

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020CONTINUING 
FOCUS ON 
IMPROVING 
OUR EFFICIENCY

Reserves
Seplat’s portfolio comprises direct interests 
in seven oil and gas blocks and a revenue 
interest in one other block. This portfolio 
provides the Company with a robust platform 
of oil and gas reserves and production 
capacity, together with material upside 
opportunities through future development. 

Total working-interest 2P reserves, as 
assessed independently by Ryder Scott 
Company, L.P., at 1 January 2021, stood at 
499.4 MMboe, comprising 240.5 MMbbls  
of oil and condensate and 1,501.3 Bscf of 
natural gas. The change represents an 
organic decrease in overall 2P reserves  
of 1.9% year-on-year, due to production  
of 12.3 MMbbls but mitigated by revisions  
of previous estimates. Working-interest 2C 
resources stood at 94.8 MMboe, comprising 
59.7 MMbbls of oil and condensate and 
203.3 Bscf of natural gas.

Consequently, the Group’s working-interest 
2P reserves and 2C resources stood at 
594.1 MMboe at 1 January 2021, comprising 
300.2 MMbbls oil and condensate and 
1,704.7 Bscf of natural gas.

Production
Our oil and gas assets are located in the 
onshore land and swamp areas of the  
prolific Niger Delta in Nigeria. Principal  
areas of production are Edo, Delta, Imo  
and Rivers States. 

Full-year total working-interest production 
for 2020 was within guidance and averaged 
51,183 boepd. Within this, liquids production 
was up 40.9% year-on-year, reflecting the 
first-time contribution of the acquired  
Eland assets whilst gas production was 
down 22.9% year-on-year, because of Q1 
maintenance and the impact of the Covid-19 
pandemic on the economy. Production 
decline rates are at levels typical of the 
region at 10-15% per annum. 

This represents an overall production 
increase of 10.1% compared with 2019 
despite constrained production levels in 
Nigeria following cuts in OPEC+ production 
quotas and tank-top issues experienced at 
the terminal arising from the pandemic and 
the general impact of Covid-19 on operations. 

There was 83% uptime for the Trans 
Forcados Pipeline during the period and  
the produced liquid volumes from OMLs 4, 
38 and 41 were subject to 9.4% 
reconciliation losses.

Operational Review  | continued

Effiong Okon 
Operations Director

Seplat delivered 
production within 
guidance despite 
challenging operating 
conditions and the 
collapse of demand 
caused by the  
Covid-19 pandemic.

51,183 boepd

Volume within guidance

$8.90/boe

Cost of production 

$150m

Capital investment 

40

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20202020 performance highlights

Seplat turned in a robust performance 
despite the most challenging year in 
its history, during much of which the 
Company was kept running by staff 
working from home.

Successful drilling 
programme

 – Six oil wells 
 – Three gas wells 
 – Focus drilling on gas  
and high-return oil

Production within 
guidance

 – 51,183boepd total
 – 33,714bopd liquids
 – 101MMscfd gas (17,469 boepd)

Development of Eland 

Focus on cost  
and efficiency

Update on  
key projects

Safety initiatives

 – Integration of assets, staff  

and infrastructure

 – Contributed 26.3% of Group liquids
 – Aberdeen office becomes Seplat’s 

Centre of Excellence

 – US$8.90/boe opex
 – Reduced OML40 barging costs from 

$14/bbl to $5/bbl

 – Other cost-saving initiatives driven 

throughout operations 

 – ANOH project expected to produce 

first gas in H1 2022 after Covid-related 
delays

 – New Sapele Gas Plant expected 

operational H2 2022

 – Amukpe-Escravos Pipeline (third-

party) expected operational H2 2021

 – Implemented recommendations of 

independent BRVS safety investigations

 – Seplat operations achieve zero LTI 
 – Leadership reinforcing safety culture 

across organisation

W.I. 2P reserves by block (MMboe) 

W.I. 2P reserves by type (MMboe) 

5

4

252
27

509
MMboe

172

17

240.5

258.9

275

2020 working interest production (boepd)

51,183

17,469

33,714

60,000

50,000

40,000

49,867

24,198

46,498

22,563

36,924

19,070

30,000

25,877

15,786

25,669

23,935

20,000

17,853

10,000

10,091

0

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Oil

Gas

ESG developments 
In our continuing drive to improve our 
environmental performance and prepare  
for both the opportunities and challenges 
posed by climate change, we are working 
with external consultants Environment 
Resource Management and Critical 
Resource to conduct scenario analysis of  
our assets under the IEA’s Stated Policies 
Scenario (STEPS) and its Sustainable 
Development Scenario to simulate a 
well-below 2°C outcome against which  
we can test the resilience of our portfolio. 

In addition, we are developing a carbon 
footprint calculator so that we can more 
accurately measure our emissions. We will 
publish the results of these initiatives in  
due course and use the insights they  
deliver to drive our corporate strategy and 
sustainability initiatives going forward. 

257
OML 4,38,41
257
OML 53
257
OML 40

OPL 283
OML 55
Ubima

Oil

Gas

  Read more:  
Corporate social responsibility 
Page 59 

41

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Operational Review  | continued

SEPLAT OIL  
VALUE 
CREATION 
STRATEGY

Increase  
reserves

Increase 
production

Seplat pursues a four-
pronged approach to  
value creation for its  
oil assets. 

42

Diversify export 
routes

Acquire  
assets

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020W.I. 2P reserves (MMbbl)

156

OML 4,38,41

Liquids production

44

OML 53

27

OML 40

5

5

OPL
283

OML
55

4
Ubima

OMLs 4, 38 & 41  21,249

OML 40 

OML 53 

OPL 283 

Ubima 

7,884

2,639

970

971

Future prospects
 – Unlock existing 2C resources of 59.7MMbbl  

oil and condensate

 – Explore, appraise and develop OML 40’s Sibiri field 
(formerly called Amobe) for potential 78MMbbl at 
relatively low risk 

 – Acquire new blocks in future government  
licensing rounds, but at appropriate value

 – Acquire established operating assets from  
exiting/divesting IOCs or local operators

 – Acquire distressed operators and improve  

exploration and efficiency

 – Average W.I. production was 33,714bopd in 2020 

 – Includes maiden contribution from Eland assets  

of 7,884bopd from OML 40 and 97bopd from Ubima; 
combined contribution was 26.3% of  
Group liquids volume

 – 83% uptime on Trans Forcados export route,  

9.4% reconciliation losses

 – Six oil wells drilled or completed 

 – Sapele 35
 – Ovhor 6ST, Ovhor 20
 – Ohaji South 5, Ohaji South 6
 – Gbetiokun 5 

 – Focus on increasing efficiency at wellheads

 – Deploy innovative drilling and production 
technologies to increase productivity 

Polobo

OML 40

Sibiri
Opuama

Abiala

Gbetiokun

OML 41

Sapele

Okwefe

Mosogar

Ubaleme

Amukpe

Ovhor

Okoporo

 Escravos

Warri

OML 4

Amukpe-Escravos
 – Third-party project  
not managed by  
Seplat

Oben

 – Delayed with likely 
commissioning in  
H2 2021

Orogho

 – New underground  

Onitsha

OML40
 –  Currently evacuated 

through Trans Escravos 
Pipeline, with lower 
reconciliation and 
downtime losses than TFP 

 – Option to connect AEP  

OML 38

pipe will significantly 
reduce losses from 
poor maintenance, 
vandalism, other 
damage etc 

 – Seplat can inject up to 
40,000bopd capacity 

OPL 283

and TEP via 8km spur line, 
thereby creating additional 
route for OML 4, 38, 41 
liquids 

Umuseti (Pillar)

 – Potential to use offshore 
Floating Storage and 
Offloading (FSO) facility 
and use it as a crude oil 
Igbuku (Pillar)
export terminal, reducing 
costs of using third-party 
infrastructure

Increases Reserves
 – Eland added 31MMbbl 

W.I. 2P reserves 

 – High-quality Sibiri 

prospect has potential 
to add 78MMbbl at  
low risk 

 Forcados

Increases Production
 – OML 40 added 

7,884bopd in 2020 with 
potential to increase  
in 2021

 – Ubima added 971bopd

 – New Gbetiokun wells 
expected to increase 
output 

Add Export Routes
 –  OML 40 added 

Enhances Expertise
 – Eland brings significant 

substantial production 
resource not 
dependent on Trans 
Forcados Pipeline

 – Potential for new 
export routes as 
detailed above

sub-surface, 
exploration, and 
technical expertise

 – Eland’s HQ now Seplat’s 
Centre of Excellence in 
Scotland’s energy hub, 
close to industry and 
academic expertise 

Jisike

OML 53

Ohaji  
South

Owerri

Iheoma

Emeabiam

Odinma

Alaoma

Omerelu

Owu

Ubima

Port Harcourt

Krakama

OML 55

Soku

Nembe

43

Dama

Robert Kiri

Ke

Belema

 Brass

Akaso

Bonny

Inda

 Bonny

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Operational Review – Oil assets

SEPLAT’S OIL 
PRODUCING 
ASSETS 
2020  
IN REVIEW

Oil business performance
The Group’s oil operations continued despite the Covid-19 crisis and 
produced an average 33,714bopd on a working-interest basis during 
2020, up 40.9% on 2019. 

This increase reflects a maiden contribution of 8,855bopd (26.3% of 
Group liquid volumes) from the OML 40 and Ubima assets, as well as 
higher production from OML 53 compared to 2019. Exports from the 
Group’s operations were constrained by approximately 410,000 bbls  
on a gross basis as a result of the OPEC+ production cuts implemented 
in the third quarter of 2020. Production output increased as a result  
of wells drilled earlier in the year, which has necessitated discussions 
with the DPR and NNPC for increased quotas to reflect this uptick.

During the period, six oil wells were drilled/completed (Sapele-35, 
Ovhor-6ST, Ovhor-20, Ohaji South-5, Ohaji South-6 and Gbetiokun-5), 
while the Extended Well Test for Ubima continued with production  
up to 1,200bopd. The wells flowed at a combined initial rate of 
approximately 18,700bopd. Production improvement through Well, 
Reservoir and Facilities Management (WRFM) interventions included 
rigless restoration and optimisation activities that resulted in 
optimised well head production and LTF performance.

The average price realised per barrel in 2020 was $39.95  
(2019: $64.40).

OMLs 4/38/41

Operator: 
Seplat
Working interest: 
45.0%
Partner: 
NPDC
Main fields: 
Oben, Amukpe, Okporhuru, Ovhor, 
Orogho, Sapele
Acreage: 
267km2,094km2/291km2
Available export route: 
Forcados, Warri Refinery, Escravos 
Concession expiry date: 
October 2038
2020 working interest  
liquids production: 
21,249bopd
2020 working interest  
gas production: 
101MMscfd
Remaining working interest  
2P oil reserves: 
156MMbbls
Remaining working interest  
2P gas reserves: 
693Bscf
2021 activities: 
Production and development

Seplat holds a 45% working 
interest in OMLs 4, 38 and 41, 
with the Nigerian Petroleum 
Development Company (NPDC) 
holding the remaining 55% 
interest. 

In OML 4, the partners drilled 
two new gas production wells  
in the second half of the year. 
Oben-49 was completed in  
the period with an initial gross 
production rate of 35MMscfd of 
gas and 600bopd of condensate. 
Oben-50 came onstream in the 
first quarter of 2021.

In OML 38, further to the earlier 
commissioning of the liquid 
treatment facility (LTF) at 
Amukpe, we undertook a crude 
quality upgrade project aimed  
at achieving an export-grade 
specification of 0.5% BS&W. By 
doing this, we have eliminated 
the cost component of crude 
handling charges that have 
historically been incurred for 
evacuating wet crude to the 
Forcados terminal and freed  
up additional ullage on the 
export pipeline for dry crude. 

The upgrade ensures the  
ability to produce more than 
40,000bopd of dry crude. 
Further optimisation of the LTF, 
with additional automation to 
achieve less than 0.5% dry crude 
and 60,000bopd dry crude, is 
expected to be completed in the 
first half of 2021.

The two wells completed in the 
period, Ovhor-6ST and Ovhor-20, 
came onstream at a combined 
average gross rate of 5,200bopd. 
In a bid to realise the full 
potential of the wells in  
this area, additional bulk lines 
were laid and we expect will be 
commissioned in first quarter  
of 2021.

In OML 41, the ongoing focus  
was on full development of 
Sapele Shallow, which overlies 
the productive reservoirs in  
the main Sapele field and is 
estimated to hold a significant 
accumulation of oil (around 
500 MMbbls STOIIP). In 2020, one 
well, Sapele-35, was completed 
with a potential initial gross rate 
of approximately 1,000bopd. 

Working interest liquids 
production 2020 (Bopd)

OPL 283

Ubima

OML 53

970

971

2,639

OML 40

7,884

OMLs 4/38/41

21,249

44

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Polobo

OML 40

Sibiri
Opuama

Abiala

Gbetiokun

Onitsha

OML 4

Oben

Okwefe

Mosogar

Okporhuru

OML 41

Sapele

Ubaleme

Amukpe

Ovhor

Okoporo

Orogho

OML 38

 Escravos

Warri

 Forcados

Umuseti (Pillar)

Jisike

OPL 283

Igbuku (Pillar)

OML 53

Ohaji  
South

Owerri

Heoma

Odinma

Emeabiam

Alaoma

Omerelu

Owu

Ubima

Port Harcourt

Krakama

OML 55

Soku

Nembe

Dama

Robert Kiri

Ke

Belema

 Brass

Akaso

Bonny

Inda

 Bonny

OML 53

Operator: 
Seplat
Working interest: 
40.0%
Partner: 
NNPC
Main fields: 
Jisike (producing) and Ohaji South 
(producing) and Owu (discovery)

Acreage: 
1,585km2
Available export route: 
Bonny, Brass
Concession expiry date: 
June 2027
2020 working interest  
liquids production: 
2639bopd
2020 working interest  
gas production: 
n/a
Remaining working interest  
2P oil reserves: 
44MMbbls
Remaining working interest  
2P gas reserves: 
742Bscf
2021 activities: 
Production, development and 
field appraisal

OPL 283

Operator: 
Pillar Oil/OPGC
Working interest: 
40.0%
Partner: 
Pillar Oil
Main fields: 
Umuseti and Igbuku
Acreage: 
102.2km2
Available export route: 
Forcados, Escravos 
Concession expiry date: 
October 2028
2020 working interest  
liquids production: 
970bopd
2020 working interest 
gas production: 
n/a
Remaining working interest  
2P oil reserves: 
5MMbbls
Remaining working interest  
2P gas reserves: 
66Bscf
2021 activities: 
Production and development

Seplat holds a 40% working 
interest in OPL 283, alongside 
partner Pillar Oil.

Following the conclusion of  
the Anagba-1 appraisal well, 
Pillar-Newton JV and other 
Partners have executed the 
Pre-Unitisation Agreement, 
Crude Handling Agreement  
and Facility Services Agreement  
for the Ashaka/Anagba fields. 
Production allocation to Newton 
commenced in September. 

The Igbuku 3D seismic data 
acquired by Pillar-Newton JV 
was interpreted and formed  
the basis for the Integrated 
Petroleum Engineering Studies, 
which along with the Field 
Development Plan will underpin 
the Igbuku gas development. 
The planned Igbuku re-entry 
was temporarily put on hold due 
to cuts in capital expenditure, 
given the challenging year. 
However, the team ensured that 
the Interim Crude Supply and 
Associated Gas for power swap 
agreements were executed in 
the period. 

Seplat holds a 40% working 
interest in OML 53, with 
the National Petroleum 
Investment Management 
Services (NAPIMS) holding 
the remaining 60% interest.

Seplat completed two wells at 
the Ohaji South (OHS) oil field, 
OHS-5 and OHS-6. The two wells 
came onstream in the third 
quarter of 2020 at a combined 
average production rate of  
5,000bopd, thus ramping up 
production from the acreage 
from c.6,500bopd to achieve  
an exit rate of c.11,500bopd. 

Infrastructure projects 
completed during the year  
were focused on supporting 
production growth from Ohaji 
South field, which included the 
upgrade of existing 10,000bopd 
Early Production Facility (EPF)  
to 15,000bopd capacity, 
construction of 4”x10km 
flowlines, 8”x12km bulkline and 
capacity expansion of remote 
manifold at Ohaji South Field.

In December, Seplat signed  
a Crude Purchase Agreement 
(CPA) with Waltersmith 
Petroman Oil Limited. The CPA is 
for the supply of between 2,000 
and 4,000bopd from existing 
working-interest production 
from the Ohaji South Field within 
OML 53, for Waltersmith’s new 
5,000bopd modular refinery at 
Ibigwe Field, in Imo State.

Previously, Seplat’s share of 
Ohaji South crude was primarily 
evacuated to the export terminal 
via a third-party Crude Handling 
Agreement with Waltersmith. 
This new agreement benefits 
Seplat by selling its crude oil 
directly to Waltersmith for 
refining, thereby eliminating 
crude losses and downtime 
experienced along the 
evacuation and export route.  
The transaction will also boost 
the capacity of Waltersmith  
in providing its products 
particularly to the immediate 
region of our operations thereby 
supporting Seplat’s commitment 
to national energy security.

Apart from its oil, OML 53 has 
substantial gas reserves that 
can provide feedstock for the 
ANOH Gas Processing Plant that 
Seplat is building in partnership 
with the National Gas Company 
(NGC). A portion of dry gas 
production (70MMscfd) from  
the plant has been earmarked  
to meet the domestic supply 
obligations associated with  
the OML 53 reserves. 

At the upstream supplying 
ANOH, four wells are planned  
to be delivered by the upstream 
operator, Shell Petroleum 
Development Company (SPDC) 
in 2021. SPDC has commenced 
the drilling for the first set of two 
wells scheduled to be completed 
in Q2 2021, which will be 
followed by another set of two 
wells scheduled to be completed 
in Q4 2021. 

45

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Operational Review – Oil assets  | continued

OML 40 

Operator: 
NPDC
Working interest: 
45%
Partner: 
NPDC, Starcrest
Main fields: 
Opuama (producing), Gbetiokun, 
Amobe, Abiala
Available export route: 
Forcados, Barging
Concession expiry date: 
October 2038
2020 working interest  
liquids production: 
7,884bopd
2020 working interest  
gas production: 
n/a
Remaining working interest  
2P oil reserves: 
27MMbbls
Remaining working interest  
2P gas reserves: 
n/a
2021 activities: 
Production and development

Seplat completed the acquisition 
in the United Kingdom of the 
entire issued share capital of 
Eland in December 2019. Eland 
has a 45% interest in Elcrest, 
which in turn owns a 45% 
working interest in OML 40. 
Elcrest is a joint venture between 
Starcrest (55%) and Eland (45%). 
OML 40 is operated by the 
Nigerian Petroleum Development 
Company (NPDC) on behalf of the 
NPDC/Elcrest Joint Venture. 
Since inception, Eland has 
arranged the funding of Elcrest’s 
share in OML 40. The current 
aggregate loan balance owed by 
Elcrest at the end of 2020 was 
$520 million (including RBL) and 
until the $417 million shareholder 
loan is repaid, Seplat will 
continue to consolidate  
Elcrest into its results.

In 2020, Gbetiokun-5 was 
completed, with initial well 
production capacity of 
c.5,000bopd. While the possibility 
of a permanent export pipeline 
solution is being explored, 
evacuation of processed  
crude via shuttle tankers from 
Gbetiokun to the injection point 
on the main OML 40 export 
pipeline has been enhanced  
with the mooring facilities 
rehabilitation and crude injection 
system upgrade. This allowed the 
successful streamlining of the 
Gbetiokun barging operations 
with the use of a self-propelled, 
28 kbbl capacity vessel to 
evacuate liquids and has driven 
barging costs down from $14/bbl 
to $5/bbl. Facility projects 
progressed during the year 
included Gbetiokun-Adagbasa 
pipeline, Opuama flow station 
upgrade, BRVS and Gbetiokun 
EPF upgrades.

The Opuama focus was on 
deferment management, 
reservoir management ranging 
from incorporation of recently 
drilled well results into 
subsurface models, production 
monitoring, reduction of Mean 
Time-to-Repair, well optimisation 
and the identification of further 
opportunities to increase 
overall recovery.

Preparatory activities for  
drilling of the high-impact, 
near-field Sibiri (formerly 
Amobe) exploration prospect 
continued during the year with 
the evaluation of possible 
acceleration of first oil in the 
event of exploration success. 
Sibiri carries a risked best 
estimate gross prospective  
oil resource of 78 MMbbls. 

In accordance with the revised 
commercial arrangement that 
was agreed in July 2016, which 
provides for a discharge sum of 
$330 million to be paid to Seplat 
over a six-year period through 
allocation of crude oil volumes 
produced from OML 55, Seplat 
received payments amounting  
to $4.8 million in 2020. Total 
payments received from 
inception to the end of 2020 
stood at $124.8 million and the 
outstanding discharge sum to be 
paid to Seplat is $205.2 million. 
Recovery during the year was 
impacted by OPEC+ production 
cuts and low oil prices. 

In a bid to sustain production 
from this block, Seplat’s Asset 
Management Team has received 
the field data for technical 
evaluation to resolve production 
challenges that have delayed 
target recovery of the investment.

In 2021, Seplat will continue to 
monetise liftings towards full 
recovery of the $330 million 
discharge sum.

Seplat’s Eland subsidiary, 
through Wester Ord, owns a 40% 
working interest in the Ubima 
marginal field, with All Grace 
Energy Limited (AGEL) owning 
60%. Wester Ord is the Technical 
and Financial partner to AGEL in 
the Ubima development. 

The Extended Well Test for 
Ubima continued through  
the year with a production  
of c.1,200bopd. The Field 
Development Plan for  
Ubima has been finalised. 

OML 55

Operator: 
Asset Management Team
Working interest: 
Revenue interest
Partner: 
NNPC, Belemaoil
Main fields: 
Robertkiri, Idama and Inda 
(producing)
Acreage: 
840km2
Available export route: 
Brass, Bonny
Concession expiry date: 
June 2027
2020 working interest  
liquids production: 
n/a
2020 working interest  
gas production: 
n/a
Remaining working interest  
2P oil reserves: 
5MMbbls
Remaining working interest  
2P gas reserves: 
n/a
2021 activities: 
Recovery of discharge sum

Ubima

Technical partner: 
Wester Ord
Working interest: 
88%
Partner: 
All Grace Energy Ltd
Main fields: 
Ubima
Available export route: 
Trucking
Concession expiry date: 

2020 working interest  
liquids production: 
971bopd
2020 working interest 
gas production: 
n/a
Remaining working interest  
2P oil reserves: 
4MMbbls
Remaining working interest  
2P gas reserves: 
n/a
2021 activities: 
Production and development

46

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Following the tragic BRVS 
accident in July, operations at 
Gbetiokun were suspended for 
several weeks but exports were 
able to recommence at the end of 
August. The three investigation 
teams deployed identified failure 
of the Permit to Work system as 
the root cause of the incident and 
recommended improvement 
actions. Sixteen of the 
recommendations, including all 
high-urgency items, have been 
closed out and the final two 
items will be concluded shortly.

Operations were further 
impacted by the incident on the 
MT Harcourt, a 180,000 bbls 
storage vessel used at 
Gbetiokun that occurred in 
November. A JV led investigation 
team identified poor contractor 
practices as the root cause of 
the incident which led to a 
rupture of the vessel’s ballast 
tank hull. MT Harcourt is a 
self-contained vessel operated 
by Union Maritime leased under 
the Project Management Team 
arrangement between NPDC 
and Elcrest for the development 
of OML 40 Gbetiokun field.  
Three of the six actions 
recommended have been  
closed out, including a marine 
audit of all OML 40 vessels and 
spill clean-up completed.

Elcrest’s management has 
prioritised building a robust  
HSE culture across the 
organisation and aims to finalise 
implementation of the enhanced 
standards across its locations.

 Maintenance and 
safety are a constant 
focus for Seplat’s 
operational employees.

Development of Eland 
The acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Eland Oil 
& Gas PLC completed in the United Kingdom at the end of 2019 
and was Seplat’s first corporate acquisition. Seplat acquired the 
jointly operated OML 40 through its indigenous joint-venture 
subsidiary Elcrest, the share of Ubima, and the Aberdeen-based 
technical and service support of the Eland organisation. 

Between them, OML40 and Ubima produced 26.3% of the Group’s 
liquids in 2020.

Eland provides Seplat with increased production and reserves 
and further exposure to exploration potential, as well as 
furthering Seplat’s access to international technical expertise 
and services in Aberdeen to augment our staff in Nigeria.

From December 2019, we have been focused on identifying ways 
in which the Seplat and Elcrest organisations could work 
effectively together, and ways in which the joint venture company 
Elcrest could leverage the Seplat corporate organisation to 
enhance its capabilities and improve operations at OML40. 

From the start of 2020, despite the challenging environment  
of the Covid-19 pandemic and suppressed oil prices, Aberdeen-
based staff continued to support OML 40 operations and, as  
the year progressed the inherent value of the Aberdeen office 
emerged and in December 2020 it was reorganised to become  
a Centre of Excellence for the Seplat group. It will allow Seplat 
greater access to the global energy hub of Aberdeen for 
traditional oil and gas expertise, together with expertise in  
power, renewables and carbon capture. This will include access 
to vendors, technology development and industry networks, and 
importantly to build university links between Nigeria and Scottish 
universities and enable knowledge transfer to Nigeria through 
training of Seplat staff, government partners and communities.

The Seplat Aberdeen office will also host teams for exploration, 
technical support for business development and new energy, 
subsurface, engineering and finance. All of these teams report 
into the Seplat corporate organisation.

Within Nigeria, Seplat has supported Elcrest in areas such  
as corporate social responsibility (CSR), drawing upon the 
experience and expertise of Seplat to develop improved policies 
and procedures, community engagement structures and 
sustainability strategy.

47

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Operational Review – Gas assets

SEPLAT’S  
GAS ASSETS 
2020  
IN REVIEW

Gas business performance 
Alongside the oil business, the Company has also prioritised the 
development and commercialisation of the substantial gas reserves 
identified in its assets. Today, Seplat is a leading supplier of processed 
natural gas to the Nigerian domestic market.

Seplat’s working-interest production for the year was 101MMscfd at 
an average selling price of $2.87/Mscf (2019: 131MMscfd, $2.84/Mscf). 
Gas contributed $112.5 million of Group revenues, or 21.2%. This was 
lower than planned as a result of the indirect impact of Covid-19 on 
Nigerian businesses for most of the year, which affected bulk offtake 
from Oben. Delays in production from Oben-50 gas well further 
exacerbated the effect, following a restoration in demand in the  
later part of the year. 

An electricity tariff increase, that saw prices to consumers rise  
by an average of 75%, became effective in November 2020. This 
cost-reflective tariff has improved the collection system recently 
implemented by the Government and is expected to improve cash  
flow to the power sector and therefore future invoice settlements.

Oben Gas Plant

Sapele Gas Plant

We successfully completed a 
15-day turnaround maintenance 
(TAM) for the Oben Gas Plant in 
March and lessons learned were 
successfully embedded. Gas 
production was affected during 
the maintenance period and 
this impact was amplified by 
third-party infrastructure 
downtime of 17% due to 
associated condensate  
handling challenges. 

The Oben-48 gas well, drilled  
in late 2019, came onstream in 
the first quarter of 2020, while 
Oben-49 came onstream in the 
fourth quarter of 2020. Both 
wells are currently producing  
a gross 42MMscfd combined. 
Oben-50 was drilled in the fourth 
quarter, coming onstream in 
Q1 2021. 

The project is expected to be 
completed in the second half of 
2022, with Sapele’s processing 
capacity increasing from 
60MMscfd to 75MMscfd. The 
upgraded facility will produce 
gas that meets export 
specifications, and the LPG 
processing unit module will 
enhance the economics of the 
plant, as well as ensuring that 
any gas flaring is eliminated.

Decommissioning of the surface 
infrastructure of the existing gas 
plant reached completion in the 
fourth quarter of the year. Site 
preparation and civil 
construction works for the new 
plant have commenced 
alongside piling activities.

For the new plant, we have taken 
delivery of the Associated Gas 
Compressors and seven gas 
generators have been completed 
ex-works. Procurement of the 
remainder packages and the 
balance of the plant equipment is 
at various stages of contracting, 
detailed engineering design and 
fabrication.

48

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Polobo

OML 40

Sibiri
Opuama

Abiala

Gbetiokun

Onitsha

OML 4

Oben

Okwefe

Mosogar

Okporhuru

OML 41

Sapele

Ubaleme

Amukpe

Ovhor

Okoporo

Orogho

OML 38

 Escravos

Warri

 Forcados

Umuseti (Pillar)

Jisike

OPL 283

Igbuku (Pillar)

OML 53

Ohaji  
South

Owerri

Heoma

Odinma

Emeabiam

Alaoma

Omerelu

Owu

Ubima

Port Harcourt

Krakama

OML 55

Soku

Nembe

Dama

Robert Kiri

Ke

Belema

 Brass

Akaso

Bonny

Inda

 Bonny

ANOH Gas Processing Plant

The initial total project cost  
was budgeted at $700 million. 
Following a cost optimisation 
programme, the AGPC 
construction cost is now 
expected to be no more than 
$650 million, inclusive of 
financing costs and taxes, 
significantly lower than the 
original projected cost at FID. 

The ANOH Gas Processing Plant 
development at OML 53 (and 
adjacent OML 21 with which the 
upstream project is unitised) will 
drive the next phase of growth 
for Seplat’s expanding gas 
business. The project will 
comprise a Phase One 
300MMscfd midstream  
gas processing plant. 

The ANOH plant, is being built  
by AGPC, which is an IJV owned 
equally between Seplat and the 
Nigerian Gas Company (NGC),  
a wholly owned subsidiary of 
Nigerian National Petroleum 
Corporation (NNPC). In February 
2021, The IJV, AGPC, successfully 
raised $260 million in debt to 
fund completion of the ANOH 
project. The project is now fully 
funded following completion  
of equity investments of  
$210 million by each partner 
($420 million combined). 

ANOH is one of Nigeria’s most 
strategic gas projects. It will  
help Nigeria to accelerate its 
transition away from small-scale 
diesel generators to cleaner, less 
expensive fuels such as natural 
gas for power generation.

The upstream development, 
including the drilling of six 
production wells, will be 
delivered by the upstream unit 
operator SPDC, with four wells 
expected to be completed 
in 2021. 

We have made excellent 
progress on the project despite 
the Covid-19 challenges and we 
expect the major gas processing 
units to arrive in Nigeria in Q3 
2021, to commence installation 
before the end of the year, with 
mechanical completion and 
pre-commissioning in Q1 2022 
and first gas flowing to 
customers by the end of 
H1 2022. 

Working interest 2P reserves 
(Bscf)

OPL 283

OMLs 4/38/41

66

693

OML 53

742

49

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Operational Review – Special report

DIVERSIFYING 
EXPORT 
ROUTES

New export routes  
should significantly 
improve sales volumes  
by reducing downtime 
and reconciliation losses 
currently experienced  
by using third-party 
infrastructure. 

The minor completion works on the 
160,000bopd pipeline are not within  
Seplat’s control and have been slower  
than anticipated due to a combination of 
challenges associated with access to the 
Escravos terminal owing to Covid-19 and 
issues relating to ownership of the pipeline. 
Our partner NPDC now owns a direct stake  
in the pipeline and we understand they are 
working with the other pipeline owner and 
their banks to enable the completion of the 
project. We have consequently adjusted our 
plan and budgets to expect commencement 
of export of the initial permitted volume of 
40,000bopd through the Escravos terminal 
in the second half of 2021. 

Our strategy is to reduce over-reliance 
on any operated asset or associated 
third-party export route by diversifying 
our production base and exploring or 
creating new export routes over which 
we have more control. 

At OMLs 4, 38 and 41, we have retained 
access to two jetties at the Warri Refinery 
that will enable sustained exports of 
30,000bopd (gross) if required, should 
there be problems with the primary export 
route, the Trans Forcados Pipeline (TFP). 
However, it was not necessary for us to 
activate this alternative export route in 
2020. Security initiatives undertaken by 
the Nigerian Government, as well as our 
own continuity strategies, minimised 
downtime experienced because of the TFP. 

The Amukpe-Escravos Pipeline (AEP) is 
set to provide a third and more secure 
underground evacuation option for liquids 
production from OMLs 4, 38 and 41. Once 
completed, we believe it will significantly 
improve the assets’ production uptime 
(83% in 2020) and reduce losses from 
crude theft and reconciliation (9.4% 
in  2020). 

50

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020OML 40’s production is evacuated through 
the Trans Escravos Pipeline (TEP), which has 
lower reconciliation losses and better uptime 
than the Trans Forcados Pipeline (TFP). There 
is an option being explored to connect the 
AEP line to the TEP through a short 8km spur 
providing an additional route for OML 4, 38 
and 41 production. In addition, an option 
exists to combine the production and secure 
an offshore Floating Production Storage and 
Offloading (FPSO) facility and use it as a 
crude oil export terminal. This should 
significantly improve sales volumes by 
reducing downtime and reconciliation losses 
currently experienced by using third-party 
infrastructure, which are budgeted to 
average an aggregate of 30% per annum. A 
dedicated team is developing these export 
options and we will communicate the details 
in due course.

At OML 53, Seplat plans to construct a crude 
export line to convey production from Ohaji 
South field into Ebocha-Brass Trunkline  
via Ebocha manifold. This will provide an 
alternate evacuation route to Brass Terminal 
and thereby help alleviate production 
deferment from the field.

51

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Financial review

ENSURING 
FINANCIAL 
SUSTAINABILITY

Seplat’s prudent financial management has 
enabled us to maintain dividends, increase 
capital investment and voluntarily repay $100m 
debt, despite the challenging conditions of 2020.

Emeka Onwuka  
Chief Financial Officer

52

Our approach to financial sustainability 
Our robust financial performance in 2020 
demonstrated the importance of a prudent 
approach to managing our finances, 
focusing on capital allocation, revenue 
diversification, cost control, hedging and 
debt management. Despite a challenging 
year in which revenues fell 24% we repaid 
$100 million debt, invested $150 million  
for growth and maintained our dividend  
at $0.10 per share for the year. 

Our approach to financial sustainability  
is outlined below. 

Capital allocation
Financial sustainability begins with the 
decisions we make about capital allocation 
and the priorities we consider when using 
cash. Our aim has always been to maintain  
a healthy balance sheet, focusing on cash 
generation first and foremost so we can build 
up a large reserve for future deployment  
and protect ourselves against the kind of 
downturns the world experienced in 2020. 

Our priorities for the allocation of capital  
are shown in the chart opposite. We focus  
on uses that offer the best possible returns 
for the lowest risk. In our capital investment 
programme, we are investing heavily in our 
gas business in order to serve a potentially 
huge market in which we are already a 
leader. Investing in gas will also help us  
to diversify our revenues against oil price 
volatility as well as provide the kind of 
long-term, highly visible contracts that  
are simply not possible with oil. 

When we consider investments in oil, we  
look at which fields will offer the highest 
returns at a range of different price levels. 
We prioritise those that will have the lowest 
operating costs and are capable of 
profitability even at the low prices we 
experienced in 2020. As price scenarios 
increase, more expensive fields will naturally 
come into consideration and this determines 
our drilling priorities for the future. We will 
also consider supporting infrastructure 
investments that will assure our flow of 
oil more securely, for example through 
dedicated pipelines, to ensure higher 
revenues through the reduction of losses. 

Overall, we invested $150 million in capital 
projects in 2020, compared to $125 million 
in 2019, thereby demonstrating our continuing 
commitment to growth despite the crises 
of 2020. However, referring to the chart 
on page 9, it is clear that we have used 
reductions in capital investment as a 
strategy to conserve cash when necessary, 
and this is an option that remains open to  
us in the future. 

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The reduction of debt is another priority for 
the allocation of our capital. During the year 
we voluntarily repaid $100 million of our 
Revolving Credit Facility, thereby reducing 
our debt but maintaining the headroom to 
use it, if necessary, in the future. In addition, 
we constantly seek to optimise the terms 
under which we take on debt. We continue  
to look at refinancing opportunities as 
appropriate, including in the debt 
capital markets.

Dividends are another priority for capital 
allocation. Our aim is to maintain a core 
dividend of $0.05 per share and top it up with 
a further $0.05 per share whenever we feel it 
is appropriate. As other companies were 
cutting back their dividend payments for the 
2019 financial year and looking to keep them 
low in 2020, we honoured our commitments 
for 2019 and again declared a total dividend 
of $0.10 per share in 2020. 

In addition to organic growth we continue  
to look for low-risk, value-enhancing 
opportunities to growth through 
acquisitions, either of operating assets  
or in the case of Eland, other energy 
companies. It should be remembered that 
our acquisition of Eland not only brought us 
its operating assets but also the right to be 
repaid a loan of more than $400 million in 
cash over the coming years. 

Our robust financial 
performance in 2020 
demonstrated the 
importance of a prudent 
approach to managing 
our finances, focusing 
on capital allocation, 
revenue diversification, 
cost control, hedging 
and debt management.

Revenue diversification
Given the volatility of oil revenues, our 
expansion into gas represents another 
strategy to ensure long-term financial (and 
environmental) sustainability. As outlined  
in pages 64-67, gas has huge potential to 
power Nigeria’s future economic and societal 
growth. Gas has the benefits of long-term, 
more visible contracts with lower royalties 
and taxes that enable higher drop-through 
of cash. We will continue to increase the 
contribution of gas to our revenue mix and 
expect a significant boost from dividends we 
receive when our joint-venture ANOH Gas 
Processing Plant begins operation next year. 

Clearly focused capital allocation priorities
We are focused on low-risk strategies to generate and deploy cash  
to grow the business and improve stakeholder returns

Low-risk  
capital investment

Returns to 
shareholders

Repayment  
of debt

•  10c for 2020

•  Successful $650m 

•  Invest in growing  
the gas business  
to fuel Nigeria’s 
increasing demand

•  Develop ANOH for 
long-term growth

•  Since raising 

$535m at listing  
we have returned 
$344m (by end  
of 2020) 

•  Offset expected 

•  Maintain core 

decline in oil wells by 
developing low-risk 
wells / prospects

•  Sustain and 

optimise production

dividend of $0.05 
per share at 9M 
results, top up 
$0.05 at full-year 
results as 
appropriate

Value-creating  
M & A

•  Seek low-risk 
opportunities  
for growth that 
enhance NAV  
and FCF

•  Opportunity to 
consolidate 
Nigerian market 
though acquisition 
of assets divested 
by IOCs and 
distressed 
small-scale 
operators

bond offer in 
March 2021 to 
redeem existing 
$350m Senior 
notes and repay 
$250m drawn on 
$350m Revolving 
Credit Facility 

•  Refinanced Eland’s 
$100m Reserve- 
Based Loan on 
18th March 2021 
with new five-year 
$100m RBL facility 
due March 2026

•  Maintain optimal 
balance of cash 
and debt

Cost control
We maintain a relentless focus on cost 
control at all times but in 2020 we were able 
to achieve even deeper cuts as the pandemic 
took hold and demand for oil was reduced. 
We renegotiated key supply contracts to 
achieve cuts of more than 30% in some 
cases, thereby enabling us to remain 
profitable at the lower prices experienced 
during the year. A notable example was the 
saving we achieved in barging costs at OML 
40, where we were able to reduce these from 
$14/bbl to around $5/bbl during the second 
half of the year. In addition, a natural 
consequence of the pandemic was a 
reduction in travel and office costs. 

Hedging
Our approach to hedging oil revenues is 
based upon the desire to protect from 
excessive downside shocks at the best 
achievable cost. In 2020, this strategy proved 
its worth as oil prices collapsed in the 
second quarter. The details of our hedging 
strategy are shown in the table below. 

Details of hedging 2020

Revenue, production and commodity prices
The Brent oil price averaged $43.21/bbl over 
2020 (2019: $64.04/bbl). Brent remained 
volatile throughout the year, following the 
twin shocks of the Saudi Arabia – Russia 
price war and the Covid-19 pandemic, 
trading between a high of $68.91/bbl in 
January and a low of $19.33/bbl in April, 
before exiting the year at $51.80/bbl.

Total revenue in 2020 was $530.5 million, 
down 24.0% from the $697.7 million achieved 
in 2019. Crude oil revenue was $417.9 million 
(2019: $495.1 million) a 15.6% reduction 
compared to 2019, largely reflecting lower 
realised oil prices of $39.95/bbl for the period 
(2019: $64.4/bbl) offset by added production 
primarily from the Eland assets. Following  
the completion of its acquisition, Eland’s 
revenues and costs are included in the 
full-year 2020 accounts but not reflected  
in 2019. A $50.0 million oil underlift was 
recorded under other income in the period, 
compared to an overlift of $6.8 million in 2019. 

Period
Q1

Q2

Q3

Q4

Barrels hedged 
(Mbbls)
1.5

Strike price 
($)
$45

1.5

1.5

1.5

0.5

$45

$45

$30

$35

Cost 
(bbl)
$0.83

$0.75

$0.99

$1.49

$1.04

Payment received 
(gross)
–

$23.16m

$3.08m

–

–

53

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Financial review | continued

Average working-interest liquids production 
was 33,714bopd, up 40.9% from 23,935bopd 
in 2019, whilst the total volume of crude lifted 
in the year was 10.5 MMbbls compared to 7.7 
MMbbls in 2019. The higher volume was due 
to a maiden contribution from OML40 and 
Ubima, and higher production from OML 53, 
though constrained by OPEC+ cuts of 
410,000bbls (on a gross basis) allotted to  
the Group. The Company experienced TFP 
reconciliation losses of 9.4% for the period, 
but we expect these to fall when the 
Amukpe-Escravos underground pipeline 
comes onstream.

Gas sales revenue decreased by 17.1% to 
$112.5 million (2019: $135.8 million), due  
to lower gas sales volumes of 37.1 Bscf 
compared to 47.8 Bscf in 2019. The lower gas 
sales volumes reflect lower-than-expected 
gas production owing to constrained 
demand due to the impact of the pandemic 
and delays in completing the Oben-50 gas 
well, following a restoration in demand. 
There were no gas-processing revenues  
in the period, compared with the one-off 
gas-processing revenue of $66.9 million in 
2019, which was the Oben gas plant tolling 
payment by NPDC. 

The average realised gas price was slightly 
higher, at $2.87/Mscf (2019: $2.84/Mscf). 
Gas sales contributed 21.2% of total Group 
revenue in 2020 (2019: 19.5%). 

Cost-saving initiatives
During the year, a comprehensive cost-
saving programme was developed to adapt 
to current market conditions. Through the 
implementation of these actions, the Group 
aims to reduce costs by at least 30% across 
the business by the end of 2021. Across 
2020, we achieved $17 million in cost savings 
through these various initiatives. Towards 
opex and G&A reduction, IT, administrative 
and travel costs have been reduced to the 
essentials and all third-party and service 
contracts were renegotiated downwards. 
This is reflected in General and 
Administrative expenses holding relatively 
stable at $76.0 million despite a higher 
depreciation charge and the consolidation  
of Eland (2019: $70.6 million). 

The capital investment programme was 
revised to conserve cash and manage 
liquidity. In terms of efficiency, we significantly 
improved our technologies to support secure 
and reliable virtual collaboration, which 
increased employee productivity in a work 
from home environment. Additionally,  
Wells, Reservoir and Facilities Management 
recommendations and learnings from  
the Oben Gas Plant maintenance were 
implemented. The Group intends to  
continue to simplify activities and  
increase their efficiency. 

54

As other companies  
were cutting back their 
dividend payments for 
the 2019 financial year 
and looking to keep them 
low in 2020, we honoured 
our commitments for 
2019 and again declared 
a total dividend of $0.10 
per share in 2020.

Gross profit
Gross profit decreased to $124.6 million 
(2019: $395.7 million) due to lower oil prices 
and higher non-production costs primarily 
consisting of royalties and DD&A, which were 
$228.8 million compared to $187.7 million in 
the prior year. The DD&A charge for oil and 
gas assets increased to $127.5 million during 
2020 (2019: $91.1 million), reflecting higher 
depletion of reserves because of increased 
production compared to the prior year. 

Direct operating costs, which include 
crude-handling fees, rig-related costs  
and operations and maintenance costs 
amounted to $151.8 million in 2020,  
44.2% higher than $105.3 million in 2019. 
Production evacuation from the Gbetiokun 
and Ubima fields resulted in barging and 
trucking costs of $15.9 million. These 
increased costs reflect the additional 
production volumes from the Eland assets 
and resultant increase in royalties and crude 
handling fees. On a cost-per-barrel basis, 
production opex was higher at $8.90/boe 
(2019: $6.20/boe) because of the effect of 
OPEC+ restrictions that curtailed production 
volumes and the trucking and barging costs 
at Gbetiokun. However, benefits of the 
successful streamlining of the Gbetiokun 
operations have driven barging costs down 
from $14/bbl to $5/bbl. 

Non-cash IAS 36 impairments
As previously reported, under IAS 36 the 
Company identified the need to revalue  
its assets due to the significant economic 
uncertainty of the Covid-19 crisis.  
Following a reassessment of the business 
models and assumptions to establish their 
reasonableness and practicality, particularly 
in the current and expected oil price 
environment, we decided to book a  
non-cash provision of $114.4 million  
across non-financial assets in the period.

Operating results
After adjusting for non-cash impairments 
and fair value losses, the operating profit 
was $121.4 million. Including all 
adjustments, the operating loss for the year 
was $31.7 million (operating profit 2019: 
$311.9 million). The loss reflects lower oil 
prices realised and an impairment provision 
of $144.3 million booked in the period, which 
includes a non-financial asset charge of 
$114.4 million (IAS 36 as detailed above) and 
financial asset charges of $29.9 million 
(IFRS 9). The financial asset charge includes 
charges against a deposit made for a 
potential investment that the Company  
will no longer pursue. Other income of 
$83.9 million includes an adjustment for a 
$50.0 million underlift position (shortfalls  
of crude lifted below Seplat’s share of 
production, which is priced at the date of 
lifting and recognised as other income) and 
the $2.2 million tariff income generated from 
the use of the Company’s pipeline. Hedging 
income of $26.4 million was received in  
the period; $8.3 million hedging costs are 
recognised as fair value charges. The stated 
$7.2 million provision no longer required 
relates to a contingent liability initially 
recognised on acquisition of Eland. 

An EBITDA of $265.8 million adjusts for 
impairment and other non-cash items, 
equating to a margin of 50.1% for the year. 

Tax
The Group’s tax charge for 2020 was 
$5.1 million, compared to $29.1 million 
for 2019. 

The tax charge is made up of a deferred  
tax credit of $8.5 million and a current tax 
charge of $13.6 million. The deferred tax 
credit is mainly driven by the unutilised 
capital allowances and unutilised tax losses 
for the period. The estimated effective tax 
rate used for the year ended 31 December 
2020 was 6% (2019: 10%). The reduction in 
the effective tax rate was principally due to 
the recognition of tax losses available for 
utilisation against future profit.

In May 2015, in line with sections of the 
Companies Income Tax Act, which provides 
incentives to companies that deliver gas 
utilisation projects, Seplat was granted  
a three-year tax holiday with a possible 
extension of two years. In 2018, upon review 
of the performance of the business, the 
Group provided a notification to the Federal 
Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) for the 
extension of claim for the additional 
two-year tax holiday. Effective May 2020,  
the five-year tax holiday benefit for the  
gas business ended and the financial 
statements have been prepared on 
this basis.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Net result
Loss before tax was $80.2 million, compared 
to a profit before tax of $292.9 million in 
2019. The higher net finance charge of 
$50.2 million in 2020 includes interest on  
the $350 million RCF in December and the 
consolidation of Eland finance (2019: 
$20.1 million). Loss for the year was 
$85.3 million (2019: $277.0 million profit). 

The resultant basic loss per share was  
$0.13 in 2020, compared to an EPS of 
$0.49 in 2019. The reduction was mainly due 
to lower oil prices and impairment charges 
described above.

Dividend
In line with the dividend policy, the Board has 
recommended a final dividend of $0.05 per 
share. This will bring the total dividend to 
$0.10 per share (2019: $0.10 per share). 

Subject to approval of shareholders, the 
dividend will be paid shortly after the Annual 
General Meeting, which will be held in Lagos, 
Nigeria, on 20 May 2020. 

Repayment of Elcrest development loan 
to Seplat 
In acquiring Eland, Seplat has acquired the 
right to be repaid a shareholder loan. The 
loan was advanced to Elcrest by Westport, 
Eland’s 100%-owned financing subsidiary 
for the development of OML 40. Following  
its acquisition of Eland, Seplat is entitled  
to 100% of Elcrest’s production and net  
cash flows until the loan is repaid in full. At 
31 December 2020, the outstanding balance 
of the loan was approximately $417 million. 

After repayment of the loan, Seplat’s interest 
in OML 40’s production and net cash flows 
will revert to 20.25%, representing its 45% 
interest in Elcrest, which in turn owns 45%  
of OML 40. 

Cash flows from operating activities
Net cash flows from operating activities, 
after movements in working capital, were 
$308.7 million (2019: $337.8 million). An 
income tax payment of $10.4 million was 
made in the period (2019: $3.5 million).

The Group received $188.1 million from  
the major JV towards the settlement of 
outstanding dollar-denominated cash  
calls and $154.2 million (Naira equivalent)  
to offset Naira cash calls totalling 
$342.3 million received in 2020. This 
compares favourably to $179 million 
received in 2019.

The major JV receivable balance now stands 
at $107.0 million, down from $222.3 million  
at the end of 2019. 

Revenue breakdown by oil and gas ($m)

2019

2020

202.4

495.1

112.5

417.9

  Gas

  Oil

  Gas

  Oil

-24.0%

Revenue $530.5 million
Oil revenue was 15.6% down at 
$417.9 million, largely reflecting lower 
realised oil prices of $39.95/bbl for the 
period (2019: $64.4/bbl) offset by added 
production primarily from the Eland assets.

-52.0%

Major JV receivable reduced
The major JV receivable balance now stands 
at $107.0 million, down from $222.3 million at 
the end of 2019.

-8.6%

Net cash flow from operations $309 million
Net cash flows from operating activities, 
after movements in working capital, were 
$308.7 million (2019: $337.8 million). An 
income tax payment of $10.4 million was 
made in the period (2019: $3.5 million).

+20.3%

-3.7%

Capital expenditure $150.1 million
Capital expenditures were $150.1 million 
including costs of around $83.5 million  
for drilling and completion of nine wells 
including three gas wells and six 
development oil wells that were completed 
earlier in the year. Associated facilities and 
engineering costs amounted to $61.3 million.

Net debt $439.7 million
Seplat ended the year with gross debt of 
$698.4 million with most maturities in 2023, 
and cash at bank of $258.7 million, which 
includes restricted cash of $33.6 million, 
leaving net debt at $439.7 million.

55

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Cash flows from investing activities
The Group implemented a modest capex 
programme for the majority of 2020, in 
response to low oil prices caused by a price 
war between OPEC+ members in the first 
half of the year, exacerbated by the impact of 
Covid-19 on global oil demand. Our planned 
spend of $120.0 million for 2020 was 
designed to sustain production from our oil 
wells and increase gas production in order  
to meet our gas contractual obligations. 

Mindful that we cannot fully control the pace 
of project execution in this environment, the 
Group established various initiatives to 
maximise work programme flexibility while 
preserving cash. Most of the Group’s capital 
expenditures are discretionary with the 
flexibility to align investment with cash flow 
in response to prevailing conditions and 
future growth opportunities. As oil prices 
improved, an additional capex of $30 million 
was approved in the fourth quarter of 2020, 
towards drilling the ANOH upstream wells at 
OML 53 and project costs related to delivery 
of the Sapele Gas plant.

Most of the Group’s 
capital expenditures  
are discretionary with 
the flexibility to align 
investment with cash 
flow in response to 
prevailing conditions  
and future growth 
opportunities. Capital 
expenditures were 
$150.1 million in 2020 
and included costs of 
around $83.5 million for 
drilling and completion 
of nine wells.

As a result, capital expenditures were 
$150.1 million in 2020 and included costs  
of around $83.5 million for drilling and 
completion of nine wells including three gas 
wells (completion of Oben 48; Oben 49 and 
Oben 50) and six development oil wells 
(Sapele-35, Ovhor-6ST, Ovhor-20, Ohaji 
South-5, Ohaji South-6 and Gbetiokun-5) 
that were completed earlier in the year. 
Associated facilities and engineering costs 
amounted to $61.3 million.

The payment of $60.0 million reflects the 
final equity contribution towards the ANOH 
Gas Processing Plant project. 

The Group received total proceeds of 
$4.8 million under the revised OML 55 
commercial arrangement with Belema Oil for 
the monetisation of 67.5 kbbls. Recovery 
during the year was impacted by OPEC+ 
production cuts and low oil prices.

After adjusting for interest receipts of 
$1.7 million, the net cash outflow from 
investing activities was $203.7 million 
compared to a net cash outflow in 2019 of 
$732.9 million, which included the AGPC 
deconsolidation, ANOH equity contribution 
and acquisition costs in 2019.

56

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Cash flows from financing activities
Net cash outflows from financing activities 
were $217.4 million (2019 net cash inflows: 
$145.2 million). This reflects a further 
$10.0 million drawn from the Westport RBL 
facility, interest of $64.8 million paid on loans 
and dividend payments to shareholders of 
$58.3 million. In August 2020, the Company 
repaid $100.0 million of the revolver.

Seplat ended the year with gross debt of 
$698.4 million with most maturities in 2023, 
and cash at bank of $258.7 million, which 
includes restricted cash of $33.6 million, 
leaving net debt at $439.7 million.

Issue of $650m senior notes
On 25 March 2021, the Company priced its 
offering of $650 million in aggregate principal 
amount of 7.75% senior notes due 2026 (the 
“Notes”). The gross proceeds of the Notes will 
be used to redeem the existing $350 million 
9.25% senior notes due 2023, to repay 
drawings of $250 million under the existing 
$350 million revolving credit facility, for 
general corporate purposes, and to pay 
transaction fees and expenses. 

Reserve-Based Loan (RBL)
Eland’s existing RBL was consolidated into 
the Group’s balance sheet in 2020. The RBL 
was most recently refinanced in November 
2018, via the Group’s subsidiary Westport Oil 
Limited, and was a five-year loan agreement 
with interest payable semi-annually, with the 
maximum facility amount starting to reduce 
in January 2020. The RBL was secured 
against the Group’s producing assets in OML 
40 via the Group’s shares in Elcrest, and by 
way of a debenture that created a charge 
over certain assets of the Group, including  
its bank accounts. The available facility  
was capped at the lower of the available 
commitments and the borrowing base.

In March 2021 we announced that Seplat’s 
wholly owned subsidiary, Westport Oil 
Limited, had successfully refinanced its 
existing US$100 million reserve-based 
lending facility due November 2023 with a 
new five-year US$100 million reserve-based 
lending facility due March 2026. 

The RBL carries initial interest of LIBOR + 8% 
payable semi-annually. The five-year RBL  
is scheduled to commence repayment from 
March 2023. The RBL includes a US$75 
million accordion to accommodate further 
commitments in the future. 

Dividends returned to shareholders
$m

Hedging
Seplat’s hedging policy aims to guarantee 
appropriate levels of cash flow assurance  
in times of oil price weakness and volatility. 
During 2020, the Group had in place dated 
Brent put options covering a volume of 6.5 
MMbbls as follows: (i) for Q1, Q2 and Q3, 
1.5MMbbls for each quarter at a strike price 
of $45/bbl; and (ii) for Q4, 1.5MMbbls at a 
strike price of $30/bbl and 0.5MMbbls at  
a strike price of $35/bbl. 

This hedging programme has been continued 
in 2021 with up-front-premium put options 
as follows: (i) for Q1, 1.0MMbbls at a strike 
price of $30/bbl and 1.0MMbbls at a strike 
price of $35/bbl; (ii) for Q2, 2.0MMbbls at  
a strike price of $35/bbl; and (iii) for Q3, 
1.0MMbbls at a strike price of $35/bbl  
and 1.0MMbbls at a strike price of $40/bbl. 
The Board and management team continue 
to closely monitor prevailing oil market 
dynamics and will consider further measures 
to provide appropriate levels of cash flow 
assurance in times of oil price weakness 
and volatility.

Credit ratings
Seplat maintains corporate credit ratings 
with Moody’s Investor Services (Moody’s), 
Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Rating Services  
and Fitch. The current corporate ratings  
are as follows: (i) Moody’s B2 (negative);  
(ii) S&P B (although the bonds are rated  
B- due to priority indebtedness) and  
(ii) Fitch B- (positive).

$344m
total 

58.3

58.7

58.9

Emeka Onwuka  
Chief Financial Officer

22.5

0.0

71.8

400.0

300.0

200.0

100.0

73.2

0

2014 

2015

2016

2017

2018 

2019

2020

Liquidity
The balance sheet continues to remain healthy with a solid liquidity position.

Net debt reconciliation 
at 31 December 2020
Senior Notes*

Revolving Credit Facility*

Westport RBL*

Total borrowings

Cash and cash equivalents

Net debt

*  including amortised interest.

Coupon
9.25%

LIBOR+6.00%

Maturity
June 2023

June 2022/ 
December 2023

LIBOR+8%

November 2023

$ million
353.4

246.4

98.6

698.4

258.7

439.7

57

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility

58

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020SAFETY 
ENVIRONMENT 
COMMUNITIES 
PEOPLE

Seplat is committed to being a best practice operator 
and a responsible and accountable corporate citizen as 
demonstrated in the approach to our operations. This is 
further illustrated through the strong relationships that 
we have built with our host communities and other 
stakeholders to create a stable operating environment 
with positive socio-economic outcomes.

59

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility | continued
Corporate social responsibility | continued

ENSURING A HEALTHY 
WORKFORCE, SAFE 
OPERATIONS AND 
ENVIRONMENTAL 
CONSERVATION

At Seplat, we believe we have a role to play  
in shaping the future of energy in Nigeria.

• At the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, 

measures were immediately put in place to 
protect our personnel and operations from 
the spread of the illness: 

• Lessons learnt from incident investigations 
were shared company-wide via LFIs, HSE 
meetings and other personnel and 
contractors’ engagement fora. 

• We continued sustained focus on asset 

integrity and maintenance of safety critical 
elements by conducting a comprehensive 
audit and health check on the Asset Integrity 
and Maintenance Management Systems. 

• We conducted trainings for frontline 

leaders to drive safety leadership amongst 
the workforce.

Environment
In all Seplat projects and operations, our 
objective is to manage the environmental 
and social impacts of our activities.

• We remain committed to environmental 

protection and sustainability by identifying 
and evaluating the impacts of our activities 
on the environment. Environmental Impact 
Assessment studies were carried out for four 
fields – Amukpe, Jisike, Ogume and Owu.

• We continued with our Environmental 
Compliance Monitoring Programme to 
ensure environmentally safe and sound 
operations and compliance with all 
regulatory requirements. 

• We developed a verifiable process for Green 

House Gas Emissions quantification to 
monitor effectiveness of the ongoing Flares 
Out projects.

Jay Smulders 
Technical Director

HSE strategic principles
Our HSE Policy is implemented with 
consideration for guidelines stipulated 
in ISO 45001 & ISO 14001. This is further 
reinforced by the Company’s HSE 
Management System to guarantee 
adherence to local regulations, industry 
standards, and international best 
practices. Our HSE philosophy is 
communicated to all employees, 
customers, contractors, and other 
stakeholders of our business. 

At Seplat, we are governed by the three 
core strategic principles of our HSE policy:

 – Infrared thermometers, hand sanitisers 
and face masks were deployed to all 
operating locations for immediate 
distribution and use.

 – A multi-discipline Corona Virus Monitoring 
Group (COVIMOG) was set up to monitor 
and coordinate Seplat’s response to the 
pandemic with a view to sustaining 
operations.

 – Operations Continuity Teams were set 

• Healthy Employees and Safe Workplaces

up at the two operational bases.

• Environmental Protection 

and Sustainability

• Mutual Respect with Host Communities 

and Local Stakeholders

Health
We have been working to protect our 
people through a more systematic 
approach to health.

• We provided comprehensive health 

services and access to all employees.

• We provided 24-hour clinical coverage in 
all our areas of operation with standby 
ambulances for emergencies. 

• Employees and guests are encouraged 
to be more proactive towards a healthy 
lifestyle via health campaigns and 
provision of biometric monitoring 
equipment in all facilities.

• A personal fitness programme has  

been introduced into daily activities of 
office-based personnel while a fitness 
gym is provided in our Field Logistic Bases.

 – NCDC approved laboratories and hospitals 
were engaged for provision of PCR testing 
and clinical services for positive cases.

 – Almost 3,000 PCR tests conducted with 

less than 0.5% positive cases; all positive 
cases treated and returned to work. 

Safe operations and prevention  
of major incidents
We continue to promote deep capability and 
safe operating culture across our locations.

• Recorded Zero Lost Time Injury or Fatality 
for more than two years of our operation.

• Introduced 11 Mandatory Safety 

Rules which were rolled out across the 
organisation to reinforce the required 
foundations for improvements in our 
safety culture.

• Leadership Commitment continued 
to be demonstrated through senior 
management review of all high potential 
incidents. 300% more incidents were 
reviewed in 2020 compared with 2019 
and all recommendations are being 
implemented. 

60

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20202020 Performance review
In 2020, we sustained our performance in 
keeping people safe with zero lost time injury 
incidents (LTI) and fatality. Due to a variety of 
safety initiatives implemented across the 
organisation, Lost Time Injury Frequency 
(LTIF) has dropped steadily from 0.33 in 2016 
to 0 in 2019. This was also sustained in 2020. 

The gas stations were optimised to achieve 
high availability of compressor uptime. The 
compressor units were also overhauled in 
some stations to attain a 39% reduction in 
gas flared in 2020 from 2019. The Flares Out 
project is still on course with planned 
construction of additional Booster 
Compressors in all operating facilities 
in 2021. 

We continue to improve on environmental 
impact via effective pipeline integrity  
and leaks management. Seven spills 
(>0.75bbl or equivalent of 1kg) were recorded. 
Replacement of aged pipelines and integrity 
checks are continuously conducted.

We took proactive steps to protect 
biodiversity and groundwater in our 
operations and like previous years, the 
effects of our operations on groundwater 
contamination remained nil.

In the coming years we will continue to strive 
for an even greater improvement in our HSE 
performance across Seplat operations.

5 Years Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF) Trend

0.35

0.30

0.25

0.20

0.15

0.10

0.05

0.00

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Health and Safety – 2020 performance review:

Fatalities  
(employee and contractor)
Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF)

2014
0

2015
0

2016
0

2017
0

2018
0

2019
0

2020
0

0.4

0

0.33

0.31

0.14

0

0

Environment – 2020 performance review:

Flaring – million standard  
cubic feet (MMscf)
Volume of oil spilled through own 
operations (Thousand tonnes)

Volume of oil spilled through 
sabotage (Thousand tonnes)
Groundwater contamination
Freshwater consumption 
(MMbbls)
Total Greenhouse Gas Emissions  
(MM tonnes CO2 equivalent)

2014
9,465

2015
7,642

2016
4,757

2018

2017
2020
8,418 6,487.99 8,910.18 10,624.97

2019

0.0004

0.1089

0.002

0.002 0.0032

0.001

0.0091

0.0014 0.0021

0.002

Nil 0.0001 0.0001

0.0037

Nil
1.18

Nil
1.5

Nil
0.28

Nil
0.24

Nil
0.19

Nil
0.19

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

N/A

Nil
0.19

2.8

61

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility | continued
Corporate social responsibility | continued

ELCREST HSE 
REPORT

Ensuring a healthy workforce, safe operations  
and environmental conservation.

HSE strategic principles
At Elcrest, we are governed by the three 
core strategic principles of our HSE policy:

• No harm to people 

• Accident free workplaces

• No damage to the environment

Health
• We provide comprehensive health services 
to all employees and access to a medical 
doctor to provide medical advice 

• We provide 24-hour clinical coverage in 
all our areas of operation with standby 
ambulances for emergencies and 
retainership agreements with local 
hospitals/clinics

• Covid-19 pandemic preventive/control 

measures were immediately implemented 
to protect our personnel and operations 
from the spread of the illness, these 
included: 

 – Infrared thermometers, hand sanitisers 
and face masks were deployed to all 
operating locations for immediate 
distribution and use.

 – C-19 Monitoring by HR interfaces with 

Seplat COVIDMOG for coordination and 
response to the pandemic with a view to 
sustaining operations with minimum 
impact of the C-19 virus.

 – C-19 protocols have been implemented 

and complied with strictly at field 
operations to ensure business continuity 
with minimum impact of Covid-19 virus. 

 – Temperature testing and medical 

assessment of all personnel arriving on 
site, either first time arrivals or returning 
from rotational leave. 

Safe operations and prevention  
of major incidents
HSE Manager and Technical HSE Lead 
appointed to Elcrest HSE Team in November 
and December 2020.

Environment
• We remain committed to environmental 

protection and sustainability by identifying 
and evaluating the impacts of our activities 
on the environment. 

• Environmental Impact Assessment 
study was carried out for Gbetiokun 
field development.

• Standby spill response team and 

equipment provided for response to the 
risky impact of potential oil/chemical spill 
in the swamps.

2020 performance review
In 2020, we maintained zero LTI and 
disseminated the learning from BRVS 
incident and commenced safety culture 
improvement programmes Company-wide.

All operational sites have competent Site 
HSE Officers (and back-to-back) in place to 
monitor, advise, train workforce and report 
daily to Project and HSE Management.

• Sixteen of the recommendations, including 
all high-priority items, have been closed 
out and the final two items will be 
concluded shortly. 

• Clear Leadership commitment 

demonstrated through Management 
Facilities Visits (MFV), reviews of all incidents 
at the monthly Incident Review Panel (IRP) 
meeting and active participation at all HSE 
meetings. Management involvement in 
implementation of incident investigation and 
site inspection recommended actions has 
taken a high priority.

• Lessons learnt from incident investigations 
were shared Company-wide through HSE 
meetings and the quarterly contractor’s 
engagement forum. 

• Conducted Permit to Work and Safe 

Systems of Work training for field personnel 
and supervisors.

Health and Safety – 2020 performance review:

Fatalities (employee and contractor)
Lost Time Injury Frequency (LTIF)

Environment – 2020 performance review:

Flaring – million standard  
cubic feet (MMscf)
Volume of oil spilled through own 
operations (Thousand tonnes)

Volume of oil spilled through sabotage 
(Thousand tonnes)
Groundwater contamination
Freshwater consumption (MMbbls)

Total Greenhouse Gas Emissions  
(MM tonnes CO2 equivalent)

2020
7
0.00

2020
2,257

0.1159

0.000567

Nil
N/A

0.13

62

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020BRVS incident
Accident summary
On 7 July 2020, a tragic accident involving seven  
fatalities occurred due to an explosion during 
planned maintenance work by contractors at the 
Benin River Valve Station on OML 40 in Delta State. 
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families 
and friends of all those who lost their lives. The 
NPDC/Elcrest joint venture has provided support  
to all the bereaved families. 

Field operations at Gbetiokun, 30km away, were 
unaffected, but we suspended operations to allow 
repairs to the export site, which were concluded in 
August. Three investigation teams including a 
DPR-led team, an independent investigator and a 
combined team of NPDC/Elcrest (led by NPDC as  
the operator) began separate investigations in the 
immediate aftermath of the accident. Over the 
course of the investigation, a multi-disciplinary team 
of experienced internal and external specialist 
personnel was constituted to distil out lessons from 
the accident and review operational practices with a 
view to revising operational controls to prevent such 
incidents in the future. 

Results of investigations
The investigations identified failure of the Permit to 
Work system as the root cause of the incident and 
recommended improvement actions. A total of 16 
key findings related to the causes of the accident 
emerged. The team developed a series of 18 
recommendations to address each of its key 
findings, which are intended to enable prevention of 
similar accidents as well as address other potential 
issues. Categories of the findings included gaps in 
documentation, training, processes and interface 
management. 

Our response
We recognised that full implementation of the  
18 recommendations would involve long-term 
commitment and a team was set up to drive HSE gap 
closure. A prioritised action plan was put in place 
with due dates and accountabilities for each 
element of the plan, with actions tracked to 
completion. Sixteen of the recommendations, 
including all high-urgency items, have been closed 
out and the final two items will be concluded shortly. 
Elcrest’s management has prioritised building a 
robust HSE culture across the organisation and aims 
to finalise implementation of the enhanced 
standards across its locations.

63

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ENVIRONMENT

Roger Thompson Brown 
Chief Executive Officer

Our primary aim at Seplat is to meet Nigeria’s 
energy needs in an economically, socially  
and environmentally responsible way. We are 
committed to taking utmost care to properly 
assess and manage environmental risks  
and minimise our environmental impact. 

Following an extensive gap analysis  
of Seplat’s sustainability approach, 
conducted by an external party in 2020, 
we have taken steps to integrate climate 
change into our overall corporate strategy. 
These steps, and the actions we are 
planning to undertake will move Seplat 
towards full alignment with the guidelines 
of the Taskforce for Climate-related 
Financial Disclosures (TCFD). They will 
help ensure that all strategic decision 
making is informed by a proper 
assessment of climate-related risks  
and opportunities, in line with our  
broader sustainability commitments. 

The TCFD recommendations are 
structured around four thematic areas: 
governance, strategy, risk management, 
and metrics and targets.

GOVERNANCE

Role of management
Climate change and sustainability are 
integrated across all business functions 
within Seplat, with each area of the business 
playing a role in shaping and working 
towards our long-term climate ambition.  
As CEO, I am responsible for guiding Seplat’s 
climate strategy, identifying the main 
climate-related risks to the business and 
monitoring the Company’s progress against 
key climate and sustainability goals. To 
enhance governance of sustainability and 
climate-related issues, we created a 
dedicated organisational structure in 2020 
to streamline our work in this area. The 
figure below shows the business functions 
and executives with clear responsibilities 
related to managing and mitigating 
climate-related risks and opportunities.

While we believe that fossil fuels are critical 
to ensuring the sustainable development of 
Nigeria, we also recognise the risks that 
climate change poses to our business and 
the local communities around our 
operations. We are therefore committed to 
providing clean and affordable energy to 
Nigeria while minimising the effects of 
climate change and preserving the 
environment. We believe the most immediate 
priority is to replace small-scale off-grid 
diesel power generation by transitioning  
to utility-scale gas-fired power stations, 
providing much needed base load energy  
as a step towards a longer-term 
renewable generation. 

We recognise climate science and support 
the goals of the Paris Agreement to keep 
global temperature increase to well below 
2°C. We also support the United Nations 
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 
are actively working towards achieving these 
goals in Nigeria, including Goal 13 on Climate 
Action. To that end, we support the efforts of 
the Nigerian Government and the 
international community to minimise and 
manage the impacts of climate change and 
facilitate economic development in a 
climate-resilient Nigeria. 

64

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The Risk Management and HSSE 
Committee supports the Board in 
maintaining effective oversight of Seplat’s 
risk management framework and profile, 
including as it pertains to climate-related 
risks and opportunities. 

Under its current composition, our Board 
is well positioned to assess the strategic 
implications of climate change on our 
business and scrutinise our response, 
with several of our Board members having 
sufficient subject-matter knowledge to 
understand climate-related risks and 
opportunities. Nevertheless, we are 
working to enhance our Board’s knowledge 
and understanding of climate change as it 
relates to our business and intend to 
consider the climate-specific credentials 
of future appointees, alongside our 
assessment of their broader experience in 
sustainability-related issues in the oil and 
gas industry.

In 2021, we will continue engagement and 
training activities for Seplat employees 
relating to sustainability, including specific 
training on climate change for relevant 
personnel in order to increase internal 
awareness and understanding of the issue 
and its importance to our business.

Role of the Board
Responsibility for the governance of 
sustainability issues, including climate 
change, within Seplat rests with our Board  
of Directors. The Board recognises both the 
risks and opportunities that climate change 
presents to Seplat’s business and works 
with Executive Management to ensure the 
Company’s response considers both the 
external context and the interests of 
stakeholders. 

The Board plays a crucial role in guiding 
Seplat’s strategic approach to climate 
change and assessing the main climate-
related risks to the Company’s portfolio. 
Several committees support the Board’s 
oversight of climate-related issues. 

The CSR Committee assists the Board in 
overseeing the Company’s sustainability  
and ESG-related performance, policies and 
practices, including on climate-related 
issues. The Committee is responsible for 
understanding the impact of climate change 
on local communities and ensuring that 
Seplat has taken the necessary steps to 
mitigate its impacts. 

Seplat Board of Directors (BoD) 
Climate change management is overseen by Seplat’s BoD and is discussed at every Board meeting. 

Board Committees  
The BoD is supported in its oversight function by two main committees. The Terms of Reference  
for both committees have been recently revised to include clear mandates for climate  
change-related issues: 

•  The Risk Management and HSSE Committee oversees Seplat’s processes for identifying,  

managing and mitigating climate-related risks and opportunities. 

•  The CSR/Sustainability Committee has primary responsibility for providing strategic direction  
on Company-wide ESG, social responsibility and climate change issues. The committee also 
monitors Company performance against its climate goals. 

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 
Seplat’s CEO is responsible for managing climate change-related risks  
and opportunities and implementing our climate change response. 

External Affairs Department  
Seplat’s sustainability function sits under the External Affairs 
Department. The Director, External Affairs & Communications 
reports to the CEO and BoD on climate and sustainability-
related issues. 

Research & Sustainability Division  
Established in 2020, the Research & Sustainability Division 
plays a crucial role in shaping Seplat’s climate strategy, goals 
and targets. Led by the GM Research & Sustainability, the 
department is responsible for the coordinating all sustainability-
related activities across the business, including climate change.

Sustainability Working Group 
In 2020, we established a 
cross-functional working group, 
with senior representation from 
all departments, to coordinate 
ESG and climate-related 
activities across the Group. 

65

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility | continued

Our ‘New Energy’ business forms the core 
of our efforts to deliver cleaner fuels for 
Nigeria and will be key to delivering our 
climate strategy. Under this new unit, we 
will explore opportunities to expand our 
gas business as well as opportunities to 
use renewable energy. We are already 
investigating ways to incorporate solar 
power at our own operations to minimise 
our emissions and supply local 
communities with electricity using 
renewable sources instead of gas. 

As recommended by the TCFD, we have 
begun climate-change scenario analysis 
to stress-test the resilience of our 
portfolio against a variety of low-carbon 
scenarios, including a well-below 2°C 
scenario. With the support of independent 
consultants, we are developing our 
approach to scenario analysis, which 
explores both how global hydrocarbon 
prices may alter under different transition 
pathways and what the impacts may be on 
the Nigerian energy market. More details 
of this scenario analysis are below.

We are protected to a degree from 
commodity price fluctuations given that  
a material proportion of our production, 
namely the gas business, is contracted at 
fixed prices. However, our analysis finds 
that we face relatively high risks of 
climate-induced changes to fiscal policy  
in Nigeria. Finally, we have analysed the 
implications of an energy transition on 
country risk in Nigeria, and the implied 
impacts on borrowing costs, and have 
found these impacts to be limited. 

Combining the effects of these three risk 
factors, we estimate that Seplat faces a 
reduction in portfolio-level NPV of 
approximately 13% under a low-carbon 
scenario.

In the coming year, we intend to integrate 
this analysis fully with our financial risk 
assessments to provide a solid foundation 
for strategic decision-making. This will 
provide the basis for the development of 
Seplat’s long-term strategy and help 
ensure that the Company remains resilient 
and creates value for shareholders 
through the energy transition.

RISK 
MANAGEMENT

Seplat has a robust process for identifying, 
assessing and managing risks to our 
business through our enterprise risk 
management (ERM) system. While in 
previous years we have not identified climate 
change as a key risk, we recognise the 
potentially material impact that climate 
change and the energy transition could have 
on our business, especially given growing 
global attention on the issue. Consequently, 
we are in the process of developing our 
understanding of our exposure to climate-
related risks and opportunities. As part of 
this process, we are looking to integrate 
climate change into our ERM system and our 
Corporate Risk Register. This will help us 
assess the potential impact of the various 
climate-related risks and opportunities and 
develop coherent mitigation and adaptation 
strategies in response.

There are two main categories of climate-
related risks that we are exposed to: 
transition risks and physical risks.

Transition risks
We have identified several categories of risk 
resulting from the transition to a lower-
carbon economy. These include regulatory 
and policy, technology, market, reputational 
and financial risks.

• Regulatory and policy risks include 

impacts resulting from the increased cost 
of GHG emissions (such as through any 
regulatory emissions pricing, taxing or 
emissions trading schemes), enhanced 
emissions-reporting obligations and 
international efforts to limit fossil fuel use. 
While these risks are unlikely to be material 
for Seplat in the short term, intensifying 
action on climate change by governments 
could result in increased operating costs in 
the medium term. We intend to mitigate this 
risk by working to reduce our emissions, 
ensure accurate emissions accounting,  
and monitor the international and Nigerian 
regulatory environment.

• Technology risks include the adoption of 

new or improved lower-carbon alternatives 
to Seplat’s current products by our 
competitors. This could result in reduced 
demand for our products in the short to 
medium term. We aim to mitigate this risk 
by integrating climate-related risks into our 
business strategy and by improving the 
efficiency and reducing the carbon 
intensity of our operations.

STRATEGY

While climate change poses a significant 
challenge to our society and business, our 
primary aim is to provide Nigerians with 
access to clean, affordable and reliable 
energy. Currently the majority of electricity 
in Nigeria is generated using small scale 
off-grid diesel generation. This is GHG 
intensive, expensive, noisy and uses vital 
foreign currency as the diesel is imported. 
Affordable on-grid electricity generation 
will be the catalyst for infrastructure 
development, education, healthcare, food 
security and general employment of a 
young fast growing population. 

We believe that gas will provide the base 
load for a function grid which will have a 
twofold benefit of initially displacing diesel 
generated power as well as providing a 
means to develop and distribute on grid 
renewable energy. We have developed our 
climate strategy around this vision and 
have integrated climate-related risks and 
opportunities into our long-term 
commercial planning and corporate 
strategy to ensure resilience during the 
energy transition.

Scenario analysis

This year, for the first time, Seplat 
conducted a deep-dive scenario exercise 
to assess the commercial implications  
of a global transition to a lower-carbon 
economy. We intend to update this 
analysis annually and use it to inform our 
corporate strategy and overall risk and 
opportunities assessment.

Industry best practice around climate 
change-related scenario analysis 
continues to evolve and there is no 
one-size-fits-all approach. At Seplat, we 
use the IEA’s Stated Policies Scenario 
(STEPS) as our base case and the IEA’s 
Sustainable Development Scenario (SDS) 
to simulate a well-below 2°C outcome 
against which we can test the resilience of 
our portfolio. Finally, we test for the 
impacts of additional climate-related 
value drivers, including fiscal and country 
risk. Our analysis shows that our business 
is resilient to a low-carbon energy 
transition, and all of our assets remain 
NPV positive in a low-carbon scenario. 
However, we face material risks to 
profitability and valuation should the 
transition occur rapidly and we will 
continue to monitor this closely.

66

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020• Market risks include changes in demand 
for our product due to changing customer 
behaviour as a result of the increased 
stigmatisation of fossil fuels and 
preferences for lower-carbon alternatives. 
This is a short- to medium-term risk that 
could have a negative impact on our 
revenues. We have undertaken scenario 
analysis to enhance our understanding of 
this risk and intend to adapt our strategy 
based on the findings.

• Reputational risks could arise from 

increased stakeholder concern or negative 
stakeholder feedback, such as divestment 
campaigns or criticism from local 
communities over Seplat’s environmental 
impact. These risks are considered to be 
medium term and could both impact our 
licence to operate and limit our access to 
capital. The development and 
implementation of robust climate and 
sustainability-related governance 
structures will help us to mitigate this risk.

• Financial risks could result from the 
decisions of financial institutions and 
investors to withdraw from financing the oil 
and gas sector as a result of external 
pressure, stigmatisation of fossil fuels or 
Seplat’s strategy. This is a medium- to 
long-term risk. We hope to mitigate this risk 
through integrating climate change into our 
long-term business strategy and 
investigating opportunities to diversify into 
renewables.

Physical risks
In addition, we recognise that Nigeria is 
extremely vulnerable to physical climate 
risks – including temperature increases, 
variable rainfall, sea level rise, drought and 
desertification, land degradation and more 
frequent and extreme weather events – and 
the stress these risks could put on both our 
operations and the resilience of the local 
communities around our assets. We intend 
to undertake a risk assessment of our 
assets’ resilience to physical risks and adapt 
them accordingly, while also working to help 
local communities respond to and mitigate 
the physical impacts of climate change.

METRICS & TARGETS

Seplat supports the Paris Agreement with its aim to limit global temperature rise to 
below 2°C. In line with our aim to be a leader on climate change in the Nigerian oil and 
gas industry, we are constantly working to monitor and reduce our GHG emissions. 

As the majority of our emissions currently come from gas flaring, our primary goal in 
relation to emissions reduction is to eliminate gas flaring by 2023. We have been 
investing in infrastructure and technology to help us achieve this goal, for instance 
we are installing compressors at our Sapele operations to help us move towards 
zero-flaring. 

While we do not envisage setting an emissions reduction target for our scope 1  
and 2 emissions in the short term due to the ongoing work to develop a historic 
understanding of our emissions profile, we are investigating other opportunities  
to reduce our emissions. 

Carbon footprint calculator

In 2020, we partnered with an independent 
consultant to develop a comprehensive 
GHG emissions calculator to build an 
accurate measurement of our emissions. 

The calculator was developed in 
accordance with the American Petroleum 
Institute (API) compendium of greenhouse 
gas emissions methodologies for the oil 
and natural gas industry (2009). The API 
compendium provides comprehensive 
guidance on accounting and reporting 
GHG emissions in the oil and gas industry. 

Factors such as global warming potentials 
(GWP) and liquid fuels properties are taken 
from the Intergovernmental Panel on 
Climate Change (IPCC) fifth assessment 
report.

The calculator will be important in 
developing a comprehensive 
understanding of our contribution to 
emissions in Nigeria, and as a basis for 
identifying opportunities for emissions 
reduction. We will disclose our emissions 
in future annual reports.

TCFD NEXT STEPS

Governance

Strategy

Risk management

2022

•  Establish an early-warning 

system to monitor stakeholder, 
investor or policy actions 

•  Adopt an internal carbon price

•  Develop mitigation and 

adaptation strategies for  
the physical risks identified

2021
•  Further enhance Board-level 

expertise on climate and 
sustainability issues

•  Informed by the results 
of the scenario analysis, 
incorporate climate-related 
risks and opportunities into 
broader company strategy and 
investment decision-making

•  Investigate opportunities to 

engage external stakeholders  
on Seplat’s climate strategy

•  Conduct an in-depth physical 
risk assessment of Seplat’s 
exposure to climate change-
related risks 

•  Update scenario analysis, 

enhanced by the development of 
a bespoke gas demand scenario 
for Nigeria

Metrics & targets

•  Investigate opportunities to 

•  Set emissions reduction targets 

invest in carbon offsets

for scope 1 and 2 emissions

•  Initiate data collection on further 

Scope 3 emissions categories

•  Become a signatory of the 

Methane Guiding Principles

67

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility | continued

COMMUNITIES

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown 
Independent Non-Executive Director

Seplat aspires to be a good corporate citizen, 
committed to driving positive socio-economic 
benefits for our country and our host communities, 
and recognising that we must continuously earn 
our social licence to operate. Indeed, we embed 
this commitment in one of the five strategic  
pillars that guide our approach to business:  
Behave responsibly and share our success. 

We endeavour to align our activities with the 
United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development 
Goals (SDGs). Our community relationships 
are governed by a Global Memorandum of 
Understanding, which is a guideline 
document that sets out goals, intentions, 
and responsibilities agreed after 
consultation with the host oil and gas 
producing communities themselves. 

Through proactive collaboration and  
needs analysis, we identify and address 
opportunities for development and concerns 
for mitigation. Regular dialogue with our host 
communities has helped broaden our social 
investment programmes from health, 
education, and infrastructure improvement 
to nurturing local entrepreneurship. 

There is a growing imperative to address 
the challenges of climate change and this 
imperative may force a shift away from 
fossil fuels long before Nigeria’s reserves 
are depleted. Therefore, we must help our 
communities prepare for a time when our 
industry may no longer be operating in 
their midst. Helping them diversify their 
economies is a priority that will ensure 
robust, resilient communities long after 
reserves have been extracted or 
renewables have overtaken fossil fuels. 
Aside from this long-term commitment, 
we recognise the need to help our  
host communities with more 
immediate concerns. 

As you will read in this report, we helped 
provide medical and other assistance that 
helped our communities cope with the 
Covid-19 pandemic. As this pandemic 
continues, and long beyond, we will never 
waver from our commitment to provide 
whatever help we can to drive positive 
change in our host communities. We look 
forward to working with them to deliver 
real impact where it is most needed.

Seplat’s approach to community relations
Seplat develops relationships of trust with 
its local communities by recognising the 
need to engage and listen, understand their 
needs and concerns, proactively inform 
them of our intentions and involve them in 
collaborations they find empowering. In 
doing so, we aim to assure peaceful and 
mutually beneficial relationships that 
support our prosperity, which in turn  
allows us to help theirs. 

We operate fairly and transparently, 
engaging in open dialogue, managing 
expectations, and conducting ourselves  
with the utmost respect for their cultural  
and ethnic traditions, while helping them 
understand our operations’ social, 
environmental, and economic potential.  
To clearly understand and respond 
appropriately, we collaborate with the 
communities, analyse local needs and then 
design and implement sustainable 
development projects accordingly. Our social 
investment aligns with the United Nations’ 
SDGs, and our development projects are 
designed to promote the socio-economic 
development for the benefit of 
the population. 

68

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020We operate fairly and transparently, engaging  
in open dialogue, managing expectations, and 
conducting ourselves with the utmost respect  
for their cultural and ethnic traditions, while  
helping them understand our operations’ social, 
environmental, and economic potential.

Resolution of problems
We recognise that sometimes, things do not 
go as planned. Accidents happen, 
commitments may be overlooked, and 
misunderstandings can cause problems for 
both Seplat and our host communities.

Our grievance management mechanism 
equips us to listen to concerns and identify 
relevant problems or grievances at the local 
level, monitor and handle complaints and 
then prepare adequate responses or 
communicate appropriate actions to 
alleviate any issues of concern.

Besides, our conflict management 
guidelines ensure that any conflicts, 
disagreements, misunderstandings and 
disputes between any community or their 
representatives and Seplat or its agents or 
contractors will be resolved peacefully and 
amicably through dialogue and in line with 
the grievance mechanism and conflict 
resolution processes. 

Grievance management mechanism

Specific activities

1.

Potential operation disruption 
dispute averted

2. Mediation/ arbitration efforts 

requiring support of 
traditional rulers, regulatory 
agencies and government 
Training on grievance 
management/ conflict 
resolution

3.

4. Environmental scanning/ 
heads off & detected early 
warning signs of conflicts
5. Peaceful community awards
6. Major issue raised during 

grievance 

In addition to the direct grievance 
management and conflict resolution efforts 
by our Community Relations team, we use 
reliable, unbiased third-party or 
independent mediators and arbitrators to 
bring resolution. Depending on the 
appropriacy, we use but are not limited to  
the following: local community leaders,  
key influencers, and key state government 
offices (e.g. state Ministry of Justice and  
the Ministry of Oil and Gas). Working with 
traditional rulers is particularly helpful in 
matters regarding intra-community 
disputes, while state governments may 
provide support in the resolution of 
boundary disputes and multiple land 
ownership claims.

Western Assets
10

Specific achievements
Eastern Assets
11

49

1

20

1*

27

1

N/A

1

i. 
ii. 

iii. 

 More employment opportunity
 Employment of community 
person into managerial position
 More contract awards to 
community vendors**

i. 

 More labour slots  
during projects

*   Under the terms of the GMOU, communities that ensured peaceful/disruption free operations during the year receive 
incentive in the form of peaceful community awards. All the host oil and gas bearing and facility hosting communities 
qualified for the awards in 2019 in the Western Assets. Awards are presented retroactively in the following year

** Quality employment opportunities and award of more contracts to qualifying community vendors

69

The Global Memorandum of Understanding
Seplat’s community relations are 
implemented through formal stakeholder 
engagement procedures governed by our 
Global Memorandum of Understanding 
(GMoU) signed with each of our host 
communities. 

The principles embodied in this GMoU are also 
applied when dealing with communities that 
are impacted by our operations, but which do 
not host them – for example, communities 
through which our pipelines pass or to whose 
land we need essential access.

By working within the frameworks of the 
GMoU and our stakeholder engagement 
procedures, we can sustain good 
relationships with local communities before 
the commencement of our projects, 
throughout our operations to the 
decommissioning phase. We strive to leave 
the area as we found it and hope to say 
goodbye to a community that has benefited 
from our presence. 

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility | continued

Capacity development and  
local economic empowerment
We recognise the need to help create 
long-term value and drive prosperity in the 
communities where we operate in Nigeria. 
Our social and economic initiatives aim to 
boost inclusive and sustainable economic 
growth, the creation of small businesses 
and, as a result, improvements in local 
employment opportunities, in line with  
the UN’s SDG 8. 

To address the levels of poverty and 
unemployment among youth and women 
and reduce the prospect of militancy in the 
communities, we implement economic 
development programmes that help improve 
prosperity through skills training and the 
encouragement of community 
entrepreneurship.

This effort is complemented by direct 
employment from the community by Seplat, 
when appropriate, supported by the 
necessary training programmes for local 
people. These programmes are implemented 
with Seplat’s technical support and 
oversight and are monitored throughout all 
phases of the initiative. The beneficiaries are 
selected from a wide range of communities 
within our operating locations. Candidates 
can choose trades or courses that best fit 
their individual skills and interests at 
designated training centres. At the end of the 
training period, students are provided with 
the tools and equipment and a start-up 
grant to establish a small business. 

We organised structured training on 
Leadership Competence, Grievance 
Management and Conflict Resolution for 
Community Leaders and GMoU 
Administration for four Ohaji South 
communities (Avu, Awarra, Obitti and 
Umuapu) in February 2020 at Crystal Lake 
Resort, Oguta. A total of 16 participants from 
four communities were trained. This was to 
complete the training commenced in 2019 
where 40 participants from ten other 
communities were given the same training in 
November 2019 in Port Harcourt.

Our social and economic 
initiatives aim to boost 
inclusive and sustainable 
economic growth,  
the creation of small 
businesses and, as a 
result, improvements  
in local employment 
opportunities.

70

We focus on improving literacy, discouraging 
school dropout, and providing infrastructure 
that improves positive teaching outcomes.

Sustainable community development 
infrastructure and other initiatives
In addition to our direct business 
investments, and our contribution to local 
and national economies through the 
payment of taxes and levies to the various 
government tiers, we fund a significant 
amount of sustainable community 
development initiatives. These initiatives  
aim to create long-lasting benefits that 
contribute to improving human development 
indexes, thereby raising living standards in 
our host communities.

These social investment activities align  
with the UN’s SDGs. Working with the local 
communities’ approved leaders to create 
shared value for communities, Seplat 
channels investment to areas that align local 
priorities to its business objectives whilst 
addressing the people’s broader 
development objectives.

In 2020, and despite the Covid-19 pandemic, 
we continued these efforts, making 
significant investments in strategic 
community development projects and 
programmes in such core areas as 
community infrastructure, education,  
health and water schemes. 

Our social development approach aligns with 
the UN’s SDG 6 (access to clean water and 
sanitation), SDG 4 (quality education), SDG 3 
(good health and wellbeing) and SDG 2 (zero 
hunger), amongst others, SDG 8 (Decent 
Work and Economic Growth) and 
SDG 1 (No Poverty).

Education
Education is a priority for social and 
economic development and helping to 
improve local educational facilities and 
outcomes is one of our core priorities. 

We focus on improving literacy, discouraging 
school dropout, and providing infrastructure 
that improves positive teaching outcomes. 
Our efforts include scholarships, building 
and renovating classrooms and teachers’ 
offices, providing equipment, library 
facilities and teachers’ living quarters. Also, 
in 2020 we continued our annual Seplat 
Pearls Quiz and launched our new Seplat JV 
Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) 
initiative designed to improve teaching 
standards in our local communities. 

We implemented the National 
Undergraduate Scholarship, which assists 
needy students in completing their studies; 
120 undergraduates benefited in 2020.

Seplat trained 15 entrepreneurs through the 
Conversations for Change partnership, in 
which young people with great ideas are 
empowered to use these ideas to make a 
living. 

We published a Sustainability Report, which 
enabled Seplat to provide transparent 
reporting against ESG milestones showing 
value creation to stakeholders.

CSR achievements accounted for 95% of 
positive messages on Seplat across all 
media channels thus enhancing our Brand 
and Reputation.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Case study: 
SEPLAT  
TEACHERS  
EMPOWERMENT  
PROGRAMME  
(STEP) 

In November 2020 Seplat launched another 
initiative to improve the standard of 
education in our host states. The Seplat 
Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) 
is a well-rounded programme that provides 
six months’ in-person and online training 
designed to help teachers enhance their 
knowledge and skills, enabling them to be 
more effective and motivate their students 
to learn. 

The maiden STEP made its debut in Benin 
City, Edo State, in November with a five-day 
residential workshop that kicked off a 
three-month programme online. 
Participants were trained in specially 
designed teaching applications for Science, 
Technology, Engineering, Arts and 
Mathematics (STEAM).

Following the introductory workshop, the 
training continues online with teachers 
receiving customised training modules on 
efficient pedagogical methods for STEAM 
education, as well as leadership and 
self-improvement training using a Seplat 
customised application.

Seplat developed an Online Teachers 
Resource Centre that provides the teachers 
with access training on the best techniques 
and practices for implementing STEAM 
teaching methods, focusing on how best to 
implement these in the classroom for the 
benefit of students. 

The learning platform will provide teachers 
with resources to enhance their skills and 
teach STEAM subjects more effectively, 
motivating students through engaging 
discussions and demonstrations. Seplat is 
supporting the teachers with the provision of 
electronic devices and internet data for the 
period of training.

As a responsible corporate citizen, we are 
delighted to play a role in improving schools’ 
educational capabilities in our host states. 

A hundred teachers and 43 Chief Inspectors 
of Education, drawn from Edo and Delta 
States, benefit from this initial project. They 
were selected from an initial application of 
nearly 400 teachers from schools in Edo  
and Delta States. Of the 100 teachers to  
be trained, 75% are from public schools,  
while 25% are from private schools.

STEAM education is crucial in creating a 
robust educational foundation for students 
pursuing careers in Science, Technology, 
Engineering, Arts and Mathematics, all of 
which will help drive growth and prosperity 
in Nigeria. Highly skilled teachers are a 
critical success factor for delivering the 
quality education it requires.

The Seplat Teachers Empowerment 
Programme has reinforced our widely 
acclaimed track record for supporting 
education. Seplat is optimistic that the 
newly introduced STEP initiative will 
enhance and sustain the quality of 
education in Nigeria. 

As a responsible corporate citizen, we are 
delighted to play a role in improving schools’ 
educational capabilities in our host states. 
With the STEP programme, Seplat now has a 
full suite of programmes to address the 
entire educational value chain, with our 
initiatives covering the improvement of 
school infrastructure, enhancing students’ 
academic performance, and building 
teachers’ skills and competencies. 

Seplat’s firm belief is that education is the 
bedrock for national growth and prosperity; 
we invested significantly in various 
educational Corporate Social Responsibility 
(CSR) programmes. These programmes 
support Sustainable Development Goals, 
notably Goal 4, which aims to “ensure 
inclusive and equitable quality education 
and promote lifelong learning opportunities 
for all”.

71

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility | continued

 Case study: 
PEARLS QUIZ

Despite the challenges posed by the 
Covid-19 pandemic, Seplat held its annual 
Pearls Quiz competition amongst schools in 
Edo and Delta States where the Company 
operates. In November, following a mix of 
online and contact sessions for the 
preliminaries, the winner of the 2020 
competition emerged. The winning school, 
St. Michael Academy in Benin City, Edo State 
joyfully went home with the coveted prize 
comprising ₦7 million and other awards in 
November. The victorious team beat off 
intense competition from 574 other schools 
that entered the competition in June, 
whittling down through rounds that began 
online, which ended up with a final featuring 
the four best schools battling it out in front 
of a packed audience at the Imaguero 
College Hall in Benin City. Winning students 
Iyere Godiy, Ehizogie Jeffrey and Okanofua 
Eseose also walked away with prizes worth 
₦100,000 to support their education.

Students from McNell Secondary School, 
Sapele, Delta State, took the second prize of 
₦3 million for their school and ₦75,000 each, 
while the third prize of ₦1 million and ₦50,000 
in student grants was won by students from 
Gloryland Secondary School, Igarra, 
Edo State. 

72

This programme rekindles the spirit of academic 
excellence and healthy competition in our youths 
by motivating, encouraging and rewarding the 
scholarship spirit in them.

Launched in 2012, by Seplat and its JV 
partner, the Nigerian Petroleum 
Development Company (NPDC), the annual 
contest is part of our efforts to boost Delta 
and Edo States’ educational achievement, 
which host our operations. It aims to support 
the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4, to 
“ensure inclusive and equitable quality 
education and promote lifelong learning 
opportunities for all”. 

In its ninth year, the Pearls Quiz aims to 
foster a spirit of healthy competition in 
students by motivating, encouraging and 
rewarding the ethos of scholarship while 
providing them with the right platform to 
prepare for their examinations. Since its 
inception, the Quiz has impacted 45,140 
students through prizes won or just through 
competition enjoyed in a fun and 
learning spirit.

Likewise, many winning schools have 
benefited from prize-funded projects, 
including a new language laboratory, three 
roofing projects, five computer laboratories 
deployed in different schools and four brand 
new school buses. 

Promoting educational excellence is a 
crucial objective of our community-based 
programmes. Speaking at the awards 
ceremony, our CEO Roger Brown 
commented: “This programme rekindles the 
spirit of academic excellence and healthy 
competition in our youths by motivating, 
encouraging and rewarding the scholarship 
spirit in them as they inculcate the principles 
of teamwork and hard work.”

We hope that the Quiz has contributed to the 
fact that students in Delta and Edo States 
have maintained very high pass rates in 
external examinations such as the West 
Africa Examination Council (WAEC). 

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020SEPLAT’S COMMUNITY 
INITIATIVES IN 2020

Seplat joins Covid-19 relief effort
In March 2020, as the pandemic began to 
take hold, Seplat joined the Nigerian National 
Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and 32 oil 
and gas companies to contribute $30 million 
to help the Federal Government fight 
Covid-19 in Nigeria. The sector donation 
supported healthcare delivery facilities, 
including ventilators, personal protective 
equipment, test kits and ambulances to 
different states in the country.

In addition, Seplat joined an effort to fight 
the pandemic in Edo, Imo and Delta states. 
For Edo State, the donation was made in the 
form of medical supplies and equipment 
including motorised sprayers, backpack 
sprayers, eye goggles, hand sanitisers, nose 
masks, temperature guns, chemical gloves, 
and personal protective equipment. Similar 
donations and donations of additional 
equipment were made in Imo State. In Delta 
State, Seplat, First Hydrocarbon Nigeria 
(FHN) and ND Western also donated critical 
medical equipment and materials to the 
state in the quest to check the spread of 
Coronavirus, thus enhancing Government’s 
readiness to manage possible incidences 
of Covid-19.

The essential medical supplies donated 
by the independent oil and gas companies 
included high power suction machines, 
infusion pumps, syringe drivers, personal 
protective equipment (PPE), and nebulisers. 
Other vital medical materials that were 
delivered by Seplat, FHN and ND Western  
to the state government comprised 
temperature guns, hand sanitisers 
and examination gloves. 

The sector donation 
supported healthcare 
delivery facilities, 
including ventilators, 
personal protective 
equipment, test kits and 
ambulances to different 
states in the country.

 A.B.C. Orjiako, Non-Executive 
Chairman at the groundbreaking 
ceremony of a permanent 150-200 bed 
Emergency and Infectious Diseases 
Hospital at Imo State University 
Teaching Hospital (IMSUTH) Orlu, Imo 
State donated by the NNPC/Seplat JV.

 Seplat donates medical supplies 

and equipment to Edo State as  
Covid-19 intervention. 

Imo State Infectious Diseases Hospital
In June 2020, Seplat and its joint venture 
partner NNPC commenced constructing 
a permanent 150-200 bed Emergency 
and Infectious Diseases Hospital at Imo 
State University Teaching Hospital 
(IMSUTH) Orlu, Imo State.

The facility is one of the 12 hospitals 
that the NNPC intends to construct 
across the country’s six geo-political 
zones. The NNPC in collaboration with 
its partners embarked on this initiative 
to strengthen the country’s national 
healthcare delivery facilities in combating 
the ravaging Coronavirus (Covid-19) 
pandemic sustainably.

At the groundbreaking ceremony, 
Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, Chairman of Seplat, 
said the hospital represented Seplat’s 
philosophy of improving local 
communities’ wellbeing in Seplat’s  
areas of operation. 

73

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate social responsibility | continued

If the community is good to host your business, 
the people from the community should also be 
good to be part of the management.

Seplat partners Ugborhen  
community to promote security
In August 2020, we provided the Ugborhen 
Community, in Delta State, critical support 
leading to the community handing over three 
security vehicles to the Nigeria Police, Navy 
and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense 
Corps (NSCDC). 

Seplat also provided technical input on 
vehicle types to be procured and provided 
guidance on how to agree with the security 
agencies (the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian 
Police and the NSCDC). Though procured by 
the community, Seplat helped to inspect the 
vehicles and ensured they were fit for the 
intended purpose.

The vehicles were presented to the Navy 
commander for the Nigerian Navy logistics 
base, Sapele; the Police Area Commander 
and the Commander of the Nigerian Security 
and Civil Defence Corps in Sapele Local 
Government by the President of the 
community, Engineer Phillip Mebradu. 

Ugborhen is one of Seplat’s foremost oil and 
gas host or producing communities in Ovhor 
field in OML 38 & 41, a swampy terrain in 
Okpe Kingdom in the Western Niger Delta  
of Nigeria. The three Toyota Hilux vehicles’ 
presentation was made at the Ugborhen 
Community town hall, following a period of 
security in the area. 

Seplat responded to community concerns 
about the security situation, which had  
been raised in our regular liaison with  
local representatives. After assessing the 
problem and the community’s needs, we 
provided advice on how to address the 
situation, particularly the community’s 
location, where ease of access by both land 
and water makes it vulnerable to insecurity.

74

Strengthening relationships  
with Imo communities
Seplat’s ongoing commitment to community 
engagement was highlighted in August, 
when our Chairman Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, led a 
team of the Company’s representatives on  
a courtesy call to Governor Hope Uzodinma 
and leaders of host communities in Ohaji and 
others, at the Government House, Owerri.

The visit aimed at fostering better 
relationships among stakeholders to drive 
sustainable development in the State. At the 
meeting, Governor Uzodinma urged Seplat  
to take advantage of the current shared 
prosperity model of 3-R, representing the 
Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Recovery 
of key economic and political institutions in 
the State and its host communities. He 
stated that: “If the community is good to  
host your business, the people from the 
community should also be good to be part  
of the management. If you think they do not 
have the requisite qualifications, train them 
to your standard and use them.”

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020He pledged to work with Seplat to ensure 
that the ANOH Gas Project at Assa becomes 
a success story. Responding to the Governor, 
Dr. Orjiako agreed on the need for 
development plans and stressed the 
Company’s commitment to developing 
communities where its facilities are located. 

Seplat formed a Community Engagement 
Management Board (CEMB) in April 2020 
with 10 Ohaji – Egbema Communities to 
manage the Ohaji South (OHS) GMOU, which 
officially commenced in January 2020.  
The Government of Imo State led by the 
Commissioner for Environment swore in the 
members of CEMB from the communities.

 Seplat donates medical Items 

to Delta State Government to 
equip Delta State Covid-19 
Treatment Centre in Asaba.

Further Covid-19 assistance
In June, Seplat and its joint venture 
partners, the NNPC and its subsidiary,  
the Nigerian Petroleum Development 
Company (NPDC) Limited, made 
additional donations to state 
governments to fight against the 
Coronavirus pandemic.

For Edo State, the items donated were 
25 hospital beds and a transport 
ventilator, the same donations being 
made to Delta State. For Imo State, the 
items donated were 25 hospital beds, 
sanitary buckets, alcohol-based hand 
sanitisers, infrared thermometers, 
protective equipment and a transport 
ventilator, amongst other donations.

75

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OUR PEOPLE ARE 
OUR GREATEST 
ASSETS

The health, happiness and professional 
development of our employees is at the heart  
of our Human Resources and employment 
development policies.

EMPLOYEE 
WELFARE

Employees are our greatest assets, 
and we are committed to ensuring their 
safety and welfare.

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic 
in 2020, we continued to take proactive 
steps to offer a safe and reliable business 
environment for our employees by 
establishing a robust Covid-19 protocol.

Career development
To Support Seplat’s vision and mission 
statements, we ensure to attract and retain 
the right mix of skilled personnel and 
develop them into the highest calibre of 
professionals required to grow a world-class 
energy company. This includes our Graduate 
Trainee Programme, where recent graduates 
launch their careers.

In 2020, despite the Covid-19 pandemic 
and the resulting work from home strategy 
adopted to protect employees from exposure 
to the virus, the Company leveraged 
on ‘learning’ as a strategic tool for 
organisational transformation, growth 
and development.

We adopted deployment of learning 
intervention programmes via virtual 
mentored learning (VML) and other online 
training courses, to address identified 
competency gaps. Also, continuous 
coaching, mentoring and engagement of 
employees through online platforms to 
ensure that our employees have the internal 
support they need to develop professionally. 
We undertake rigorous skills and 
competency management, to ensure 
employees make the most of the career 
development opportunities that Seplat has 
to offer. The Leadership Development 
programme and other transformational 
activities that focused on capabilities and 
behaviours linked to value drivers of the 
business were delivered online.

76

Employee engagement
Seplat recognises that effective 
communication and consultation with 
employees is essential to ensuring an engaged 
workforce and a conducive work environment. 
Through consultation, engagement, fairness, 
and proactive intervention, the Seplat Joint 
Consultative Committee (JCC) plays an 
advisory role to management and has 
additional jurisdiction on matters of mutual 
concern relating to industrial relations in the 
workplace such as safety, work organisation, 
business tools and more.

Employee wellness initiatives such as the 
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), 
a confidential and voluntary workplace 
service, support employees to address work 
related or personal issues and improve job 
performance. It promotes the general 
wellbeing of the workforce thus ensuring 
they remain happy and fulfilled at work.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Welfare Initiatives
• Online Fitness Programme: To ensure 

employee wellbeing especially during the 
period of lockdown, self-isolating or 
physical distancing, the Online Fitness 
Daily class was launched, enabling 
employees to keep fit and reduce stress.

• Under the Seplat Medical Scheme, 

employees and registered dependants 
were provided free access to 24-hour 
comprehensive medical care through 
designated health management 
organisations.

• A robust Covid-19 protocol was 

established by Seplat where employees 
were provided access to medical 
treatment and test centres at 
designated facilities.

• In accordance with best practices, 

the mandatory remote working policy 
was issued to outline the Company’s 
minimum expectations from employees 
for any period of Mandatory Remote 
Working and to manage the spread of the 
Covid-19 virus thus ensuring employee 
safety during high-risk conditions. 

Other initiatives such as the Joint 
Consultative Committee which is a 
committee of management and staff 
representatives review issues of mutual 
concern. The Employee Assistance 
Programme also promotes employee 
wellbeing through counselling, wellness 
seminars, stress management and so 
much more.

HOW WE WORKED 
DURING THE YEAR

Employee wellness programmes
To ensure employee wellbeing especially 
during the period of lockdown, self-isolating 
or physical distancing, the Online Fitness 
Daily class was launched. In addition, 
regular interactive sessions with the 
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) 
consultant were held to provide information 
on prevailing developments as it relates 
to the Covid-19 pandemic and help build 
resilience. Employees and dependants 
also had access to the EAP consultant for 
private consultations.

Meetings and engagements
A couple of major activities were planned 
and executed during the year by employees 
working from home. A lot of planning 
meetings were held online during this period 
to achieve the success rate recorded. 
General departmental meetings were also 
held online to track progress of activities and 
foster engagement between colleagues 
while working from home. Activities such as 
exhibitions, the Company’s Annual General 
Meeting, Seplat Energy Summit etc were 
planned and executed successfully due to 
the hard work and resilience of staff working 
at home despite internet challenges.

COVID-19: SHOULD 
WE BE WORRIED?

Covid workshop/HSE meeting  
– September 2020
A special HSE edition was organised by the 
HSE team to discuss the Covid-19 pandemic 
from a health perspective. The Guest 
Speakers were Dr Adeyemi Johnson of 
First Cardiology Hospital and Dr Chikwe 
Ihekweazu, the Director General of the 
Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. The 
two-hour session comprised of two 
enlightening presentations by the guest 
speakers followed by a question and answer 
session. Staff were able to get answers to 
burning questions from qualified medical 
personnel. Scenarios and experience of 
some members of staff were also shared 
during the session. 

Seplat at 10 – online celebrations
The month of July, which marked ten years 
since the Company commenced operations, 
was well celebrated. A team of volunteers 
made up of staff from different departments 
worked arduously to bring a variety of 
activities to mark the anniversary. These 
exciting activities were well liked and 
enjoyed by all staff included the Anniversary 
Staff Quiz; Seplat Ideas Challenge; Seplat 
Got Talent; My Seplat Story; and Meet the 
Seplat Family. These activities ran through 
the week with live events which concluded 
with finals that produced winners. The 
activities ignited the Company with 
excitement and peaked with a fun-filled 
virtual party dubbed ‘A Toast to Seplat at  
10’ on Saturday, July 25, 2020. At the party, 
leaders commended staff members for the 
many milestones achieved by the Company 
and enjoined them to continue to put in 
their best.

The Operations Director, Mr. Effy Okon 
closed out the session thanking the guest 
speakers and encouraging all staff to stay 
safe. Everyone left the session with a lot of 
knowledge on how to manage during the 
pandemic and as well as reassurance.
members for the many milestones achieved 
by the Company and enjoined to continue to 
put in their best.

77

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144

Chairman’s overview 
Board of Directors 
Corporate governance report 
Board Committee reports 
Directors’ remuneration report 
Report of the Directors 
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities 
Audit Committee’s report  
Statement of Corporate Responsibility  

80
82
87
96
113
137
142
143
144

78

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020GOVERNANCE 
REPORT

79

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Chairman’s overview

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE: 
THE ROADMAP TO 
SUSTAINABILITY 

As we continue to experience 
major disruptions to the world 
as we once knew it, agility, 
adaptability, and innovation 
are critical factors to an 
organisation’s resilience and 
sustainability. The ability to 
keep all of these factors on a 
well-balanced scale, should be 
the focus of an effective board 
in an unprecedented time.”

Dear Shareholders
It gives me great delight to present to you 
the Corporate Governance report for the 
financial year ending 31 December 2020.

In the last one year, the entire world has 
been saddled with the major task of 
responding and adapting to the disruptions 
brought about by the Coronavirus (Covid-19) 
pandemic. The Covid-19 pandemic which 
inflicted the world with a wave of existential 
threat equally inflicted an unprecedented 
shock on the global economy. 

In response to this major disruptor, 
governments all over the world were forced to 
shut down economic activities. As a result of 
the suspension of economic activities across 
aviation, road and rail transportation, crude 
demand dropped drastically resulting in an 
all-time crude demand loss. The combination 
of demand loss and the oil price war pushed 
oil price off the cliff, left the entire world in 
turmoil with global economies shrinking and 
corporate entities struggling for survival.

I am happy to report, on behalf of the Board, 
that despite the existential threat posed by 
the health and economic circumstances in 
the financial year 2020, Seplat, as a company 
remained resilient and responded with 
agility to, ensure protection of employees, 
maintain financial prudence and operational 
efficiency, support the communities where 
we operate and contributed our fair share  
in support of both the Federal and State 
governments in the provision of palliatives 
to the most impacted communities. 

A.B.C. Orjiako  
Non-Executive Chairman

80

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020In furtherance of the Board succession 
planning, our former Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director (S.I.D) Mr. Michael 
Alexander and Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru 
(INED) both retired from the Board on 31st 
January 2021. I would like to seize this 
opportunity to thank both Independent 
Non-Executive Directors for their meritorious 
service to the Company and wish them all 
the best in their future endeavours. 

I would also like to thank the Board, the Senior 
Leadership Team, and most importantly, our 
employees for the commitment, passion 
they brought to work and for contributing 
immensely to the stability of the Company 
in such an unprecedented year. 

I would like to thank our shareholders for 
their support and for staying the course with 
us through the years. We are assured that 
together we would deliver the world class 
energy company of our dream. 

A.B.C. Orjiako  
Chairman

Seplat’s ability to effectively respond to 
the disruptions in the financial year under 
review, is underpinned by the effective 
governance framework already in place, the 
collaborative approach adopted by the Board 
and management in prioritising , addressing 
existential risk, proffering innovative short, 
medium, and long-term solutions for a 
sustainable business and environment 
which cannot be overemphasised. 

As a dual listed company, Seplat continues 
to be bound by several corporate governance 
laws and regulations both in Nigeria and 
in the United Kingdom. These laws and 
regulations include but are not limited to, 
the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020 
(‘CAMA’), the Financial Reporting Council 
of Nigeria (“FRCN”)’s Nigerian Code of 
Corporate Governance, 2018 (“NCCG”), the 
Securities & Exchange Commission (‘SEC’) 
Code of Corporate Governance for Public 
Companies in Nigeria (the ‘Nigerian Code’), 
the Nigerian Stock Exchange (‘NSE’) 
Rulebook, the United Kingdom (“U.K”) 
Corporate Governance Code, 2018 (the 
‘UK Code’), UK Listing Rules (‘LRs’) and the 
Market Abuse Regulations, 2016 (‘MAR’). 

These laws and regulations have played a 
pivotal role in the laying of a solid foundation 
for our Company’s governance framework 
and practice; culminating in the Company’s 
demonstrated resilience amidst the health 
and economic challenges occasioned by the 
Covid-19 pandemic. 

In the 2020 financial year, the Board,  
through its Corporate Governance, 
Compliance and Culture Board Committee, 
carried out extensive review and updates  
to its governance policies including but  
not limited to the Board Charter, Code of 
Business Conduct, Conflict of Interest policy 
and the Whistleblowing policy. The annual 
Board evaluation was externally facilitated to 
assess how the Directors, Board Committees 
are committed to their roles and work 
together effectively in the achievement  
of the Company’s objectives. 

As a forward looking Company, Seplat is 
mindful of the increasing focus, by climate 
change advocacy groups, investors, and 
regulators alike, on Environmental, Social 
and Governance (ESG) approach to 
sustainability of business and our world. In 
recognition of the changing narrative in the 
energy space, the Board and management 
kept at the fore of deliberations in the year 
under review, the urgent need to reduce 
carbon footprint, innovative ways to leverage 
gas as an energy transition, whilst keeping 
sight on the Company’s transformational 
strategy of portfolio diversification. Details 
of the Board’s activities for the financial year 
under review, are contained in the Corporate 
Governance Statement and Board 
Committee reports.

The year 2020 also witnessed the deliberate 
effort at refreshing the Board membership. 
To invigorate its capabilities, the Board 
welcomed three new members in the 
financial year under review – Mr. Emeka 
Onwuka as an Executive Director/Chief 
Financial Officer (CFO), Ms. Arunma Oteh, 
OON and Mr. Xavier Rolet, KBE as 
Independent Non-Executive Directors 
(INEDs). The Board is gratified by the relevant 
skills and fresh perspectives that these 
directors bring to the Board. The Company 
also witnessed the retirement of Mr. Austin 
Avuru as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 
and the resumption of Mr. Roger Brown as 
the new CEO. Mr. Avuru’s retirement as  
CEO is a testament to the success of the 
Company’s succession planning. I would like 
to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Austin 
Avuru for leading the development of a 
strong organisation, deployment of agile 
systems, processes and stakeholder 
relationships that allowed Seplat to grow 
rapidly both organically and inorganically  
to be a listed exploration and production 
company on both the Nigerian and London 
international stock markets and recognised 
as a major player in the Nigerian and wider 
African hydrocarbon industry. The Board 
of Seplat is grateful to Mr. Avuru for these 
accomplishments. To ensure that the 
Company retains valuable knowledge, 
skills, experience, and maintain continuity, 
Mr. Avuru continues on the Board as a 
Non-Executive Director. 

81

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Board of Directors

EXPERIENCED, PROACTIVE 
AND EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP

Board meetings and main subjects discussed in 20201

Non-Executive Chairman

25
  Corporate strategy  
27
  Finance 
7
  Structure and capital  
  Risk management and internal control   12
29
  Corporate governance and ESG

Board composition as at 1 March 2021

Chairman 
Executive Directors 
Non-Executive Directors 
Independent 
Non-Executive Directors 

Board skills and  experience 2020

1. Executive and strategic leadership

2. Governance and Board

3. Work health, safety, 
  environment and sustainability

4. Financial and risk management

5. Capital management

6. Oil & gas

7. Strategy

1
3
3

6

13

11

7

10

9

8

11

Dr. Ambrosie Byrant Chukwueloka (A.B.C.) Orjiako 
Non-Executive Chairman

Biography 
Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako is the Chairman and co-founder 
of Seplat since inception in 2009. He is a fellow 
of the West African College of Surgeons in 
Orthopaedics and Traumatology. Dr. Orjiako 
ventured into full-time business in 1996 after 
11 years of active medical practice and has 
developed extensive experience in the Nigerian 
oil and gas sector. 
Since the inception of Seplat, Dr. Orjiako has 
spearheaded new business development, 
providing leadership on strategy and 
stakeholder management. Seplat under his 
leadership, has become a highly reputable 
Nigerian Independent recording several 
milestones and firsts; successfully closing 
landmark acquisitions, growing exponentially 
under a strong and transparent corporate 
governance framework. 
He is also a founding member of the London 
Stock Exchange Group’s Africa Advisory Group 
(LAAG). He is a recipient of several awards for  
his service to humanity and entrepreneurial 
achievements, including a knighthood award 
from Pope John Paul II and Officer of the Order 
of the Niger (OFR) among others.
Experience  
Dr. Orjiako brings a wealth of leadership 
experience in the Nigerian oil and gas sector 
having established and managed several 
companies in the upstream, downstream and 
service sectors of the industry in Nigeria. These 
include: Abbeycourt Trading Company Ltd, 
Abbeycourt Energy Services Ltd, Zebbra Energy 
Ltd and Shebah Exploration and Production 
Company Ltd. He also has other business 
interests in construction, real estate 
development, pharmaceuticals and shipping.

1.  Senior executive experience including international experience exposed to a range of political, cultural, 

regulatory and business environment.

2.  Experience as a board member or member of a governance body.
3.  Experience related to health, safety, environmental, sustainability or social responsibility.
4.  Senior executive or equivalent experience in financial accounting and reporting, corporate finance,  

risk and internal controls.

5.  Experience in capital management strategies, including capital partnerships, debt financing and 

capital raisings.

6.  Experience in oil and gas industry with knowledge of markets, competitors, operational issues, 

technology and regulatory concerns.

7.  Track record of developing and implementing successful business strategies including assets or 

business portfolio.

Date of appointment  
• As Director on 14 December 2009  
• As Executive Chairman on 1 February 2010  
• As Non-Executive Chairman on 1 January 2014
Board meetings attended 
• 10/10
Committee membership 
• No longer applicable
Independent  
• Not applicable

82

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Executive Directors

Roger Thompson Brown
Chief Executive Officer; Executive Director

Emeka Onwuka
Chief Financial Officer; Executive Director

Effiong Okon
Operations Director; Executive Director

Biography 
Mr. Brown joined Seplat as Chief Financial 
Officer in 2013. With a background in finance,  
he is a qualified Chartered Accountant with the 
Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland 
and also a member of Association of National 
Accountants of Nigeria.
Mr. Brown has over 25 years’ experience in the 
financial sector, primarily focused on emerging 
markets with extensive experience in structuring 
energy and infrastructure transactions on the 
African continent. Prior to joining the Company, 
he held the position of Managing Director of Oil 
and Gas EMEA for Standard Bank Group. 
Following Mr. Avuru's retirement on 31st July 
2020, Mr. Brown was appointed CEO and 
assumed the role on 1st August 2020.
Experience  
Mr. Brown brings to Seplat extensive financial, 
accounting, M&A, debt and equity capital 
markets experience in the emerging markets 
space, and in particular the African oil and gas 
sector. He has advised on some of the largest 
and highest profile transactions that have 
occurred in Nigeria in recent years. 

Biography 
Mr. Emeka Onwuka brings over 30 years of 
experience in the financial services sector in the 
Sub-Saharan Africa region. He was the former 
Group Managing Director & CEO of Diamond 
Bank Plc and former Chairman Board of 
Directors, Enterprise Bank Limited. Mr. Onwuka 
was a Partner at Andersen Tax Nigeria until his 
appointment in Seplat. 
Mr. Onwuka received his B.Sc. in Political 
Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka 
and holds an MBA from the University of Benin. 
He is a Chartered Accountant, a Fellow of the 
Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria 
(FCA), a Fellow of Chartered Institute of Taxation 
of Nigeria (FCIT), a Fellow of the Institute of 
Directors Nigeria (FIoD). He has attended 
executive programmes at the Lagos Business 
School, Wharton Business School and Harvard 
Business School. 
He holds the Nigerian National Honour, Officer  
of the Order of the Niger (OON)
Experience  
Mr. Onwuka brings to Seplat his extensive board 
experience as non-executive Director at several 
companies in the financial sector in Nigeria and 
West Africa including Chairman of the Board of 
FMDQ Securities Exchange Limited, FMDQ 
Holdings Limited, Ecobank Nigeria Limited and 
Bharti Airtel Nigeria and formerly First Atlantic 
Bank Ghana. 
Mr. Onwuka began his professional career with 
Arthur Andersen Nigeria in 1988 as a Staff 
Assistant and left in 1992 as a Senior Consultant, 
providing accounting, audit, tax, business advisory 
and strategic services to companies in banking, oil 
and gas, manufacturing and general commerce. 
At Diamond Bank, he successfully manoeuvred 
the bank through the industry-wide consolidation 
and recapitalization challenges of 2004/2005 
through private placements, listing on the 
Nigerian Stock Exchange and the acquisition of 
Lion Bank Plc. He also expanded the bank into the 
West African sub region from Benin Republic to 
Senegal, Ivory Coast and Togo. He concluded a 
strategic partnership in 2007 with Actis and 
launched in 2008 a GDR offering on the London 
Stock Exchange (LSE).

Date of appointment  
•  As Chief Financial Officer and Executive 

Director on 22 July 2013 

•  As Chief Executive Officer; Executive Director 

on 1 August 2020

Board meetings attended 
• 10/10
Committee membership 
• Not applicable
Independent  
• Not applicable

Date of appointment  
• 1 August 2020
Board meetings attended 
• 3/3
Committee membership 
• Not applicable
Independent  
• Not applicable

Biography 
Engineer Effiong Okon (MNSE) joined Seplat in 
February 2018 as Operations Director and brings 
27 years’ experience in upstream and integrated 
oil and gas operations across Africa, Europe, 
USA, Middle East, and Nigeria. He is primarily  
a Petroleum Reservoir Engineer with extensive 
experience across all aspects of the Exploration 
& Production business including strategy, 
leadership, petroleum engineering, exploration, 
front end development studies, project 
execution, operational excellence in production 
and asset management. 
Prior to joining Seplat, in 2018 Engr. Okon was 
appointed Vice President Cost Leadership and 
Continuous Improvement for Royal Dutch Shell, 
most recently General Manager Deepwater 
Production for Shell Nigeria. Previous 
appointments at Shell also include General 
Manager Offshore Assets (Shallow Water and 
Deepwater), Deputy Vice President Technical/
Manager North Field Wells and Reservoir Business 
for the commissioning, start-up and early 
production phase of two mega projects for Qatar 
Shell (Pearl GTL and Qatar Gas LNG Trains 7 & 8).
Experience  
Engr. Okon brings extensive experience in Safety, 
Leadership, Strategy, Cost Leadership, Field 
Development, Project Delivery, Asset 
Management, Full Life Cycle Management of 
Complex Oil and Gas Assets (Upstream and 
Midstream), Onshore and Offshore, diverse 
geographies and cultures, successfully leading 
multi-disciplinary teams, leading change and 
innovation, talent identification and 
development, managing service providers and 
controlling material budgets. Engr. Okon is a 
member of several professional organisations, 
including the Society of Petroleum Engineers 
(SPE), Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), 
Council for the Regulation of Engineering in 
Nigeria (COREN), etc. Engr. Okon is Alumni of IMD 
Business School (Lausanne, Switzerland) and 
Harvard Business School (Boston 
Massachusetts, USA). 

Date of appointment  
• 23 February 2018
Board meetings attended 
• 10/10
Committee membership 
•  Risk Management and HSSE Committee 
Independent  
• Not applicable

83

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Non-Executive Directors

 Ojunekwu Augustine (‘Austin’) Avuru
Non-Executive Director

Madame Nathalie Delapalme
Non-Executive Director

Olivier de Langavant
Non-Executive Director

Biography 
Madame Delapalme is an Independent Director 
on the Board of Directors of Maurel et Prom,  
and since 30 June 2014, acts as an alternate  
to Maurel et Prom’s nominee, Michel Hochard 
until 18th July 2019, when she was appointed a 
Non-Executive Director on the Board of Seplat. 
Experience 
Madame Delapalme served the French 
Government as an Inspector General of Finances 
at the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and as 
the advisor for Africa and Development in the 
offices of various Foreign Affairs Ministers. She 
also served as an advisor for the Finance and 
Budgetary Commission in the French Senate. 
Currently Executive Director of the Mo Ibrahim 
Foundation, she remains deeply involved in 
governance and development in Africa.

Biography 
Mr. Avuru is a co-founder of Seplat and became 
the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on 1 May 2010 
until he retired as CEO on 31 July 2020. 
A geologist by background, Mr. Avuru spent 
12 years at the Nigerian National Petroleum 
Corporation, where he held various positions 
including Well Site Geologist, Production 
Seismologist and Reservoir Engineer. In 1992,  
he joined Allied Energy Resources in Nigeria, a 
pioneer deep water operator, where he served as 
Exploration Manager and Technical Manager. In 
2002, Mr. Avuru established Platform Petroleum 
Ltd and held the role of Managing Director until 
2010, when he left to take up the CEO position 
at Seplat.
Experience  
Mr. Avuru has over 40 years’ experience (1980 
– 2020), working in the Nigerian Oil and Gas 
Sector in increasingly senior technical and 
management roles. He has spent the last 
15 years in CEO roles at Platform Petroleum and 
Seplat Petroleum, and has built up a strong 
reputation as a reference resource professional 
on the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry play.

Biography 
Mr. Olivier Cleret de Langavant has been CEO  
of Maurel & Prom since 1 November 2019.  
Before that position, he did most of his career 
with the Total Group which he joined in 1981.  
He started as a Reservoir Engineer, holding 
positions in France, Congo, the United States 
and Colombia, before being appointed Senior 
Vice President, Operations in the Netherlands. 
Mr. De Langavant was then Deputy Managing 
Director of Total E&P Angola from 1998 to 2002 
during which time he was heavily involved in the 
early development phase of the deepwater 
Girassol field. Following this post, he was 
appointed Managing Director of Total E&P 
Myanmar. In 2005, Mr. de Langavant returned to 
Angola as Managing Director of Total E&P 
Angola, a position he held until 2009. Upon 
leaving Angola in 2009, Mr. de Langavant was 
appointed Senior Vice President, Finance, 
Economics & Information Systems of Total’s 
Exploration Production (E&P) branch. 
In March 2011, Mr. de Langavant took up the 
position as Senior Vice President E&P Strategy, 
Business Development and R&D which he held 
until February 2015. Starting March 2015, Mr. de 
Langavant was appointed Senior Vice President 
Asia Pacific. Mr. de Langavant became a 
member of the Total Group Management 
Committee (thereafter Performance Group 
Committee) in January 2012. Mr. de Langavant 
holds an engineering degree from the National 
School of Mines of Paris (1978). 

Date of appointment  
• 1 May 2010
Board meetings attended 
• 10/10
Committee membership 
•  Risk Management and HSSE Committee
Independent  
• Not applicable

Date of appointment  
• 18 July 2019
Board meetings attended 
•  10/10 
Committee membership 
•  CRS Committee 
•  Corporate Governance, Compliance 

and Culture Committee

Independent  
• Not applicable

Date of appointment  
• 28 January 2020
Board meetings attended 
•  10/10
Committee membership 
• Audit Committee
Independent  
• Not applicable

84

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Independent Non-Executive Directors

Basil Omiyi
Senior Independent Non-Executive Director

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown
Independent Non-Executive Director

Charles Okeahalam
Independent Non-Executive Director

Biography 
Mr. Omiyi’s career spans 40 years at Royal Dutch 
Shell, during which time he occupied a number 
of senior roles in Nigeria and Europe, including 
Managing Director of Shell Petroleum 
Development Company of Nigeria Limited and 
Country Chairman of Shell Companies, Nigeria. 
Mr. Omiyi also holds board positions in a range  
of other companies including as Chairman of a 
Banking and Financial Services company as well 
as Chairman of a Real Estate Company. In 2011, 
he was awarded the National Honour of 
Commander of the Order of the Niger by the 
President of Nigeria for pioneering Nigerian 
leadership in the oil and gas sector. 
Experience  
Mr. Omiyi has extensive insight into and 
experience in the global oil and gas industry  
and in particular brings a detailed knowledge 
and understanding of the Nigerian oil and  
gas sector together with senior management 
expertise gained in a large-scale 
multinational organisation. 

Biography 
Lord Malloch-Brown is a former Deputy 
Secretary General of the United Nations as well 
as a previous Administrator of United Nations 
Development Programme. He has also served in 
the British Cabinet and Foreign Office. He is 
active both in business and in the non-profit 
world. He also remains deeply involved in 
international affairs. Lord Malloch-Brown  
is a former Chair of the Royal Africa Society.
Experience  
Lord Malloch-Brown brings a great deal of 
knowledge and experience on international and 
external affairs, and particularly the promotion 
of business and commerce in African 
economies, including Nigeria, within a global 
context. He also brings extensive experience  
on corporate responsibility and governance 
systems to the Board. 

Biography 
Dr. Okeahalam is a co-founder and Chairman of 
AGH Group, a private equity and diversified 
investment holding company with assets in 
several African countries. Prior to co-founding 
AGH Group in 2002, he was a professor of 
finance and banking at the University of the 
Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. His other roles 
have included advising a number of African 
central banks and government ministries, the 
World Bank and the United Nations. He has held 
board positions in several companies including 
ABSA, South African Airways, Sun International 
and is a former non-executive chairman of 
Heritage Bank Limited, Nigeria and non-
executive chairman of the Nigeria Mortgage 
Refinance Company. He is the chairman of the 
board of directors of AMREF Health Africa. 
Experience  
Dr. Okeahalam brings extensive corporate 
finance, banking and capital markets expertise 
and experience to the Board.

Date of appointment  
• 1 March 2013
Board meetings attended 
• 10/10
Committee membership 
•  Gas Committee (Chairman)
•   Risk Management and HSSE Committee 

(Chairman)

•   Nomination and Establishment Committee 
•  Remuneration Committee 
Independent  
• Yes

Date of appointment  
• 1 February 2014
Board meetings attended 
• 9/10
Committee membership 
•  CSR Committee (Chairman) 
•   Finance Committee 
•   Nomination and Establishment Committee 
Independent  
• Yes

Date of appointment  
• 1 March 2013
Board meetings attended 
• 10/10
Committee membership 
• Finance Committee (Chairman) 
• Gas Committee 
• Remuneration Committee 
Independent  
• Yes

85

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Independent Non-Executive Directors

Damian Dinshiya Dodo, SAN
Independent Non-Executive Director

Arunma Oteh, OON 
Independent Non-Executive Director

Xavier Rolet, KBE
Independent Non-Executive Director

Biography 
A renowned lawyer, Mr. Dodo, SAN has acted 
and continues to act for a wide range of major 
Nigerian corporations, governmental and 
regulatory bodies across a number of business 
sectors and has served on a number of panels 
and commissions in Nigeria, including the NNPC 
Commission of Inquiry, the Governing Board of 
the National Agency for the Prohibition of 
Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and National 
Lottery Regulatory Commission where he all 
served as Chairman. 
In 2001, Mr. Dodo, SAN was awarded Nigeria’s 
highest legal practice rank of Senior Advocate  
of Nigeria (SAN). In 2011, he was awarded the 
National Honour of Officer of the Order of the 
Federal Republic of Nigeria by the President of 
Nigeria. He was also awarded a fellowship by the 
Nigerian Institute for Advanced Legal Studies.  
In 2017, Mr. Dodo, SAN was appointed a Fellow  
of the Nigerian Chartered Institute of Arbitrators;  
a Member of the Taraba State Judicial Service 
Commission; and a life Bencher. He is also an 
alumnus of the Said Business School of the 
University of Oxford, an alumnus of the IMD 
Business School, Lausanne, Switzerland; an 
associate of the Chartered Institute of 
Arbitrators in London; a Member of the Institute 
of Directors; a member of the Nigerian Institute 
of International Affairs; and a member of the 
National Judicial Council (NJC).
Experience  
Mr. Dodo, SAN brings an extensive legal 
expertise and knowledge base to the Board 
together with a firm understanding of relevant 
regulatory regimes and corporate governance. 

Biography 
Ms. Oteh is a seasoned C-suite executive with 
several years of experience operating at the 
highest levels at major global institutions and in 
Government. She has been an academic scholar 
at the University of Oxford since January 2019 
and a member of the London Stock Exchange 
Africa Advisory Group since January 2020. 
Ms. Oteh served as Treasurer and Vice President 
of the World Bank from 2015 to 2018. She was 
the Director General, Securities and Exchange 
Commission (SEC) Nigeria from 2010 to 2015. 
Previous to SEC Nigeria, she worked in a variety 
of roles notably as Group Vice President, 
Corporate Services and Group Treasurer, African 
Development Bank. Her career started in 1985  
at Centre Point Investments Limited, a Nigerian 
investment bank. 
She obtained a first-class honours degree in 
Computer Science, from University of Nigeria 
Nsukka in 1984 and a Master’s degree in 
Business Administration, from Harvard 
Business School in 1990. She has received 
several recognitions, notably, the Officer of the 
Order of the Niger (OON) National Honour for  
her contribution to the economic development 
and role in transforming the Nigerian capital 
markets. She was among New African’s 
“100 Most Influential Africans” in 2015, and Ai 
2018 Global Institutional Investment Personality 
of the Year. In 2020, she was named amongst the 
top 100 people in the UK of African heritage, by 
Power list and Africa’s top 50 women by Forbes.
Experience 
Ms. Oteh brings to the Board over 34 years  
of global experience, spanning securities 
regulation, the capital markets and business. 
She also has extensive experience in corporate 
governance, the public sector and sustainability. 
Ms. Oteh has also served on several Boards, 
notably, the International Organization of 
Securities Commissions (2010 to 2015) which 
regulates 95% of the world’s securities markets.

Date of appointment  
• 30 June 2014
Board meetings attended 
• 8/10
Committee membership 
•  Nomination and Establishment Committee 

(Chairman) 

•  Audit Committee 
•  Corporate Governance, Compliance & Culture 

Committee 

•  Remuneration Committee 
•  CSR Committee 
Independent  
• Yes

86

Date of appointment  
• 1 October 2020
Board meetings attended 
• 3/3
Committee membership 
•  Finance Committee
•  Nomination and Establishment Committee
•  Gas Committee
Independent  
• Yes

Biography 
Mr. Xavier R. Rolet, KBE is an experienced CEO, 
Co-Founder, and Entrepreneur. He was named 
one of the 100 Best CEOs in the World in the 2017 
Harvard Business Review, Mr. Rolet has 
demonstrated a history of successful 
turnarounds in the global financial services 
industry. In his decade at the helm of the London 
Stock Exchange, the LSE’s market valuation  
rose from £800 million to more than £15 billion, 
transforming it into one of the world’s largest 
exchanges by market capitalization. He is 
currently the Chairman, Board of Directors at 
Phosagro PJSC, a member of the Board of 
Directors of the Saudi Stock Exchange Tadawul 
as an appointee of the Public Investment Fund, 
Senior Advisor, TowerBrook Capital Partners 
LLC, Chairman of the Board, Shore Capital 
Markets, INED, Golden Falcon Special Purpose 
Acquisition Company and an Expert Adviser to 
the Shanghai Institute of Finance for the 
Real  Economy. 
He has held various senior positions in the 
financial services industry throughout his 
career: CEO of CQS, a global hedge fund; CEO of 
Banque Lehman Brothers in Paris; co-head of 
Global Equity & Derivatives Trading at Lehman 
Brothers New York; Global Head of Risk and 
Trading at Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein; 
Vice-President, International Equity Risk 
Arbitrage at Goldman Sachs New York; and 
co-Head of European Equities Sales and Trading 
at Goldman Sachs International Ltd in London. 
Mr. Rolet received his post-graduate degree in 
Defense Studies and Economic Intelligence from 
Institut des Hautes études de défense Nationale 
(“IHEDN”), an MBA in International Finance from 
Columbia Business School, and an MSc in 
Management from Kedge Business School. 
Mr. Rolet is an Honorary Knight. 
Commander of the Order of the British Empire 
(KBE), a Knight of the National Order of the Legion 
of Honour of France, an Officer of the Royal 
Sharifian Order of Al-Alawi, and a Member of the 
Order of Friendship of the Russian Federation. 
Experience 
Mr. Rolet brings to the Board an extensive expertise 
in the fields of regulation, capital markets, 
Technology and Environmental Conservation 
and business governance. His knowledge and 
wisdom are great additions to the Board.

Date of appointment  
• 1 October 2020
Board meetings attended 
• 3/3
Committee membership 
•  Remuneration Committee
•  Risk Management and HSSE Committee
•  CSR Committee

Independent  
• Yes

Picture credit: Roger Askew/ Shutterstock

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate governance report

The Board of Directors of Seplat Petroleum 
Development Company Plc. (the ‘Board’) continues 
to strive towards ensuring that management acts 
in the best interest of the shareholders and other 
stakeholders of the Company while sustaining the 
prosperity of the Company. To this end, the Board 
exercised its oversight and control function in relation  
to the Company in the financial year under review.  
The Board equally provided entrepreneurial, strategic  
as well as ethical culture leadership for the Company  
to ensure that the affairs of the Company were 
conducted in a responsible manner becoming of  
a good corporate citizen. 

The Board, as the highest governing body in Seplat, is aware and alive 
to its overall responsibility for – corporate governance, setting the 
Company’s short, medium, and long-term strategies, providing 
oversight in the achievement of the Company’s objectives, and 
supporting management in their day to day running of the Company’s 
business. The Board has the appropriate mix of knowledge, skills, 
and experience, including business, commercial and industry 
expertise; which they brought to bear in the discharge of their duties 
in the financial year under review. The Board equally has  
the appropriate mix of Executive, Non-Executive, and Independent 
Non-Executive Directors. The majority of the Seplat Board are 
Non-Executive Directors, most of whom are Independent 
Non-Executive Directors. 

As a Company with dual listing under both the Nigerian and the 
London Stock Exchanges, Seplat is subject to a number of listing  
and governance provisions. Some of the key provisions that apply to 
Seplat for the year ended 31 December, 2020, are the Companies and 
Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020, the Nigerian Securities Exchange 
Commissions’ Rules and Regulations on Code of Corporate 
Governance for Public Companies (2011) as amended (‘SEC Code’), 
the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance 2018 (NCCG), UK Listing 
Rules (LRs), the Market Abuse Regulations, 2016 (MAR), the UK 
Corporate Governance Code as updated and published by the 
Financial Reporting Council (FRC) in July 2018 (UK Code). 

In line with the requirements of these Laws, rules and regulations,  
the Board of Seplat strives to ensure that the Company meets high 
standards of environmental, social and governance performance  
in order to sustain and improve on shareholders’ value. The Board 
regards corporate governance as a critical factor in the achievement 
of the Company’s objectives and has therefore put in place and 
adopted appropriate charters, policies, and processes for the day  
to day running of the Company.

Board processes
Scope and authority
In line with relevant codes of corporate governance and regulations, 
the Board is responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable 
laws, rules, and regulations. In discharging this responsibility, the 
Board is supported by the Company Secretariat and the Compliance 
Unit headed by the Company Secretary/General Counsel (“CS/GC”). 
In addition, the Board is also supported by key members of the 
Senior Leadership Team and management as are required from time 
to time. To aid the Directors’ effective participation and making of 
informed decisions at Board and committee meetings, all Board and 
Board Committee papers are distributed to each Director in advance 
of their meetings using the Board pad software that is designed for 
that purpose. Formal minutes of Board and all Committee meetings 
are taken by the Company Secretariat team and are reviewed, 
discussed by the Board prior to approval and adoption at the 
subsequent Board meeting. The Company Secretary also advises 
and gives guidance to the Board in the discharge of its obligations  

as stipulated in the applicable Nigerian and UK laws, codes, rules, 
and regulations. Members of the Board are aware of their right to 
obtain independent professional advice at the Company’s expense, 
where required. 

The roles and responsibilities of the Chairman and the CEO are 
clearly separated and are outlined under their respective 
appointment letters. This role separation is monitored by the Senior 
Independent Non-Executive Director (SID) and is periodically 
assessed during Board evaluations.

The Board has adopted a comprehensive Board Charter that sets out 
the matters that are exclusively reserved for its approval. The matters 
that require exclusive approval of the Board are also captured in the 
Authority Matrix of the Company to ensure strict compliance by the 
Senior Leadership Team and management. The Board deliberated  
on the following matters for the financial year under review:

• Appointment of Non-Executive Director 

• Review of the Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial 
Statements (Unaudited) for the fourth quarter ended  
31 December 2019

• Group Tax Strategy

• Production Performance

• Financial Performance

• Update of Capital Projects

• Legal Risk Analysis

• 2019 Full Year Audited Financial Result 

• 2020 Budget Reforecast and effects of oil price slump

• Bond Refinancing 2020

• 5 Year Corporate Plan

• Consideration and adoption of Annual General Meeting (AGM) 

Process Documents 

• Consideration and Adoption of the Re-election of retiring Directors 

at the AGM

• Re-Election of the Chairman of the Board

• Update on Chief Financial Officer (CFO)’s succession plan

• Update on Board Refreshment

• Nomination of Board representatives to the Statutory 

Audit Committee

• Board Approval of the selection of new CFO

• Update on Covid-19 and Seplat’s participation in containment 

support efforts through donation of palliatives

• Update on 2020 Annual General Meeting 

• Approval of Q1 2020 Financial Result

• Gas Update

• Risk Management Report 

• Update on Board Evaluation

• Review of Half-Year (1H2020) Result

• Review of Company’s approach to ESG

• Changes to Seplat’s Corporate Representatives on AGPC Board

• Appointment of Two (2) Independent Non-Executive Directors 

• Update on ANOH Project

• Presentation on new Organisational Structure

• Review of Q3 2020 Financial Result

• Review of 2021 Budget & Work Programme

• Appointment of New MD and additional Directors for AGPC

• Review of Directors’ Conflict of Interest and Recusal proposal. 

87

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To facilitate an efficient and effective discharge of its 
responsibilities, the Board has established seven Board Committees 
and has delegated specific aspects of its responsibilities to these 
Committees. These Board Committees are:

1. 

 The  Finance  Committee  (established  in  line  with  the  UK  Code’s 
requirement for an Audit Committee).

2.  The Remuneration Committee.

3.  The Nomination and Establishment Committee.

4.  The Risk Management and HSSE Committee.

5.  The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee.

6.  The Gas Committee.

7.  The Corporate Governance, Compliance & Culture Committee. 

In addition to these Board Committees, the Company has 
established a statutory Audit Committee at its 30 June 2014 Annual 
General Meeting (AGM). The establishment of the Audit Committee is 
in line with Sections 404(2) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 
(CAMA) as amended. In line with the provisions of Section 404 (3) of 
CAMA, the Audit Committee, currently consists of three shareholder 
representatives and three Non-Executive Directors who are elected 
at every AGM to sit on the Audit Committee. 

All eight Committees (including the Audit Committee) have their 
respective terms of reference that guide their members in the 
discharge of their assigned duties, and these Terms of Reference  
are available for review by the public. All the Committees present  
a report to the Board, highlighting matters deliberated upon as well  
as each Committee’s proposals/recommendations on matters within 
the remit of their respective Terms of Reference. The details of these 
eight Committees are contained in the individual Committee reports 
in this governance section.

Board review and evaluation
In line with the NCCG and the UK Code, which prescribes the 
establishment of a formal and rigorous annual evaluation of the 
performance of the Board, its committees, the Chairman, individual 
Directors and that the process should be externally facilitated by  
an independent external consultant at least once in three (3) years, 
the Board in the year under review, engaged the services of an 
independent external consultant, Messrs. DCSL Corporate Services 
Limited (DCSL) to carry out an evaluation of the Board for the 
financial year 2019. The independent consultant also carried out  
an assessment of the corporate governance practices within 
the Company.

In carrying out the evaluation, the following seven key corporate 
governance areas were considered: 

1.  Board Structure and Composition; 

2.  Strategy and Planning; 

3.  Board Operations and Effectiveness; 

4.  Measuring and Monitoring of Performance; 

5.  Risk Management and Compliance; 

6.  Corporate Citizenship; and 

7.  Transparency and Disclosure. 

88

Board meetings
One of the principal ways in which the Board performs its oversight 
function and monitoring of the Company’s performance is through 
Board meetings. In accordance with regulatory requirements, the 
Board meets at least once every quarter. However, additional 
meetings are scheduled as matters which require the attention  
of the Board prior to the convening of next quarterly Board 
meeting arise. 

The Board held ten meetings during the 2020 financial year.  
The dates of the meetings and attendance of each Director at the 
meetings are as stated below. During the year under review, the 
Non-Executive Directors held exclusive meetings, without the 
Executive Directors. In addition, the Chairman, and the Senior 
Independent Non-Executive Director each held different meetings 
with the Non-Executive Directors, with the absence of the Executive 
Directors. In compliance with the Nigerian Code and the UK Code,  
it is the policy and practice of Seplat that no Director is involved in 
any deliberation pertaining to his/her remuneration. 

Dates of 2020 Board meetings are as follows:

1.  28 January 2020.

2.  3 March 2020.

3.  19 March 2020.

4.  28 April 2020.

5.  28 May 2020.

6.  6 July 2020.

7.  28 July 2020.

8.  8 October 2020.

9.  27 October 2020.

10. 24 December 2020.

S/N Name

Designation

No. of 
meetings  
in the year

No. of times  
in attendance

1.

A.B.C. Orjiako 

Chairman

2. Roger Brown

Chief Executive Officer

3. Emeka Onwuka2

Chief Financial Officer

4. Effiong Okon

Operations Director

5. Austin Avuru

Non-Executive Director

6. Olivier Langavant

Non-Executive Director

7. Nathalie Delapalme Non-Executive  

Director

8. Michael Alexander1 Senior Independent 

Non-Executive Director

9. Charles Okeahalam Independent Non-
Executive Director

10. Basil Omiyi

Independent Non-
Executive Director

11.

Ifueko  
M. Omoigui Okauru1

Independent Non-
Executive Director

12. Lord Mark 

Malloch-Brown

Independent Non-
Executive Director

13. Damian Dodo, SAN Independent Non-
Executive Director

14.  Arunma Oteh, OON2 Independent Non-
Executive Director

15. Xavier Rolet,  

KBE2

Independent Non-
Executive Director

10

10

3

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

3

3

10

10

3

10

10

10

10

10

10

10

9

9

8

3

3

1.  Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru and Michael Alexander voluntarily retired from the Board 

effective 31 January 2021.

2.  The Board appointed Emeka Onwuka as Chief Financial Officer/Executive Director 
effective 1 August 2020; Arunma Oteh, OON and Xavier Rolet, KBE as Independent 
Non-Executive Directors effective 1 October 2020.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Appointment of the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
On 1 August 2020, Mr. Roger Brown assumed the role of the CEO of 
the Company. Mr. Brown brings to the CEO role, a deep knowledge of 
the Company in his six (6) years as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) 
and a member of the Board. Mr. Brown has strong financial, 
commercial and Mergers and Acquisition (M&A) experience as well 
as proven people skills which is an asset as the Company embarks on 
the next phase of its growth plan. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. 
Brown was an advisor to the Company since 2010 while he was the 
Managing Director and head of EMEA Oil and Gas at Standard Bank 
Group. During his time at the bank, he was instrumental in providing 
advice and deploying capital across the African continent in the  
Oil & Gas, Power & Infrastructure, and the renewable energy sectors. 

Appointment of new Chief Financial Officer 
The Board is pleased to formally introduce Mr. Emeka Onwuka as  
the new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the Company. Emeka Onwuka 
joined as CFO and Board member on 1 August 2020. Mr. Onwuka has 
more than 30 years’ experience in financial services within Sub-
Saharan Africa. He has served as Group Managing Director/CEO of 
Diamond Bank Plc and is a former Chairman of Enterprise Bank 
Limited. Mr. Onwuka was a Partner at Andersen Tax Nigeria and 
holds various Board positions at companies including FMDQ 
Securities Exchange Limited, FMDQ Holdings Limited, Ecobank 
Nigeria Limited and Bharti Airtel Nigeria.

Appointment of two Independent Non-Executive Director (INEDs) 
The Board is equally pleased to formally introduce Ms. Arunma Oteh, 
OON and Mr. Xavier R. Rolet KBE as newly appointed Independent 
Non-Executive Directors of the Company, with effect from  
1 October, 2020. 

Ms. Arunma Oteh, OON is a seasoned C-suite executive with several 
years of experience operating at the highest levels at major 
multilateral agencies, global financial institutions and in 
Government. She has been an academic scholar at University of 
Oxford since January 2019 and a member of the London Stock 
Exchange Africa Advisory Group since January 2020. 

Board policies and insurance cover
In addition to the Board Charter earlier discussed, the Board has in 
place a Code of Business Conduct policy and other corporate 
governance policies covering anti-bribery and corruption, anti-fraud 
policy, related party transactions, conflicts of interest, share dealing, 
whistleblowing, community relations, risk management, electronic 
information, and communication systems etc, details of which are 
discussed later in this governance section.

The Board has also adopted the Market Abuse Regulations (MAR) 
which replaced the Model Code for Directors’ dealings. The MAR 
governs the disclosure and control of inside information and the 
reporting of transactions by persons discharging managerial 
responsibilities (PDMRs). 

The Board is responsible for taking appropriate steps to ensure 
observance of the Article provisions of MAR by the Directors. The 
Company is therefore committed to observing the MAR provisions  
as part of its commitment to good corporate governance practices.

The Company has arranged appropriate insurance cover for legal 
action against its Directors. This insurance cover losses and actions 
arising from matters involving a Director’s failure to act in good faith 
and in the Company’s best interest, failure to exercise his/her powers 
for a proper purpose, failure to use his/her skill reasonably, failure to 
comply with the law, etc. The Company regularly reviews this 
insurance coverage to ensure adequate protection of its Directors.

Appointment, development and evaluation of Directors
The Board has adopted a Board Succession Policy to guide the 
appointment of its Directors in accordance with corporate laws, 
corporate governance codes, regulations, and international best 
practice. The Board Succession Policy which requires the 
Nomination and Establishment Committee (NOMCO) to submit to the 
Board on a yearly basis a succession plan identifying key and critical 
positions, definitive designation of successors for such positions, 
articulation of specific development plans for identified successor 
which is tied to the Company’s overall performance management 
and career communication. NOMCO has overall responsibility for the 
Board appointment, induction, training, and evaluation processes,  
as well as changes to the Company Secretary and other senior 
management staff, all of which are subject to approval by the Board. 

The fundamental principles of the appointment process include 
evaluation of the balance of skills, knowledge and experience on the 
Board, leadership needs of the Company and ability of the candidate 
to fulfil his/her duties and obligations as a Director. New Directors 
are required to attend an induction programme on the Company’s 
business, their legal duties, and responsibilities as well as other 
information that would assist them in effectively discharging 
their duties. 

The Company believes in and provides continuous training and 
development opportunities for its Directors to equip them with 
required skills to effective discharge their duties. 

Retirement of the Founding Chief Executive Officer (CEO) 
On 31 July 2020, the Company’s founding CEO, Mr. Austin Avuru 
voluntarily retired after putting in ten years of meritorious  
service to the Company. Within ten years, Mr. Avuru led the 
development of a strong organisation, the deployment of agile 
systems, processes and stakeholder relationships that allowed the 
Company to grow rapidly into a leading independent oil and natural 
gas producer in Nigeria. The Board is immensely grateful to Mr. Avuru 
for the accomplishments during his tenure as CEO and will continue 
to count on his repertoire of knowledge and experience as a 
Non-Executive Director.

89

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Ms. Oteh served as Treasurer and Vice President of the World Bank 
from 2015 to 2018. As Treasurer, she led a global team that managed 
the World Bank’s $200 billion debt portfolio as well as an asset 
portfolio of $200 billion for the World Bank Group and several public 
sector clients including 65 Central Banks. She was the Director 
General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria 
from 2010 to 2015. As Director General of Nigeria’s apex capital 
market regulator, she was responsible for the regulation of Nigeria's 
capital markets, including the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and led the 
rebuilding of the capital markets after the global financial crisis. She 
also served on Nigeria’s Economic Management team, chaired by the 
Nigerian President. Prior to the SEC Nigeria, she worked at the Africa 
Development Bank for 17 years in a variety of roles including Group 
Vice President, Corporate Services (2006 to 2009) and Group 
Treasurer (2001 to 2006). 

While Mr. Xavier Rolet, KBE, is an experienced CEO, Co-Founder, and 
Entrepreneur. Named as one of Harvard Business Review’s 100 Best 
CEOs in the World in 2017, Mr. Rolet has demonstrated a history of 
successful turnarounds in the global financial services industry.  
In his decade at the helm of the London Stock Exchange, the LSE’s 
market valuation rose from £800 million to more than £15 billion, 
transforming it into one of the world’s largest exchanges by 
market capitalisation. 

He is currently the Chairman, Board of Directors at Phosagro PJSC,  
a member of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Stock Exchange 
Tadawul as an appointee of the Public Investment Fund, and an 
Expert Adviser to the Shanghai Institute of Finance for the Real 
Economy. He has held various senior positions in the financial 
services industry throughout his career: CEO of CQS, a global hedge 
fund; CEO of Banque Lehman Brothers in Paris; Co-Head of Global 
Equity & Derivatives Trading at Lehman Brothers New York; Global 
Head of Risk and Trading at Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein; 
Vice-President, International Equity Risk Arbitrage at Goldman 
Sachs New York; and Co-Head of European Equities Sales and 
Trading at Goldman Sachs International Ltd in London.

The Seplat Board is indeed privileged to have Arunma and Xavier on 
board and look forward to their contributions towards the continued 
success of the Board and Company. 

Retirement of two Independent Non-Executive Directors 
The Board during the financial under review, announced the 
retirement of Mr. Michael Alexander, Senior Independent Non-
Executive Director (SID), and Mrs. Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru, 
Independent Non-Executive Director (INED), effective 31 January 
2021. Mr. Alexander was appointed to the Board in June 2013 while 
Mrs. Okauru was appointed in March 2013. In the past seven (7) 
years, Mr. Alexander and Mrs. Okauru served the Board 
meritoriously, deploying their multi-facetted experiences towards 
the growth of the Company. Seplat remains grateful for their 
immense contributions to the Board and the Company and wish 
them the very best in all of their future endeavours.

Following the retirement of Mr. Alexander as SID, the Board has 
appointed Mr. Basil Omiyi, Independent Non-Executive Director 
(INED) as the new Senior Independent Non-Executive Director 
effective 1 February 2021. Mr. Omiyi’s career spans 40 years’ 
experience at Royal Dutch Shell, during which time he occupied a 
number of senior roles in Nigeria and Europe, including Managing 
Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited 
and Country Chairman of Shell Companies, Nigeria. Mr. Omiyi has 
extensive insight into and experience in the global oil and gas 
industry and in particular brings a detailed knowledge and 
understanding of the Nigerian oil and gas sector together with  
senior management expertise gained in a large-scale 
multinational organisation. 

The appointment and removal or reappointment of Directors is 
governed by its Articles of Association and the Companies and  
Allied Matters Act, 2020. It also sets out the powers of Directors.

Accountability
Details of the Directors’ responsibility for preparing the Company’s 
financial statements and accounts, and a statement that they 
consider the financial statements and accounts, taken as a whole, to 
be fair, balanced, and understandable and to contain the information 
necessary for shareholders to assess the Company’s position and 
performance, business model and strategy, are given on page 142 of 
this report. Seplat’s business model and strategy for delivering the 
objectives of the Company and the assumptions underlying the 
Directors’ assessment of the business as a going concern are given 
on pages 16 and 19 of this report, respectively.

The Board, during the financial under review, carried out an 
assessment of the Company’s risk management and internal 
controls systems, including financial, operational and compliance 
controls, and reviewed their effectiveness, details of which are given 
on pages 24-36 of this report.

In compliance with CAMA and the NCCG, the Company has 
established a statutory Audit Committee (mentioned earlier), and in 
compliance with the UK Code’s requirement for an Audit Committee, 
the Board has established a Finance Committee comprising four 
Independent Non-Executive Directors. Details of the Finance and 
Audit Committees’ membership and activities are given in their 
respective reports, on pages 98 and 112. The Board has also 
established the Risk Management and HSSE Committee, which is 
responsible for reviewing on behalf of the Board, operational risk, 
health and safety, and environment matters. Details of the 
Committee’s membership and activities are given in its report  
on page 106.

Corporate governance
In line with the recommended practices under the Nigerian Code of 
Corporate Governance, the Board established a Board Committee  
on Corporate Governance, Compliance & Culture (CG, C& C 
Committee). The CG, C & C Committee, which comprises only 
Independent Non-Executive Directors, is saddled with the 
responsibility of assisting the Board in promoting, modelling, 
institutionalising, and maintaining sound ethical culture and good 
corporate citizenship. The Committee, which was chaired by Mrs. 
Ifueko Omoigui Okauru for the financial year under review, advises 
the Board on modalities of strengthening the Company’s corporate 
governance, compliance, and cultural ethos, to achieve the 
Company’s continued survival and prosperity. Details of the 
Committee’s membership and activities are given in page 110. 

Remuneration
In compliance with the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance and 
UK Code, the Board has established a Remuneration Committee 
solely comprising Independent Non-Executive Directors and was 
chaired by Mr. Michael Alexander (SID) for the financial year under 
review. Details of the Committee’s membership and activities are 
given in its report on page 96. Details of how Seplat’s remuneration 
policy links remuneration to the achievement of the Company’s 
strategy and the level of remuneration paid to each of the Directors 
during the financial year are outlined on pages 130 and 131.

Seplat stated at the time of the IPO that remuneration for certain 
Non-Executive Directors may include performance-related elements 
and certain Executive Directors’ service contracts may include an 
initial fixed term of more than one year. In compliance with both the 
Nigerian Code and the UK Code, no Executive Director is a member  
of the Remuneration Committee and no Director is involved in any 
deliberation of his/her remuneration. The Company’s remuneration 
policy and practices are outlined on page 120 of this report.

90

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Engaging with our stakeholders
The Board recognises the need to nurture successful relationships 
with our stakeholders to secure the Company’s long-term goals. 
Through regular engagement, the Board is able to understand the 
views of all stakeholders and considers them in their decision-
making process.

Protection of shareholder rights
The Board ensures that the statutory and general rights of 
shareholders are always protected. It further ensures that all 
shareholders are treated equally. On 25 March 2014, the Company 
entered into a Relationship Agreement with its founding 
shareholders (who are represented on the Board) to regulate their 
degree of control over the Company so that the rights of minority 
shareholders and the independence of the Board are protected.  
All other shareholders are given equal access to information and  
no shareholder is given preferential treatment. 

Communication with shareholders
Seplat values effective communication with its shareholders.  
As a matter of practice and based on regulatory requirements, 
the Company reports formally to shareholders four times a year 
with the announcement of quarterly and full-year results as well 
as providing disclosure on material changes to the business as and 
when required. However, with the new SEC requirement for Public 
companies to elect whether to file its fourth Quarter report, the 
Company has elected the option of filing its Annual Audited Financial 
Statement within the regulatory stipulated period. The full-year 
Annual Report and Accounts are issued to shareholders and are 
posted on the Company’s website. Results presentations are also 
made available on the Company’s website together with replays 
of webcasts. 

Seplat’s seventh (7th) AGM was held on 28 May 2020 in Lagos, 
Nigeria, in line with the NCDC guidelines and CAC approval for 
holding the AGM by proxy only and was attended by four shareholders 
in person while 288 shareholders were represented by proxies 
(holding 510,329,595 units of shares). The business transacted at the 
meeting was based on CAMA requirements and as such, diverged in 
some respects from that common to UK companies. The Company’s 
AGM affords shareholders present the opportunity to discuss 
matters regarding the Company’s business with the Chairman, 
the Committee Chairmen, and individual Directors. The AGM also 
provides the opportunity for the shareholder representatives to be 
elected to sit on the Audit Committee, as required by CAMA.

The notice of the 2021 AGM has been sent to Shareholders with this 
Annual Report and Accounts and it is intended that the best practice 
for AGMs as detailed in the Nigerian Code and the UK Code will 
be followed.

The Board maintains a dialogue with investors outside the AGM to 
foster mutual understanding of objectives and to gain a balanced 
view of key issues and concerns of shareholders. The primary 
contact is through the Executive Directors. 

The Non-Executive Directors, the Chairman and the SID, are available 
to attend meetings if requested specifically by shareholders.

Engagement with existing and potential shareholders regarding 
business strategy and performance is coordinated by the Investor 
Relations function. The Head of Investor Relations reports directly  
to the Chief Financial Officer. Matters regarding the general 
administration of shareholdings are coordinated by the 
Company Secretary.

The Company conducts an active investor relations programme with 
institutional investors and analysts. This includes participation at 
conferences, both within and outside Nigeria, where a few one-on-
one meetings and group presentations are made, including investor 
roadshows in key financial centres. In 2020, the Company held over 
247 meetings with institutional investors and expanded  
its analyst coverage. 

Regular analysis of Seplat’s shareholder register and major 
movements, together with market feedback, trading analysis and 
peer performance, are communicated to the Board via the Chief 
Financial Officer and the Head of Investor Relations.

The Board welcomes enquiries from shareholders, encourages 
attendance at the Company’s AGM and participation in its results 
presentations and webcasts. The Board further encourages 
shareholders to subscribe to receiving news alerts via the 
subscription service on the Company’s website.

Host community engagement; donation of Covid-19 palliatives
Sustainable community development remains a priority and we have 
continued to work collaboratively with our local partners to foster 
positive social and economic development. Executive Directors met 
with leaders of the host communities, visited community events and 
projects in areas of operations. Additionally, Directors met with 
ministers, state governors in the states where the Company operates 
as well as other key government officials during the financial year 
under review.

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic emergency and the Nigerian 
National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)’s call for contributions from 
the petroleum industry to support the Nigerian Government both at 
the federal and state levels, the Company made donations in support 
of the federal and state level palliative initiatives. 

In addition to the above, the Company, supplied medical 
consumables and in-patient support systems to the three (3) states 
where the Company carries out its operations (i.e., Edo, Delta & Imo 
States respectively). This gesture was made to support the states’ 
medical infrastructure for the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Employee engagement 
The Company has over the years established a Joint Consultative 
Council (JCC) which comprises of Senior Management and 
representatives of Seplat employees drawn from across the various 
business units of the Company. The JCC, which is headed by the 
General Manager Human Resources, meets at least once every 
quarter to update employee representatives on key management 
decisions regarding the Company and to address issues which are  
of concern to employees. Deliberations, suggestions, and 
recommendations made during such meetings are cascaded to the 
entire employees and where required, recommendations which 
require approval are cascaded to the Senior Leadership Team 
headed by the CEO and to the Board, where necessary. 

The Company also facilitated four town hall interactive sessions, 
where the CEO updated all employees of happenings and 
developments within the organisation.

In line with the UK Corporate Governance Code relating to employee 
engagement, the Board, nominated one the Independent Non-
Executive Directors (INEDs), Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, as the 
employee engagement representative of the Board, to work with  
the General Manager Human Resources to engage with employees, 
obtain their views and report its findings to the Board. 

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Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate governance report  | continued

Disclosure of information
As a company listed on both the Premium Board of the NSE and on 
the Main market of the LSE, Seplat strives to comply with the highest 
standards of disclosure. As a matter of practice, the Company 
simultaneously releases announcements through the relevant 
regulatory channels in both Nigeria and the UK. It also ensures that 
all announcements are available on the Company’s website together 
with copies of its latest results, financial reports, and other relevant 
information. The Company has put in place relevant controls and 
processes for the management of inside information. The Executive 
Directors are ultimately responsible for the approval of Company 
announcements and ensuring that such documents comply with 
relevant legal and regulatory requirements.

Corporate governance framework, sustainability, response to 
Covid-19 and compliance initiatives
The Board places high premium on corporate governance as a 
veritable tool for compliance risk management, ensuring the 
Company’s sustainability, achievement of the Company’s 
strategic objectives and enhancement of shareholders’ value. 
Consequently, the Board in fulfilment of its primary responsibility 
has put in place a corporate governance framework with a ‘tone from 
the top’ approach to governance compliance. The Board regularly 
subjects itself to evaluations to determine level of corporate 
governance compliance and takes remedial action to resolve any 
areas of potential or perceived non-compliance. 

The Covid-19 pandemic which led to lockdown at the tail end of first 
quarter of 2020, Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries 
(OPEC)’s restrictions on production, increasing stakeholder 
expectations regarding Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) 
and intensifying pressure from capital markets for the industry to 
generate higher total returns to shareholders brought to focus 
discussions regarding sustainability of the Company, including the 
need for reduction in carbon footprint and re-evaluation of the 
Company’s overall strategy development. Consequently, the Board 
organised a two (2) day Board and Management Strategy session, 
where the Board and Management engaged in debate and analysis  
of the market outlook for global oil & gas and its implication for the 
Company in the short, medium, and long term. The Board and 
Management also considered issues such as – viability of gas as 
transition fuel (particularly the gas to power opportunity) and key 
messages on global renewables outlook. Further to the Board/
Management Strategy session, the Board also had a session on 
strengthening the Company’s approach to ESG reporting with focus 
on how ESG trends are evolving, its impact on shareholders’  
value and how an integrated ESG strategy would benefit the 
Company’s business. 

To safeguard the health and safety of employees, the Board 
implemented various strategies to combat the Covid-19 pandemic 
such as the adoption of 28-day field rotations with frequent health 
checks, remote working for non-field location staff in the Lagos, 
Abuja, and London offices. The Company also set up a Covid-19 
monitoring group (COVIMOG) to review areas of risks and exposure.  
A Business Continuity Plan was also put in place and implemented  
to mitigate identified risks due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Some of 
the measures put in place included: 

• restriction of all travels to business-critical needs only and with 

approval of CEO;

• mandatory 14-days’ self-quarantine of all Seplat personnel 
returning from oversea trips and the completion of a Risk 
Assessment Form to be evaluated by the Company’s Medical 
Consultant;

• personnel are re-admitted back to work location only on 

satisfactory assessment of information indicated in the Risk 
Assessment Form, mandatory temperature screening and 
hand-sanitising at all entry points into our facilities.

• suspension of participation in any crowded event like training, 

workshops, seminars, and meetings whether internal or  
external; and 

• COVIMOG team led by the Corporate HSE Manager monitored 

developments locally and internationally in management of the 
virus spread and advised SEPLAT leadership on actions to address 
its threat to our personnel and operations.

As part of our continuous corporate governance awareness 
campaign in 2020, the Company administered the annual corporate 
governance online recertification programme for all employees 
including contract staff. 

The Board also paid close attention to ethical issues by formally 
launching the updated Code of Business Conduct, where select 
members of the Board engaged with the entire workforce at the 
workshop on the importance of compliance with the Code of 
Business Conduct, after which all employees individually signed 
personal commitment to abide by the tenants of the Code of 
Business Conduct. In the course of the same event, the Company 
held a round table discussion on the need for employees to speak up 
against unethical behaviour, which was facilitated by the Business 
Integrity Unit. 

To buttress the importance for employees to speak up, the Company 
held a Company-wide workshop on whistleblowing. The workshop, 
which was equally facilitated by our Business Integrity unit in 
conjunction with KPMG, was designed to further sensitise and to 
encourage employees to report concerns openly without fear of  
any form of victimisation and/or reprisals. Employees were also 
reminded that they may elect to make a report anonymously by 
making use of the Seplat/KPMG Ethics Line which includes 
dedicated whistleblowing hotlines – 0800 444 1234 (Toll Free) or 
KPMG’s MTN toll free number: 0703-000-0026. Employees could 
also report their concerns by sending email to  
speakup@seplatpetroleum.com or kpmgethicsline@ng.kpmg.com. 
The facilitators also demonstrated to employees that all reported 
cases in times past were treated with utmost confidentiality.  
To further encourage anonymity, the Company recently introduced 
the Vault App, which grant employees real-time access to the Senior 
Leadership Team, particularly the CEO, to air their views make 
valuable suggestions and come up with innovative ideas that would 
move the Company forward. 

The Company also held a Bullying and Harassment awareness 
session to underscore the importance of maintaining a friendly 
workplace environment for all employees. The Board in addition, 
reviewed reported incident of conflict of interest, set up a review 
panel to consider the conflict and mitigations to ensure that the 
Company’s overall interests are well protected. 

To foster an effective day to day implementation of our well-
established corporate governance framework, a dedicated 
Governance Compliance team has been put in place in the Company. 
The Company collaborates with the Company’s regulators (NSE, SEC, 
FRCN, CAC, LSE and FCA) as at when necessary to ensure the 
Company maintains its robust corporate governance framework and 
an effective compliance programme. The Company frequently 
attends engagement sessions with its regulators. 

The Board, during the year, had engagements with its industry 
regulators to discuss and explain the steps the Company has and is 
taking to ensure compliance with the relevant provisions of 
applicable laws, codes, regulations and sectorial guidelines. 

As of the date of this Annual Report and Accounts, the Board has 
adopted the following corporate governance policies and practices; 
most of which can be found on the Corporate Governance page in  
the Investor Relations section of the Seplat’s website:  
https://seplatpetroleum.com/investor-centre/corporate-
governance/corporate-governance-policies/ 

92

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020In the financial year under review, the Board, through its Corporate 
Governance, Compliance and Culture Board Committee, carried out 
second level review of the Company’s Corporate Governance Policies 
and recommended updates to bring the respective policies and 
procedures to date with new laws, listing rules as well as the Nigerian 
Code of Corporate Governance, 2018 and the UK Code of Corporate 
Governance, 2018. The recommended updates were approved, and 
the reviewed policies were adopted by the Board. The already 
adopted as well as reviewed corporate governance policies/
practices are: 

1)  Board Charter.

2)  Code of Business Conduct Policy. 

3)  Code of Business Conduct.

4)  Board Succession Policy.

5)  Board Representation Policy for IJVs & Other Arrangements.

6)  Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy.

7)  Anti-Fraud Policy.

8)  Gifts and Hospitality Policy.

9)  Bullying & Harassment Policy. 

10) Community Relations Policy.

11)  Investors Complaint Management Policy.

12) Conflicts of Interest for Policy Directors & Employees.

13) Corporate Communications Policy. 

14) Electronic Information & Communication Systems Policy.

15) Inside Information Policy.

16)  Political and Charitable Contributions Policy.

17) Related Party Transactions Policy and Guideline.

18) Risk Management Policy.

19) Share Dealing Policy.

20) Whistleblowing Policy.

21)  Market Sounding Policy. 

1) Board Charter
The Board has adopted a Board Charter which has been updated to 
align its provisions with the requirements of the NCCG 2018, SEC 
Code of Corporate Governance, UK Code of Corporate Governance, 
2018 as well as other applicable listing rules and international best 
practice. The Board Charter sets out the responsibilities of the 
Board; the establishment of the Board Committees with clear 
delegated responsibilities; the matters reserved for the exclusive 
approval of the Board; and the conduct of Board proceedings. The 
Board Charter stipulates the following – the separate and distinct 
duties of the Board Chairman and the CEO, appendage of Sample 
Appointment Letter of the Board of Directors, inclusion of the role  
of the Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) and the Independent 
Non-Executive Directors (INEDs), the role of the Company Secretary; 
the respective Terms of References for all the Board Committees and 
Matters Reserved for the Board. 

2) Code of Business Conduct Policy
The Code of Business Conduct Policy establishes that the Company 
shall have a Code of Business Conduct that states the general 
business principles and commitments of the Company to its 
stakeholders, sets out the values that guide the Company’s conduct, 
legitimate and strategic expectations of its employees in their 
everyday decision-making and with stakeholders. The Policy also 
requires the Code to explain and give guidance on the behavioural, 
attitudinal, and emulative roles of the Directors, Senior 
Management, and employees. The Code is to provide guidance to 
questions or concerns, steps to take and additional resources and 

support on other topics and policies. The Policy also provides for the 
role of the Board, senior managers, managers, and employees. It also 
requires suppliers, contractors, consultants, business partners  
and third parties to apply the standards equivalent to that of the 
Company towards their employees, subcontractors, and suppliers. 

3) Code of Business Conduct
The Board has adopted a Code of Business Conduct (CoBC), which 
outlines the ethical framework under which Seplat conducts 
business – with the highest standards of ethics, accountability, and 
transparency. The CoBC has been designed into an easy-to-read 
format and is an implied contract between the Company and its 
employees, contract staff and business partners to conduct 
business with the highest ethical standards. The Board has reviewed 
and restructured the COBC to provide for the following – (i) The Code 
(which summarises the principles and values by which the Company 
conducts its business); (ii) The Charge (which requires directors, 
employees and contractors to embrace the enshrined ethical values 
of the Code); (iii) Personal Commitment Statement (which models a 
top-down commitment to professional business and ethical 
standards from directors, to employees and contractors and which 
everyone is expected to subscribe to by appending their signatures); 
(iv) The Code of Business Conduct Policy (which states the principles 
and values that the Code should embody, including guidance notes) 
(v) The Code’s Practice Guide; and (vi) Frequently Asked Questions 
(FAQs), which states examples of dilemmas that could arise in the 
course of carrying out work for and on behalf of Seplat. The reviews 
carried out are all in line with the NCCG, UK principles and 
recommended practices. 

4) Board Succession Policy
The Board has adopted a Board Succession Policy which sets out the 
parameters for developing and implementing a succession planning 
programme for Directors of Seplat and ensures that a framework is in 
place for an effective and orderly succession of Directors that will 
result in the collective knowledge, skills and experience in place for 
the Board to effectively govern Seplat. The Policy stipulates Criteria 
for selection of Succession candidate as well as competencies that 
such candidate must possess. The Policy provides Guidelines for 
Implementing the Succession Planning Programme as well as 
Procedure for Executing a Board Succession Plan. The Policy which 
requires the Nominations and Establishment Committee (NOMCO) to 
submit to the Board on a yearly basis a succession plan identifying 
key and critical positions, definitive designation of successors for 
such positions, articulation of specific development plans for 
identified successor which is tied to the Company’s overall 
performance management and career communication. 

5) Board Representation Policy for Incorporated Joint Ventures 
(IJVs) & Other Arrangements
The Board has adopted a Board Representation Policy which 
stipulates principles and defines the parameters within which the 
Seplat IJV Directors will execute their duties and represent Seplat  
on the IJV Boards. The Policy states the qualities, competencies,  
and skill which a candidate nominated to such IJV Boards must 
possess as well as the roles and responsibilities of such IJV 
representative (including responsibilities prior to, during and  
after IJV Board meetings). 

6) Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy
The Board has adopted an Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy which 
is updated from time to time. The Policy demonstrates Seplat’s zero 
tolerance and commitment to the eradication of bribery and 
corruption. It prohibits payment or receipt of facilitation payments, 
misappropriation, ‘kickbacks and blackmail/extortion’. It also sets 
the parameters under which Directors and employees may give or 
receive gifts and hospitality, deal with public officials, and make 
political and charitable donations. The Policy includes reporting, 
documentation, and whistleblowing provisions as well as provisions 
regarding the Company’s zero tolerance and disciplinary action for 
any violation.

93

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate governance report  | continued

7) Anti-Fraud Policy
The Board has adopted an Anti-Fraud Policy which provides Seplat 
stakeholders with relevant guidance on how to recognise and deal 
with fraud, the responsibilities of employees, Directors and third 
parties in upholding Seplat’s position regarding fraud and 
misconduct, mechanisms for prevention, detection and response  
to possible fraud and misconduct in Seplat’s operations; and how  
to foster a culture of integrity, transparency, thereby enhancing 
anti-fraud culture within Seplat. The Policy covers transactions 
conducted by Seplat, with Seplat or on behalf of Seplat and states 
the responsibilities of each stakeholder. The Policy states potential 
indicators of fraud, protection of whistleblowers, fraud risk 
management strategy, reporting of fraud to law enforcement 
agency(-ies) and applicable consequent management following 
investigation findings. 

8) Gifts and Hospitality Policy
The Board has adopted a Gifts and Hospitality Policy which 
establishes acceptable exchange of items of value, conditions under 
which gifts, hospitality and associated expenses may be made, 
received, offered, incurred, or reimbursed in compliance with 
Seplat’s related policies and international best practices. The Policy, 
which serves as part of the implementation strategy for the 
Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy and other related corporate 
governance policy, applies to all Seplat employees, Directors, 
business partners and other stakeholders. The Policy also sets out 
Guidelines on accepting or offering gifts/hospitality as well as 
acceptable gifts to Host Communities. 

9) Bullying and Harassment Policy
The Board has adopted a Bullying and Harassment Policy which sets 
parameters within which the Company will deal with all forms of 
bullying and harassment within the workplace, reinforces Company’s 
commitment to diversity inclusion and mutual respect, creates a 
platform for rewarding conduct that aligns with the Company’s value 
for diversity and outlines zero tolerance approach to addressing all 
acts of bullying and harassment. The Policy applies to all employees 
as well as third parties dealing with Seplat staff. The Policy 
stipulates examples of behaviour that could amount to bullying and 
harassment, implications of bullying and harassment, procedure for 
making complaint and disciplinary action. 

10) Community Relations Policy
The Board has adopted a Community Relations Policy which 
demonstrates Seplat’s value for the communities in which it 
operates, and the Company’s commitment to developing the 
communities through capacity building, business opportunities, 
employment, academic scholarships, charitable donations, 
awareness creation, etc. The details of Seplat’s CSR activities are 
contained in the CSR section of this report.

11) Investors’ Complaint Management Policy
The Company established a Complaint Management Policy pursuant 
to the Rules of the Nigerian SEC released on 16 February 2015 and 
the subsequent directive of the NSE to all listed companies in 
Nigeria. The Policy outlines the procedures established by Seplat to 
address the complaints and other communications received by its 
shareholders and the public in relation to specific matters. The Policy 
is available on the ‘Corporate governance policies’ page of the 
Company’s website. 

12) Conflict of Interest Policy for Directors and Employees
The Board has adopted a Conflict of Interest Policy for Directors and 
employees. This Policy applies to Seplat Directors, shareholder 
representatives on our statutory Audit Committee, and employees. 
The Policy clearly sets out the legally imposed duties of the Board,  
its members, and employees, along with some ethical requirements 
adopted by the Company. Particular attention is given to conflicts 

involving Independent Directors to ensure compliance with both  
the letter and spirit of corporate governance regulations on such 
Directors. The Policy outlines a clear disclosure, review, and 
documentation process for all conflicts of interest involving a 
Director, beginning with a yearly declaration to the Company, for  
the consideration of a dedicated conflict of interest review panel. 
During the year under review, all members of the Board and 
employees participated in the annual declaration of conflict of 
interest or affirmation of independence as applicable. This policy  
has been further reviewed to include special requirements on 
Independent Directors as provided in the SEC code of corporate 
governance, NCCG and UK Code of 2018. 

13) Corporate Communications Policy
The Board has adopted a Corporate Communications Policy which 
establishes guidelines for communication with current and potential 
stakeholders, guarantee accurate and effective communication of 
the Company’s perspective on all issues, ensures compliance with  
all relevant regulatory requirements and best practice standards 
and guidelines governing corporate communication. The Policy sets 
out modalities for both internal and external communications, 
Company’s Authorised Media Spokespersons, preparation and 
release of regulatory announcements, social media/
internet communication. 

14) Electronic Information & Communications Systems Policy
The Board has adopted an Electronic Information & Communications 
Systems Policy which demonstrates Seplat’s commitment to 
responsible, secure, and efficient use of communication systems, 
such as the internet, electronic mail, social media, intellectual 
property, etc.

15) Inside Information Policy
The Board has adopted an Inside Information Policy. The Policy 
clearly defines what constitutes ‘inside information’ and sets a clear 
process for the confidential preservation of such information. It also 
prohibits Seplat Directors, employees, contract staff, business 
partners and their connected persons from using inside information 
to deal in Seplat shares or securities or those of another public 
company. This policy has equally been reviewed to bring it in line  
with the Market Abuse Regulations (MAR). 

16) Political and Charitable Contributions Policy
The Board has adopted a Political and Charitable Contributions 
Policy. The Policy prohibits Directors, employees, contract staff and 
business partners from making political donations or engaging in 
other political activities on behalf of Seplat. It also sets the standard 
and processes for making charitable donations to lawfully 
constituted charitable organisations, in line with the Corporate 
Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of the Company.

17) Related Party Transactions Policy and Guidelines
The Company has adopted a Related Party Transactions Policy which 
sets out the policy statement, stringent disclosure requirements as 
well as the review and decision-making process for such 
transactions. The policy also sets out the special requirements on 
Interested Person Transaction as well as transfer pricing guidelines. 
The Related Party Transactions Policy and Guidelines is a live 
document that is revised from time to time to reflect changes in  
both the Nigerian and the UK laws and regulations. The Policy was 
updated by the Board on 29 January 2016. 

The list of Seplat’s related party transactions is outlined in Note 41  
to the financial statements of the Annual Report and Accounts. 
Seplat is committed to conducting all related party transactions  
in accordance with the arm’s length principles and good corporate 
governance practices.

94

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ interest in contracts
The Chairman and the CEO have disclosable indirect interest in 
contracts with which the Company was involved as of 31 December 
2020 for the purpose of section 303 of the Companies and Allied 
Matters Act, 2020, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria. These are 
contained under the related party disclosures in Note 41.

18) Risk Management Policy
The Board has adopted a Risk Management Policy which is updated 
from time to time. Risk Management Policy demonstrates Seplat’s 
commitment to the enterprise risk management and reporting 
system that ensures efficient identification of operational, financial, 
health, safety and environmental risks, and risk eradication 
and management.

19) Share Dealing Policy
The Board has adopted a Share Dealing Policy which is updated from 
time to time. The Policy demonstrates Seplat’s commitment to 
trading securities in compliance with the requirements of the NSE 
Amended Listing Rules (ALR), the Nigerian Code, the UK Listing Rules 
and European Union Market Abuse Regulations (MAR). The Share 
Dealing Policy reflects the Company’s dual participation in the 
Nigerian and UK Stock Exchanges and highlights the Company’s 
respective obligations under both Nigerian and UK listing 
regulations. The Share Dealing Policy sets the parameters under 
which Directors and employees of Seplat and its subsidiaries, and 
their connected persons, must deal with the Company’s shares, 
securities and inside information. This Policy has been further 
reviewed by the Board in line with MAR provisions which took  
effect from 3 July 2016.

20) Whistleblowing Policy
The Board has adopted a Whistleblowing Policy which is updated 
from time to time. In addition to this Policy, whistleblowing provisions 
are entrenched in all Seplat corporate governance policies. The 
Company has a dedicated whistleblowing hotline for employees and 
other stakeholders to confidentially report unlawful and unethical 
conduct involving the Company, its Directors, or employees. The 
Company’s whistleblowing system comprises an internal and an 
external channel, which are operated concurrently. The internal 
whistleblowing channel is managed by the Company’s Business 
Integrity Unit, reporting directly to the CEO, while the external 
whistleblowing channel is managed by KPMG. The Business Integrity 
Unit and KPMG ensure that all reports are kept confidential and 
appropriately investigated and resolved.

21) Market Sounding Policy
The Board has adopted a Market Sounding Policy which sets out 
guidelines that ensures that the Company and disclosing market 
participant (DMP) acting on the Company’s behalf complies with the 
provisions of MAR when conducting market soundings. The Policy 
stipulates procedure to be followed before conducting market 
soundings, procedure to be followed during market sounding process 
and specific information to be provided and requested where a 
market sounding involves or would not involve the disclosure of 
inside information. 

Declaration of Compliance
In compliance with Section 14.4(b) of the NSE ALR, following specific 
enquiry, all Directors acted in compliance with the NSE ALR  
and Seplat’s Share Dealing Policy in respect of their securities 
transactions during the financial year ending 31 December 2019.

Directors’ declarations
None of the Directors have:

• ever been convicted of an offence resulting from dishonesty, fraud, 

or embezzlement;

• ever been declared bankrupt or sequestrated in any jurisdiction;

• at any time been a party to a scheme of arrangement or made any 

other form of compromise with their creditors;

• ever been found guilty in disciplinary proceedings by an employer or 

regulatory body, due to dishonest activities;

• ever been involved in any receiverships, compulsory liquidations, or 

creditors’ voluntary liquidations;

• ever been barred from entry into a profession or occupation; or

• ever been convicted in any jurisdiction of any criminal offence or an 

offence under any Nigerian or UK legislation.

Signed by: 

A.B.C. Orjiako 
Board Chairman 

Edith Onwuchekwa 
Company Secretary/ 
General Counsel 

Statement of Compliance with Nigerian Stock Exchange 
on Listing on the Premium Board
In Compliance with Section 12.4 of the Rules of the Nigerian Stock 
Exchange on Listing on the Premium Board, we wish to state that 
the SEC Code of Corporate Governance for Public Companies in 
Nigeria, the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria’s Nigerian Code 
of Corporate Governance, 2018 and the UK Corporate Governance 
Code govern the operations of Seplat Petroleum Development 
Company Plc.

We hereby confirm that to the best of our knowledge, Seplat is 
in compliance with the Codes.

Signed by: 

A.B.C. Orjiako 
Board Chairman 

Edith Onwuchekwa 
Company Secretary/ 
General Counsel

95

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Board Committee reports

Remuneration Committee 
report

6 

 Remuneration 
Committee 
meetings in 2020

Xavier Rolet, KBE  

Picture credit: Roger Askew/ Shutterstock

The Remuneration Committee is a standing committee of the Board 
and is comprised wholly of Independent Non-Executive Directors in 
compliance with the Nigerian Code and the UK Code. Michael 
Alexander was chairman of the Remuneration Committee throughout 
2020 and on his retirement from the Board on 31 January 2021 was 
succeeded by Xavier Rolet. You will see below details of the terms of 
reference for the Remuneration Committee and a summary of the 
activities carried out during the year.

The Remuneration Committee is established to ensure that 
remuneration arrangements for Seplat’s Chairman, Executive 
Directors, Non-Executive Directors and senior management support 
the strategic aims of the business and enable the recruitment, 
motivation and retention of relevant skilled personnel while 
satisfying the expectations of shareholders. 

Details of the Company’s proposed remuneration policy are outlined 
on pages 115-116 of the 2020 Annual Report and Accounts. In the 
interest of transparency, no Director by reason of being a member  
of the Committee, is involved in any decisions relating to his/her  
own remuneration.

Xavier Rolet, KBE   
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

96

27 
Jan

18 
Mar

28 
April 

22 
July

20 
Oct 

2 
Dec 

2020 Members
Michael Alexander (SID) 1,
Chairman to 31 January 2021

Charles Okeahalam 2, Member

Basil Omiyi 2, Member

Damian Dodo SAN2, Member

Xavier Rolet, KBE 3,
Member and Chairman from 1 February 2021

–

–

–

–

6/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

2/2

1. Senior Independent Non-Executive Director. 
2. Independent Non-Executive Director.
3.  Xavier Rolet was appointed to the Board as an Independent Non-executive Director 
on October 1, 2020. Following his appointment, he attended the two Remuneration 
Committee meetings that were held after his appointment and he was appointed 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee from 1 February 2021.

In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Committee held six meetings, the 
dates and attendance records for which can be seen in the table above.

All members of the Remuneration Committee are Independent 
Non-Executive Directors in order to preserve the transparency and 
integrity of remuneration processes. The Remuneration Committee 
meets at least four times a year and, when required, the meetings 
are attended by appropriate senior management of the Company 
(such as the Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Human 
Resources), and external advisers upon invitation.

When proposing remuneration to the Board, the Committee ensures 
that:

• the remuneration for Executive Directors is appropriately balanced 
between fixed and variable pay elements, which may include annual 
bonus and equity-based awards;

• Executive Directors do not receive any sitting allowances or fees 

that may be payable to Non-Executive Directors;

• the remuneration of Non-Executive Directors is determined by the 

Chairman and the Executive Directors; and

• no Director or manager is involved in any decisions as to his/her own 

remuneration.

In accordance with its terms of reference, the Remuneration 
Committee assists the Board in:

• Determining the framework for the remuneration of the Chairman, 
Chief Executive Officer, Executive Directors and members of senior 
management, including without limitation, the schemes of 
performance-based incentives (including share incentive plans), 
awards, and pension arrangements and benefits for the Executive 
Directors and senior management.

• Ensuring that contractual terms and payments in respect of 

dismissal, loss of office or termination (whether for misconduct or 
otherwise) are fair and not excessive to the individual.

• Providing appropriate input on Directors’ remuneration for the 

Company’s Annual Report and Accounts.

• Preparing necessary remuneration procedures and policies in 

compliance with the Nigerian Code, UK Code and other applicable 
laws and regulations, and in consideration of remuneration trends 
in the oil and gas industry in the area where Seplat operates.

• Reviewing remuneration and related matters to ensure that they 

are consistent with corporate governance best practice.

• Reviewing up-to-date information about remuneration in other 

companies in the oil and gas sector with the aid of 
qualified consultants.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
• Overseeing any major changes in employee benefits structures 

throughout Seplat.

• Designing the policy for authorising claims for expenses from 

• Granting awards under the Company’s LTIP as well as monitoring 
performance progress of outstanding awards and determining  
the vesting of the 2017 LTIP awards in current financial year.

Executive and Non-Executive Directors.

• Drafting the Company’s Directors’ Remuneration Report.

• Regularly reviewing the ongoing appropriateness and relevance of 

• Reviewing the role of the Remuneration Committee and its 

the Company’s remuneration policy.

Highlights of business carried out by the Remuneration Committee 
during the year include:

• Monitoring the implementation of the Company’s remuneration 

policy and practice.

• Ensuring the appropriate cascade of the remuneration policy to the 

senior management grades.

• Setting the forthcoming year Annual Bonus Performance targets 

for the CEO; CFO; Board executives and senior management. These 
targets are cascaded throughout the Company to ensure alignment.

• Review of executive remuneration and pay for the wider workforce 
for FY 20 in light of the economic impact of the depressed oil price 
and the Covid-19 implications on the economy.

compliance with the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code and  
the 2018 Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance.

• Reviewing the scale of the completed supplementary activity 
requested by the Board carried out by the Finance Committee 
Chairman and the additional one-off payment to the Finance 
Committee Chair in compensation for the time involved in line with 
approved policy.

• Review of the outgoing CEO remuneration and exit package. 

• Review of the remuneration terms for the new CEO and CFO. 

• Reviewed the framework for termination payments for senior 

management employees and Non-Executive Directors.

• Review of the Chairman’s Supplementary contract and proposed 

continuation of the contract from 1 January 2021. 

• Review Executive Management performance over the past year  

• Review of the Remuneration Policy in line with corporate 

to determine the appropriate levels of Annual Bonus – the 
consequence of this review cascades throughout the Company.

• Determining the 2021 fee and salary levels for the Chairman, 

Executive Directors and senior management.

• Reviewing the LTIP performance measures and targets to ensure 

continued appropriateness of the incentive structure and alignment 
with underlying corporate performance.

governance best practice, changes to the Company’s business 
strategy, the need to attract, retain and motivate executives and 
investor sentiment and drafting the proposed remuneration policy 
set out on pages 115-116 of the 2020 Annual Report and Accounts. 

The Committee will continue to be mindful of the concerns of 
shareholders and other stakeholders and welcomes shareholder 
feedback on any issue related to executive remuneration. 

97

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Board Committee reports  | continued

Finance Committee 
report

5 

 Finance Committee 
meetings in 2020

Dr. Charles Okeahalam
Dr. Charles Okeahalam

I am pleased to make this report to Seplat shareholders on the 
activities of the Finance Committee, which I trust you will find to be 
of interest.

The Finance Committee was constituted in 2013 in compliance with 
the UK Code’s requirement for an audit committee and consists 
wholly of Independent Non-Executive Directors as listed above. You 
will see below the details of the terms of reference for the Finance 
Committee. During the year, the Committee focused on strategies 
to bolster the Company’s financial performance amidst volatile oil 
prices and an extremely challenging operating and financial 
environment. We remained steadfast in our resolve to explore and 
execute viable solutions to each operational and financial 
challenge. The details of our activities are contained below.

I shall be available at the AGM of the Company to be held on 
20 May 2021 in Lagos, Nigeria to talk with shareholders, or if 
you are not able to meet me there, I can be contacted via the 
Company Secretary.

Dr. Charles Okeahalam1  
Chairman of the Finance Committee 

1  Independent Non-Executive Director.

98

27 
Jan

12 
Mar

21 
Apr

21 
July

21 
Oct

2020 Members
Charles Okeahalam 1, Chairman

Michael Alexander 1, Member

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown 1, Member

Ifueko Omoigui Okauru 1, Member

Arunma Oteh 1&2, Member

–

–

–

–

5/5

5/5

5/5

5/5

1/1

1. Independent Non-Executive Director.
2.  Arunma Oteh was appointed to the Board as an Independent Non-Executive Director 

on October 1, 2020. Following her appointment, she attended one (1) Finance 
Committee meeting that held after her October 2020 appointment.

Charles Okeahalam, Ifueko Omoigui Okauru and Arunma Oteh have recent and relevant 
financial experience, as highlighted in the profile of Directors on page 85.

In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Committee held five meetings, dates 
and attendance records for which can be seen in the table above.

The Finance Committee consists of five members, all of whom are 
Independent Non-Executive Directors. The Committee meets at least 
four times a year, and its meetings are attended by appropriate senior 
management of the Company, including the Chief Financial Officer, 
the Head of Internal Audit, the Head of Business Integrity and the 
Head of Internal Controls.

The Finance Committee assists the Board in:

• monitoring the integrity of financial statements and any formal 

announcements relating to its financial performance, reviewing any 
significant financial reporting judgements contained in them;

• reviewing the Company’s financial controls and financial risk 

management systems;

• overseeing financial strategy, policy and treasury matters;

• reviewing and approving major capital expenditures;

• making recommendations to the Board for presentation to the 

shareholders for approval at the AGM in relation to the 
appointment, re-appointment and removal of the external auditor; 
and approving the remuneration and terms of engagement of the 
external auditor;

• reviewing and monitoring the external auditors’ independence and 

objectivity and the effectiveness of the audit process;

• developing and implementing policy on the engagement of the 

external auditor to supply non-audit services, taking into account 
relevant ethical guidance regarding the provision of non-audit 
services by the external audit firm; and reporting to the Board, 
identifying any matters in respect of which it considers that action 
or improvement is needed and making recommendations as to the 
steps to be taken;

• monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of the Company’s 

Internal Audit function and its activities;

• providing advice on whether the Annual Report and Accounts, taken 
as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable and provides the 
information necessary for shareholders to assess the Company’s 
position and performance, business model and strategy; and

• overseeing and evaluating the effectiveness of (and compliance 
with) the Company’s corporate governance policies (including 
without limitation: conflicts of interest, related-party transactions 
and whistleblowing).

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The Committee’s activities during 2020
The Committee met five times during 2020. In compliance with the 
Committee’s terms of reference, it considered the following:

Financial statements: the Committee reviewed the report from the 
external auditors and management on the interim and annual 
financial statements and the accompanying public releases. In doing 
so, it considered the following:

• the oil and gas reserve estimates;

• revenue recognition;

• fraud and management override;

• Impact of new accounting standards and regulations 

• impact of the fair value adjustments on oil hedges;

• amount provisioned on OML 25 and OML 55; 

• impairments on the oil and gas assets;

• contingent liability;

• areas that required significant estimation, judgement or 

uncertainty;

• compliance with financial reporting and governance standards;

• the basis for the going concern assessment; 

• related party transactions; 

• Company’s compliance with OPEC quotas and deferments across 

all assets; and

• NPDC and NAPIMS receivables.

Strengthening the Company’s statement of financial position: the 
Committee worked closely with Management to explore the 
immediate and long-term strategies for improving the Company’s 
statement of financial position. The US$350 million SEPLAT  
Revolving Credit Facility (RCF) is currently drawn at US$250 million. 
US $100million was repaid on the RCF resulting in a savings of c. 
US $10,000 per day in interest charges. The US$100 million remains 
available for drawdown if required. The Company’s position of 
established financial strength ensures the Company is now 
positioned to fund growth opportunities.

Cash flow analyses: the Committee worked closely with Management 
and ensured the disciplined approach to capital allocation was 
achieved following a substantial leverage of the statement of financial 
position. The minimum cash position was established and reviewed 
as adequate during the period.

Alternative export routes: Management had continued to achieve 
considerable progress to ensure completion of the Amukpe-Escravos 
Pipeline Project. The Trans Forcados pipeline uptime in the period was 
significantly higher than prior years at over 83%. The Amukpe 
Escravos Pipeline is expected to be commissioned in 2021.

Cost management: the Committee reviewed the continuous  
efforts by Management to efficiently manage costs. General and 
administrative costs were maintained at relatively flat levels during 
the year.

Oil hedging: the Committee reviewed the implementation of the 
existing oil hedging strategy and ensured that appropriate levels of 
revenue protection were considered at the same time as ensuring that 
the risk and costs of hedging were manageable.

Budgets: the Committee reviewed the annual budget in detail to 
ensure the assumptions were consistent with the business 
environment and appropriate growth targets. Oil price sensitivities, 
alternative export routes, cost reductions, impact of major 
acquisitions and impact of Naira devaluation were considered as a 
part of the process.

Deferred tax: the Committee reviewed the appropriateness of 
deferred tax charges in the year.

Internal and external audit: the Committee reviewed and made 
recommendations on the internal and external audit plans and the 
underlying activities, and monitored the extent and timing of 
remediation by Management.

Internal controls and risk management: the Committee reviewed the 
business risks including the management and mitigation of financial 
risks and the timeline for remediation.

Corporate governance compliance: the Committee reviewed the 
corporate governance framework to determine and make 
recommendations on its alignment with current Nigerian and UK 
regulations as well as the levels of compliance in the Company. The 
Committee also reviewed the effectiveness of the Business Integrity 
Unit, the whistleblowing policy, as well as reports made through the 
whistleblowing system and efforts to resolve them.

Interim and final dividend: the Committee considered the impact of 
declaring an interim and final dividend.

The significant issues considered by the Committee in relation to the 
financial statements were:

Payment of dividends in foreign currency: the Committee 
considered the implication of the Central Bank of Nigeria foreign 
exchange directive on the ability of the Company to pay dividends and 
contracts in foreign exchange.

Related party transactions: the Committee undertook a thorough 
review as to the number and extent of related party transactions. It 
was decided that the Committee would continue to monitor these 
closely with a goal of reducing the number and value of related party 
transactions through the introduction of other service providers.

Impairment: the Committee reviewed the impairment tests 
performed by management which was also an area of focus for the 
external auditor. In assessing the impact of impairment, oil price 
assumptions were compared with a number of external reference 
points and compared to ensure that the management estimates were 
appropriate. The impairment trigger resulted from the oil price impact 
due mainly to the Covid-19 global crisis.

Eland financing: the Committee reviewed the two lending facilities in 
place at Elcrest Level: Eland Reserve Based Loan Facility and the 
Westport Shareholder loan and recommended the restructuring of 
the Westport Shareholder Loan to the Board.

99

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020External audit
The objectiveness and independence of the external auditor are taken 
seriously by the Company and this is reviewed each year prior to 
commencement of the audit process. The Committee has a policy of 
ensuring that the external auditors’ independence is maintained by 
minimising the provision of non-audit services and this is monitored 
closely throughout the year. Further to the process for the 
appointment of a new external auditor following the ten-year tenure 
completed by the previous external auditor, PwC were appointed as 
the external auditor for 2020.

The statutory audit fees earned by the external auditor for the audit 
services can be found in Note 10 to the financial statements. 

Prior to commencement of the audit, the Finance Committee meets 
with the external auditor to review the audit plan and reports. This is 
to ensure that the Committee has a thorough understanding of the 
higher risk areas designed to ensure that there are no material 
misstatements in the financial statements.

The Committee has reviewed the external auditors’ performance and 
independence taking into account input from Management as well as 
interaction with the external auditor without Management present. In 
making its assessment, the Committee focused on the robustness of 
the audit, the extent of investigation into the business and the quality 
and objectiveness of the audit team. Based on this information, the 
Committee concluded that the audit process is operating effectively 
and has thus recommended to the Board that the current auditor, 
PwC Nigeria, be reappointed as external auditor at the 2021 AGM. 
PwC was first appointed on 28 May 2020. The Company complies with 
the Nigerian corporate governance regulations, while observing those 
in the UK by strategically adopting the most stringent conditions 
under both sets of regulations. This results in the audit partner being 
rotated every five years and the audit being put out to tender at least 
every ten years.

Board Committee reports  | continued

Internal Audit
During 2020, the Finance Committee on behalf of the Board reviewed 
the audit plan and received quarterly reports on the Internal Audit 
activities. EY supported the Internal Audit team under a manpower 
call-off contract to provide resources as required in delivering the 
Internal Audit plan.

The Head of Internal Audit reports directly to the Board through the 
Chairman of the Finance Committee with an administrative reporting 
line to the CEO. The Internal Audit function therefore has direct access 
to the Finance Committee and its main responsibilities include:

• evaluating the adequacy, reliability and effectiveness of 

governance, risk management and internal controls systems;

• evaluating the reliability and integrity of information and the means 
used to identify, measure, classify and report on such information;

• evaluating the means of safeguarding assets and verifying the 

existence of such assets, as appropriate; 

• evaluating the systems established to ensure compliance with 

those policies, plans, procedures, laws and regulations which could 
have a significant impact on the organisation; and 

• performing consulting and advisory services on new initiatives and 

matters related to governance, risk management and internal 
controls as appropriate for the Company.

The Internal Audit strategy in 2020 provided greater focus on 
operational areas of capital spend to provide assurance about the 
effectiveness of operational controls, project management efficiency 
and delivery and achievement of strategic objectives underpinning 
the capital deployment. Internal Audit focused on risk areas in the 
selection of key projects for Audits, detailed testing of contracts and 
procurement processes and controls, regulatory compliance and 
reporting of corporate governance, review of information technology 
general controls and processes. In light of the ongoing global 
pandemic, Internal Audit also focused on the following key enterprise 
risk areas; Covid pandemic and threat to the global economy, oil price 
slump and lockdown/work from home.

The results of the Internal Audit findings were considered by the 
Committee at the majority of the meetings and the remedial plans 
were discussed with Management. As a quarterly activity, Internal 
Audit also conducted checkpoint remediation reviews to ensure that 
management was effectively closing out identified control gaps from 
prior audit findings.

Internal Audit continued to work through the approved 
implementation roadmap following the external assessment of its 
function and activities which occurred in the previous two years. This 
included the implementation of Internal Audit management software 
to further enhance effectiveness and quality of the audit function.

100

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Nomination and Establishment 
Committee report

6 

 Nomination and 
Establishment 
Committee meetings 
in 2020

Mr. Damian Dodo, SAN

2020 Members
Damian Dodo, SAN1, Chairman

27 
Jan

22 
April

19 
May

18 
Jun

22 
July

20 
Oct

Michael Alexander (SINED)2, Member

Basil Omiyi1, Member

Mark Malloch-Brown1*, Member

Arunma Oteh1**, Member 

–

–

–

–

–

–

6/6

6/6

6/6

5/5

1/1

1. Independent Non-Executive Director.
2. Senior Independent Non-Executive Director.
*  Lord Mark Malloch-Brown was appointed to the Committee in April 2020.
**    Ms. Arunma Oteh joined the Board in October 2020 and the Committee in the 

same month.

In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Committee held six meetings (four 
quarterly meetings and two emergency meetings). The dates and attendance records 
for all the meetings are reflected in the table above.

The Nomination and Establishment Committee was very vigorous 
and effective during the year. During the first quarter of the year, the 
Committee was informed that Mr. Michel Hochard in his role as the 
Chief Executive Officer of Maurel et Prom (M&P), was appointed to 
the Board of SEPLAT as a nominee of M&P. However, following his 
retirement as the CEO of M&P, the Board of M&P appointed Mr. 
Olivier De Langavant as its new CEO thereby replacing Mr. Hochard 
as its nominee on the Board of Seplat. 

In the desire to refresh the Board and in line with its Succession  
Plan, the Committee received the CVs of two proposed nominees  
to the Board, for its consideration and approval. The nominees were: 
(i) Ms. Arunma Oteh – Former DG, Securities and Exchange 
Commission, Former Treasurer – World Bank, etc.; and (ii) Mr. Xavier 
R. Rolet, KBE – Chairman, Board of PHOSAGRO PJSC, UK, etc. Both 
were duly considered and approved. They joined the Board in  
October 2020 as Independent Non-Executive Directors. 

The Committee considered a Travel Policy for Directors which also 
approved by the Board. As part of developing the capacity of Board 
members, a training offered by CERAWEEK Partners was scheduled in 
early March 2020 for interested Board members. However, due to the 
outbreak of the global pandemic Covid-19, the training was cancelled. 

The Committee was informed that the concluded CEO Succession 
Plan had opened the position of the CFO for resourcing and that an 
executive recruiting firm, Pedersen & Partners (external consultant) 
had already been briefed to commence the recruitment process for 
the role. On the succession plan for key management roles, the 
Committee took note of some high-level departures such as the CEO 
(Mr. Austin Avuru) who retired on 31 July 2020 and was replaced by 
the CFO (Mr. Roger Brown).

In the second quarter of the year, the Committee focused on the 
recruitment of a new CFO for Seplat. A Committee made up of all 
members of the Nomination Committee, the Finance Committee 
Chairman and CEO, was put together to oversee this process in 
conjunction with the external consultant. The process was finalised 
with the appointment of Mr. Emeka Onwuka who emerged the  
best qualified candidate with years of experience in this role. He 
thereafter joined the Company and the Board on 1 August as the  
new CFO of Seplat. 

In the third quarter the Committee received an update on the new 
organisational structure from the new CEO (Mr. Brown) who took over 
on 1 August 2020. Following his retirement as the CEO of Seplat on 
31 July, Mr. Austin Avuru was appointed a Non-Executive Director on 
the Board and as a nominee shareholder of Platform Petroleum 
Limited effective 1 August 2020. 

The Committee also undertook a critical review of the Company’s 
subsidiary board governance. This review led to the restructuring of 
the subsidiary companies in line with the new internal reorganisation 
and provisions of the new Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020. 

Other 2020 activities of the Committee are outlined below.  
For further clarification, I shall be available at the AGM of the 
Company to be held on 20 May 2021 in Lagos, Nigeria to speak with 
shareholders. If you are not able to meet me at this year’s AGM,  
I can be contacted through the Company Secretary.

Mr. Damian Dodo, SAN  
Chairman of the Nomination and Establishment Committee

101

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Board Committee reports  | continued

All five members of the Nomination and Establishment Committee 
are Independent Non-Executive Directors. The Committee meets at 
least four times a year. When required, the meetings of the 
Committee are attended by other members of the Board such as the 
Board Chairman and the Finance Committee Chairman, appropriate 
Senior Management of the Company (such as the Chief Executive 
Officer, Company Secretary/Chief Governance Compliance Officer 
and General Manager Human Resources) and external advisers upon 
invitation by the Committee Chairman.

In accordance with the provisions of the SEC Code of Corporate 
Governance and the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance, 2018, 
the Nomination and Establishment Committee assists the Board to:

• review at least annually the size, composition and balance of the 
Board and its Committees and make recommendations on any 
proposed changes to the Board;

• evaluate the balance of skills, experience, independence and 

knowledge on the Board and, in the light of this evaluation, prepare 
a description of the role and capabilities required for a particular 
appointment and ascertain that the nominees are fit and proper to 
carry out the duties of a Director;

• review the criteria for Board and Board Committee memberships, 

review candidates’ qualifications and any potential conflict of 
interest, assess the contribution of current Directors in connection 
with their re-nomination and make recommendations to the Board;

• ensure that a Board Succession Policy and Succession Plan exists 

for the positions of Chairman, CEO, Executive Directors and 
managing directors for the subsidiary companies;

Highlights of the business carried out by the Nomination and 
Establishment Committee during the year include:

• confirmed the retirement of Mr. Michel Hochard and the 

appointment of Mr. Olivier De Langavant in his place on the Board as 
a Non-Executive Director;

• deliberated and closed out on a petition by a Seplat employee who 

alleged unfair treatment and wrongful termination of his contract of 
employment with the Company; 

• update on Management Succession Plan with the retirement of the 
CEO (Mr. Avuru) in July 2020 and the appointment of a new CEO (Mr. 
Brown) effective 1 August 2020; early retirement of some other 
members of the Senior Management Team and recruitment of new 
hires to fill some of these positions;

• received a presentation on Job Evaluation Overview and 

Performance Management from Korn Ferry, an HR Consultant;

• full oversight on the recruitment of a new CFO who joined the 

Company and Board in August 2020;

• considered and approved the Travel Policy for Directors;

• deliberated and approved the proposal on Board refreshment 

which led to the appointment of Mr. Xavier R. Rolet and Ms. Arunma 
Oteh as Independent Non-Executive Directors on the Board 
effective 1 October 2020;

• received notice of retirement from Mr. Michael Alexander and Mrs. 
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru as Directors effective 31 January 2021; 

• reviewed and dealt with a misguided petition against the Board 

• ensure that the Company has a formal programme for the induction 

Chairman;

and training of Directors;

• undertake the annual assessment of the independent status of 

each INED;

• review the performance and effectiveness of the subsidiary 

company boards on an annual basis where applicable;

• keep up to date and be fully informed about strategic issues and 
commercial changes affecting the Company and the market in 
which it operates;

• prepare a job specification for the Chairman’s position, including an 

assessment of time commitment required of the candidate;

• identify and nominate for the approval of the Board, candidates to 

fill Board vacancies as and when they arise;

• recommend to the Board any proposed appointments or removals 
of Directors to be made in accordance with Seplat's Memorandum 
and Articles of Association; and evaluate the performance of 
Directors and make recommendations on the addition or 
replacement of Executive and Non-Executive Directors and the 
Chairman of the Board;

• appointment of Mr. Avuru as a Non-Executive Director and a 

representative of Platform Petroleum Limited on the Board of 
Seplat; 

• quarterly review of the HR Dashboard which highlighted the 
following key updates: (i) new hires and departures including 
resignations; (ii) total number of males & females; (iii) maintenance 
of a healthy workforce; (iv) staff turnover compared to the global 
average annual rate; (v) Ongoing initiatives and preventive measures 
put in place for employees in response to the global Covid-19 
pandemic such as work from home rule, setting up of a monitoring 
committee to advise leadership on business continuity and to 
educate employees on any update regarding the pandemic, 
availability of medical treatment for employees and their 
dependants for Covid-19 testing and treatment where necessary; 
(vi) gradual return of employees to the office post Covid-19, etc. 

• re-election of retiring Directors by rotation at the AGM;

• recommendation for promotion of members of the Senior 

Management Team;

• proposal on nomination of Directors to the Statutory Audit 

• oversee management’s implementation of the Company’s human 

Committee;

capital development policies and procedures;

• appointment of Lord Mark Malloch-Brown and Ms. Arunma Oteh as 

• recruit, promote, develop, review succession planning or 

disciplinary measures affecting Executive Directors and Senior 
Management; and 

• develop a process for, and ensure that the Board undertakes, an 

annual performance evaluation of itself, its Committees, the 
Chairman and individual Directors as well as the Company’s CG 
policies and practices.

members of the Committee effective April and October 2020 
respectively;

• considered and approved the proposal on Board restructuring of all 
the Company’s subsidiaries and affiliates companies in view of the 
new internal reorganisation and provisions of the new CAMA 2020;

• update on the new organisational structure which led to the key 

changes in the functions of the Senior Team and reporting lines to 
the CEO, etc. 

102

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The Board appointment process:
The Nomination and Establishment Committee leads the process  
for identifying and recommending the appointment of new Directors 
to the Board. This process involves engaging an external search 
company, which conducts external search for prospective 
candidates with appropriate skills and qualifications for 
specified directorship.

Following an external search, the Nomination and Establishment 
Committee also receives internal proposals from the Board 
members before conducting interviews of the short-listed 
candidates and recommends the selected candidate(s) to the Board 
for appointment after it has determined that the selected 
candidate(s) has the balance of skills, knowledge and experience 
that meets the leadership needs of the Company and that the 
selected candidate(s) is able to fulfil his/her duties and obligations  
as a Director.

In the event that the candidate(s) is to be appointed as an 
Independent Non-Executive Director, the Board will determine 
whether the candidate is independent in character and judgement, 
and whether there are circumstances which are likely to affect, or 
appear to affect, the candidate’s judgement as a Director.

Diversity at Seplat
Seplat’s Board and employees are amongst its greatest assets and 
key stakeholders. The Company is therefore committed to promoting 
a diverse and an inclusive workplace that will maximise value to the 
business and ensure the sustainable success of the Company. It is 
therefore the policy and practice of the Company to attract, recruit 
and retain diverse and talented members of the Board, Management 
and workforce. The Company during the year under review adopted  
a Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Policy aimed at setting the parameters 
within which Seplat will promote diversity and inclusion within 
the organisation. 

This Policy applies to all Directors, employees, and business 
partners, including their respective recruitment, engagement, 
remuneration, evaluation, and promotion. This Policy also applies  
in all countries and locations in which Seplat operates, except in 
jurisdictions where the Company has adopted a specific policy 
on D&I. 

The current Board consists of nationals from a variety of cultures 
within Nigeria and internationally, who have diverse expertise in the 
local and international oil and gas industry and different business 
sectors. The Nomination and Establishment Committee’s 
consideration of candidates for directorship includes a review of 
diversity matters. Diversity among Directors provides a strong mix  
of views and experiences to leverage the Board’s decision-making 
processes and leadership activities. There are currently two female 
Directors on the Board: (a) Madame Nathalie Delapalme; and (b) 
Ms. Arunma Oteh.

The Board also promotes diversity throughout the business.  
Seplat’s Senior Management Team consists of men and women from 
different cultures in Nigeria and internationally, who have varying 
skills and experience in the different sub-sectors of the oil and gas 
industry. The Board is proud of the increasing number of women 
within the Senior Management Team. Overall, the Company’s 
full-time workforce comprises of 26% women and *five different 
nationalities.

The Board is committed to continuous investment in diversity among 
its Directors and employees.

*Note: Some have dual nationalities.

103

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Gas Committee report

3 

 Gas Committee 
meetings in 2020

Basil Omiyi

I am pleased to present to you the Gas Committee report for the 2020 
financial year. The Gas Committee was constituted by the Board in 
2018 with the goal of fine tuning Seplat’s gas strategy and to bring 
greater focus to the management of the Company’s gas business 
risks. The Gas Committee aims to help the Company successfully 
navigate the dynamic landscape of the gas market and to position 
the gas business as a robust stand-alone midstream business. 
I shall be available at the AGM of the Company to be held on 20 May 
2021 in Lagos, Nigeria to talk with shareholders, or if you are not able 
to meet me there, I can be contacted via the Company Secretary. 

Basil Omiyi1  
Chairman of the Gas Committee

1. Independent Non-Executive Director.

104

2020 Members
Basil Omiyi1, Chairman

Michael Alexander (SID)2, Member

Charles Okeahalam, Member 

Arunma Oteh, Member3

18 
March

20 
July

20 
Oct 

3/3

3/3

3/3

1/1

–

–

1. Independent Non-Executive Director.
2. Senior Independent Non-Executive Director.
3.  Appointed Independent Non-Executive Director October 2020 and became a 

Member of the Gas Committee in October 2020.

The Committee held three meetings in the financial year ended 31 December 2020. 
The dates, attendance and new membership records are as shown in the table and 
Notes 1-3 above.

The Gas Committee, in the financial year under review, was 
comprised of four Independent Non-Executive Directors who have 
strong leadership experience in the Nigerian and International Gas 
industry, as well as in-depth knowledge of finance. Ms. Arunma Oteh 
joined the Committee in October 2020. Details of the terms of 
reference for the Gas Committee and a summary of the activities 
carried out during the financial year are as shown below.

In accordance with its terms of reference, the Gas Committee is 
established to assist the Board in: 

1. 

2. 

3. 

4. 

5. 

 periodic review of a long-term strategic Gas Master Plan for 
SEPLAT that is consistent with the vision of the Company, and a 
framework for implementing the Plan; 

 overseeing the Company’s successful transition from upstream 
operations into the midstream value chain and beyond, including 
gas prospects, commercial activities and legislative implications; 

 reviewing issues as they arise in major ongoing midstream 
investments of the Company, such as the Assa-North Ohaji-
South (ANOH) project; 

 reviewing the investment portfolio and opportunities of Seplat’s 
gas subsidiary company, Seplat Gas Company Limited; 

 receiving and considering reports relating to the Gas business, 
including gas prospects, commercial activities and legislative 
updates; and 

6. 

 overseeing other activities that are related to the Gas business of 
Seplat as the Board may approve from time to time. 

Gas business oversight
The Gas Committee oversaw, among other activities, the following 
activities of the Gas business:

I. 

 Gas sales volume: Over the course of the financial year, the 
Committee paid close attention to gas sales volumes, 
particularly as Nigeria and the global economy were impacted  
by the Covid-19 pandemic. The lockdown occasioned by the 
Covid-19 pandemic affected gas demand by industrial 
customers. However, the Company was able to meet its gas sales 
volume in the year under review. The Committee equally 
monitored the drilling of the gas wells planned for the year. The 
wells planned for drilling were successfully completed and are 
expected to boost gas sales volumes. 

II. 

 Turnaround maintenance of Oben Gas Plant: The Committee 
received the report on the Oben Gas Plant turnaround 
maintenance, which was successfully completed on 13 March 
2020, with the plant restarting on 14 March 2020, a day ahead 
of schedule.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020III. 

IV. 

 Collection of outstanding debt: The Committee monitored the 
collection of outstanding debts from Gas business customers. 
The Company made impressive strides in the collection of 
payments, considering the business disruptions experienced 
due to Covid-19. The improved collections kept the Company’s 
total overdue receivables well below the target of not more than 
US$50million. The Company intends to sustain the 
improvements achieved to support further growth in the 
Gas business.

 Gas to grid power: The power sector is the major customer for 
gas in Nigeria and the Company therefore will remain exposed  
to the sector’s fortunes. There are a number of challenges in the 
gas-to-power value chain, including inadequate liquidity and 
dilapidated facilities. The Power Sector Reform Programme 
being implemented by the Government, if successful, will 
alleviate these challenges. In the year under review, the 
Committee monitored developments in the Gas-to-Grid  
Power space; particularly as it relates to the following: 

a)  The new electricity tariff: The implementation of the new 

electricity tariff provides some level of comfort of improved 
cash flow in the gas-to-power value chain in the near term, 
based on the 60% increase and a promise of further 
improvement from 2021. 

b)  Review of domestic gas pricing: The Committee deliberated on 
proposals being made to the Federal Government on reduction 
of gas price for Domestic Supply Obligation (DSO) from current 
$2.50/Mscf to $2.00/Mscf. This is being monitored to ensure 
cost-reflective pricing for gas.

V. 

VI. 

 New Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) draft: The Committee 
deliberated on the new PIB draft, which proposes a gas price of 
$3.20/Mscf. However, there are indications that the proposed 
gas price under the draft PIB could be challenged by 
some stakeholders.

 Sapele Gas Project: The Committee considered progress 
recorded and the challenges faced regarding Project. 
Notwithstanding the budget constraints and current funding,  
the associated gas compressors (to reduce gas flares) and the 
generators that will power the plant have been completed and 
are being accelerated ahead of full completion of the project.

VII.   Diversification of customer base and markets: The Committee 
continued to pay attention to the drive for diversification of 
customer base and achievement of good balance between the 
Power and other sectors, particularly the off-grid opportunities 
that would ensure delivery of gas to various enterprise and 
industrial parks. The Committee also considered updates 
regarding opportunities for delivery of gas to the regional gas 
market. 

ANOH Project: Key highlights of deliberations and activities relating 
to the ANOH Project carried out by the Gas Committee during the 
year include: 

I. 

 Funding: The Committee monitored the funding availability for 
the ANOH Gas Processing Company Limited (AGPC) during the 
financial year. AGPC received a final equity injection from both 
the Nigerian Gas Company (USD$60million) and Seplat 
(USD$30 million) respectively. Thus, both NGC and Seplat 
completed their respective equity injection obligations of 
USD$210million each, eliminating the risk of equity funding on 
the Project). The Committee also considered the debt financing 
for the Project which was to be provided by a consortium of 
seven banks – Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc (advisor), United Bank for 
Africa Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, FirstRand Bank Limited (London 
Branch)/RMB Nigeria Limited, The Mauritius Commercial Bank 
Limited, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc and FCMB Capital Markets 
Limited. The completion of this funding was signed on  
1 February 2021. 

II. 

 Resourcing: The Committee also considered the level of 
resourcing available to support the ANOH project. AGPC 
recorded the following milestones in terms of resourcing for 
the project:

• Approval of the Project construction phase organisation by the 

AGPC Board; 

• Operations phase organisation plan has been put in place for 

the project; 

• Completion of the Graduate Trainee recruitment selection 

process, which was based on merit, while putting into 
consideration indigenes from the immediate community, Imo 
state and its environs; 

• Recruitment of a Company Secretary/Legal Adviser for AGPC; 

• Approval of the remuneration policy by the AGPC board. 

III. 

 Stakeholder Management/Community Relations: The 
Committee also monitored the stakeholder management and 
community relations activities in relation to the project. Some of 
the progress recorded includes: 

• finalisation of the ANOH Global Memorandum of Understanding 

(GMoU), which is being discussed with the communities; 

• donation of palliative items to the Assa community as part of 

efforts to curb the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic in local area; 

IV. 

V. 

VI. 

 Change in the Seplat and NGC nominees to the AGPC Board: 
During the financial year, Seplat and NGC went through a 
reorganisation that resulted in the appointment of  
Mr. Okechukwu Mba as the new Managing Director of AGPC, 
while Mrs. Yetunde Taiwo has been appointed the General 
Manager to lead Seplat’s New Energy portfolio and to be  
General Manager of Seplat’s Gas Business. 

 Gas evacuation pipelines: The Committee also considered the 
readiness of the Dry Gas Export Pipelines, i.e., the Obiafu-
Obrikom-Oben (OB3) and spur line, particularly on the River Niger 
crossing. The Company is lending its expertise to NGC to 
accelerate progress. 

 Condensate evacuation: The Committee also considered 
potential offtakers in respect of crude offtake from Bonny 
terminal in view of the Government’s plan to recommend lower 
gas prices. As part of mitigation to having a single condensate 
evacuation route, the Committee considered options for a 
condensate evacuation pipeline, particularly as the planned 
condensate refinery in the vicinity of the ANOH Project is still at 
initial stages and unlikely to be operational at the early years of 
operations of the ANOH gas plant. 

VII.   Contracts and commercial: The Committee also considered 

progress made with the respective contract packages required 
for the project completion as well as the respective commercial 
agreements such as: 

• Crude Handling & Transportation Agreements; 

• Condensate Off-take Agreement; 

• Gas Sale Agreements; and 

• Other arrangements to as potential de-risking mitigation 

opportunities against the spur line readiness. 

VIII.  Project Risks: The Committee also considered the risks 

associated with the project with focus on: Gas evacuation risk 
(i.e. OB3 and spur pipeline); condensate evacuation risks; project 
schedule risk; community interference risk; and oversaw 
mitigation plans for the identified risks. 

105

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Board Committee reports  | continued

Risk Management and 
HSSE Committee report

4   

Risk Management 
and HSSE Committee  
meetings in 2020

Basil Omiyi

The Board assigned its responsibilities for the oversight of matters 
relating to risk management to the Risk Management and HSSE 
Committee. The role of this Committee in compliance with the 
provisions of the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) Code of 
Corporate Governance and the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance 
2018, is to assist the Board in overseeing the Company’s risk 
management processes, and key business risks including the risk 
appetite, risk profile and risk-reward strategies for the Company  
and as determined by the Board. It also reviews the adequacy and 
effectiveness of risk management and controls, has the oversight of 
the Company’s process for identification of significant risks across its 
business operations and the adequacy of prevention, detection and 
reporting mechanisms. The Committee also carries out a periodic 
review of changes in the economic and business environment, including 
trends and other factors relevant to the Company’s risk profile.

However, following the declaration of Covid-19 illness as a pandemic  
by the World Health Organization and its arrival in Nigeria in the first 
quarter of 2020, Seplat immediately introduced the following measures: 

•  A multi-discipline coronavirus monitoring group (COVIMOG) led by 
the Corporate HSE Manager was set up to monitor developments 
locally, internationally and report to Seplat leadership weekly on 
increasing or relaxing established preventive measures; 

•  An Operations Continuity Team was also set up in the field locations 

led by the Base Managers to implement established preventive 
measures in the field locations and ensure continuity of operations. 
Location Base Managers are members of COVIMOG; 

•  All personnel returning from overseas trip were made to quarantine 

for 14 days and thereafter complete a Covid-19 Illness Risk 
Assessment Form that is reviewed by the Company Medical 
Consultant and can only be allowed into any Seplat location after 
clearance by the Medical Consultant. PCR testing commenced in all 
field locations on the 5 September 2020 with retention of approved 
hospitals for Covid-19 treatment.

The activities of the Risk Management and HSSE Committee are 
summarised below with highlights on certain key activities carried 
out in 2020.

I will be available at the AGM of the Company to be held on 20 May 
2021 in Lagos, Nigeria to discuss with shareholders, or if you are not 
able to meet me there, I can be contacted via the Company Secretary. 

Basil Omiyi  
Chairman, Risk Management and HSSE Committee 
(Independent Non-Executive Director).

106

2020 Members
Basil Omiyi 3, Chairman

Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru 3, Member

Effiong Okon1, Member

Austin Avuru2, Member*

Xavier R. Rolet3, Member*

23 
Jan

23 
Apr

20 
July

19 
Oct

4/4

4/4

4/4

1/1

1/1

–

–

–

–

–

–

1. Executive Director.
2. Non-Executive Director.
3. Independent Non-Executive Director. 
* Mr. Xavier R. Rolet was appointed to the Board and Committee as an Independent 

Non-Executive Director in October 2020 while Mr. Austin Avuru joined the Committee 
as a Non-Executive Director in August 2020. 

In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Committee held four meetings.  
The dates and attendance records for all the meetings can be seen in the table above. 

Membership of the Risk Management and HSSE Committee was 
increased from three members to five members consisting of three 
Independent Non-Executive Directors (one of whom is the 
Committee Chairman), one Non-Executive Director and an Executive 
Director (appointed in accordance with the provisions of NCCG which 
provides in section 11.5.2 that, “Members of the Committee 
responsible for risk management should include EDs and NEDs, a 
majority of whom should be NEDs”). 

During the year, Mr. Avuru (who retired as CEO of the Company in July 
2020) joined the Committee as a Non-Executive Director in August 
2020 while Mr. Rolet was appointed to the Board and Committee as 
an Independent Non-Executive Director in October 2020. 

The Risk Management and HSSE Committee meets at least four 
times a year, and more if necessary. In addition to the quarterly 
meetings held in 2020, the Committee held two emergency meetings 
to review the following incidents: (a) In July 2020 – to deliberate on a 
fire and explosion incident that had occurred on 7 July 2020 at the 
mooring dolphin at Benin River Valve Station (BRVS) located on OML 
40. The incident resulted in the fatalities of seven third-party 
contractors, the families of whom have been compensated; and (b) In 
November 2020 – to review the Gbetiokun Third Party Crude Storage 
vessel, MT Harcourt, laden with 118,000 bbls of crude on which a 
pump exploded on 2 November 2020, rupturing a storage tank and 
causing an oil spill into the Gbetiokun dredged slot. No fire, injury or 
fatality was recorded. 

At the above meetings, appropriate members of the Senior 
Management such as the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial 
Officer, Technical Director, Company Secretary/General Counsel, 
General Manager Operations Support, General Managers Eastern 
and Western Assets, Manager Corporate HSE and Head of Internal 
Controls and Risk Management were in attendance. Specialists with 
appropriate technical expertise are invited to attend and present to 
meetings of the Committee.

The Risk Management and HSSE Committee assists the Board to:

•   review and recommend for approval of the Board, the risk 

management policies and framework, as well as assist the Board in 
its oversight of risk management strategy; 

•   review the adequacy and effectiveness of risk management and 

controls in the Company; 

•   receive reports from, review with, and provide feedback to, senior 
management on the categories of risk that Seplat faces, including 
credit, market and operational risk, the exposures in each category, 
significant concentrations within those risk categories, the metrics 
used to monitor the exposures and management’s views on the 
acceptable and appropriate levels of those risk exposures; 

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020•  evaluate the adequacy of the Risk Management function; and 

review the adequacy and frequency of risk reporting to the Board;

Highlights of the business carried out by the Committee during the 
year were as follows:

•  review Seplat’s credit, market, liquidity and operational risk 

management frameworks, including significant policies, processes 
and systems that senior management uses to manage risk 
exposures, as well as risk measurement methodologies and 
approaches to stress testing;

•  quarterly review of the high risks, new risks on the Enterprise Risk 
Dashboard, associated risk mitigations put in place; the Enterprise 
Risk Register; update on Management Dashboard in respect of both 
Western and Eastern Assets; and risk framework and policy 
deployment in the Company;

•  highlights of high-level technical, operational business activities 
including ongoing capital projects; update on Asset Integrity and 
Process Safety Management, Gas Business Updates, Oil/
Condensate and Gas Production Performance, OPEC Quota and 
2020 Production Forecast, Key Risks Deep Dive into key projects 
delivery, Flares Out, security within the Niger Delta region and 
Amukpe Water Well Contamination, etc.;

•  quarterly update on Covid-19 Management Strategy for Operations 

Continuity; Prevention and Management of Covid-19 spread in 
Seplat Operations and locations;

•  quarterly update on Community Relations operations, alternative 
export routes, and update on crude oil evacuation performance 
forecast; government receivables; etc.;

•  quarterly review of risk notes on the ANOH Gas Project including 

the ANOH Risk Dashboard;

•  review of 2020 Corporate HSSE Business Plan; quarterly update on 
HSE performance across the Company with highlights on LTI-free 
manhours achieved for the period, incident review panel sessions, 
campaign to embed Seplat mandatory safety rules in the Seplat 
personnel; etc.; 

•  quarterly review of the Legal Risk Dashboard and Litigation Matrix 

which highlights the key legal risks and high-profile litigations 
within the Company; and 

•  review of risk papers on the operations of the business such as 
Okpe Contaminated Water wells Investigation; incident at the 
Mooring Dolphin at Benin River Valve Station (BRVS) and the 
explosion on MT Harcourt, both located in OML40, etc.

•  exercise oversight over the processes for the identification and 

assessment of significant risks across Seplat and the adequacy of 
prevention, detection and reporting mechanisms;

•  review the Company’s level of compliance with applicable laws and 
regulatory requirements including those that may impact Seplat’s 
risk profile; and the procedures and controls for any new 
businesses acquired or developed by Seplat;

•  periodically review relevant changes in the economic and business 
environment, including emerging trends, management procedures, 
controls for risk associated with new business and other factors 
relevant to Seplat’s risk profile and those trends which may 
threaten Seplat’s business model, key strategies, future 
performance, solvency and liquidity and make recommendations to 
the Boards as appropriate;

•  receive information from the CFO, Operations Director, Technical 
Director, General Managers Assets, Internal Controls and Risk 
Management Unit, the General Counsel, others from senior 
management, Seplat’s independent auditors, regulators and 
outside experts as appropriate regarding matters related to risk 
management;

•  in consultation with the Audit Committee, review and discuss with 
senior management, at least annually: (a) the key guidelines and 
policies governing Seplat’s significant processes for risk 
assessment and risk management; and (b) Seplat’s major financial 
risk exposures and the steps senior management has taken to 
monitor and control such exposures;

•  review the Company’s policies and procedures for detecting fraud 

and prevention of bribery including review of the Company’s 
whistleblowing policy and procedures;

•  evaluate the effectiveness of Seplat’s policies and systems for 

identifying and managing environmental, health and safety risks 
within its operations;

•  assess the policies and systems within Seplat for ensuring 

compliance with environmental, health and safety regulatory 
requirements; and perform other activities related to these terms of 
reference and as requested by the Board;

•  review and recommend for approval of the Board, at least annually, 

the Company’s Information Technology (IT) data governance 
framework to ensure that IT data risks are adequately mitigated, 
and relevant assets are managed effectively. The framework may 
include: (a) Development of IT strategy and policy; (b) Proactive 
monitoring and management of cyber threats and attacks as well 
as adverse social media incidents; (c) Management of risks relating 
to third-party and outsourced IT service providers; (d) Assessment 
of value delivered to the Company through investments in IT; and (e) 
Periodic independent assurance on the effectiveness of the 
Company’s IT arrangements.

In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Risk Management 
and HSSE Committee held four meetings and two emergency 
meetings, the dates of which are listed above in this report.

107

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Corporate Social Responsibility 
(CSR) Committee report

2020 Members
Lord Mark Malloch-Brown 1, Chairman

Ifueko Omoigui Okauru 1, Member

Madame Nathalie Delapalme 2, Member

Mr. Damian Dodo, SAN 1, Member

Mr. Xavier R. Rolet 3, Member* 

23 
April

16 
July

23 
Oct

3/3

3/3

3/3

3/3

–

–

AB 0/1

1. Independent Non-Executive Director.
2. Non-Executive Director.
3.  Mr. Rolet was appointed to the Board in October 2020 and joined the Committee the 

same month. 

In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Committee held three meetings.  
The dates and attendance records for all the meetings can be seen in the table above.

The CSR Committee comprises five Non-Executive Directors, four of 
whom are Independent. The Committee meets at least three times a 
year and when required, the meetings are attended regularly by the 
Chairman as well as senior management of the Company (such as the 
Chief Executive Officer; Operations Director; Company Secretary/
General Counsel; General Manager, External Affairs & Communication; 
and the General Manager, Operations Support). External advisers may 
also attend at the invitation of the Committee Chairman. 

The CSR Committee helps the Board to:

• review, agree and establish Seplat’s Corporate Strategy to ensure 
that CSR is and remains an integral part of the strategy and its 
implementation in practice and that the Group’s social, 
environmental and economic activities are aligned;

• ensure that there is recognition by all within the Group of the impact 

of its activities upon all stakeholders including shareholders, 
customers, suppliers, employees and the wider community and 
environment; and that those activities are regulated such that they 
are consistent with sustainable business and development, 
conducted in a socially responsible manner and have a positive 
impact on communities;

• oversee the development of strategy and implementation of 

Seplat’s Community Relations Policy, CSR programmes, corporate 
branding efforts and policies on all key areas of CSR including 
standards of business conduct, ethics, charitable activities, 
community initiatives, while ensuring that Seplat maintains a 
cooperative relationship with relevant environmental, health and 
safety agencies (public and private) as well as with community 
representatives;

• develop and support the activities necessary to convert CSR 

Policies into an effective plan for implementation across the Group 
and to agree a programme of specific CSR activities and focus for 
each financial year, supported by appropriate targets and key 
performance indicators;

• develop a comprehensive Environmental Sustainability Policy/

strategy and monitor its total compliance by all parties with respect 
to protecting the sanctity of the environment;

• oversee and ensure compliance with the CSR Policy and review 

performance against agreed targets and have full responsibility for 
all environmental matters in relation to the activities and 
operations  of Seplat;

3 

 CSR Committee 
meetings in 2020

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown

Seplat is committed to sharing its success with its stakeholders. 
The Company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes 
helped thousands of people to achieve better living standards, 
access quality education, enjoy healthier lives, and benefit from 
social and economic opportunities, while driving positive business 
outcomes for Seplat. 

The year was overshadowed by the global pandemic of Covid-19, 
which spread across the world at an alarming rate and quickly 
reached Nigeria. As urgent efforts were being made to contain the 
virus, lockdowns and social distancing measures naturally impacted 
our normal CSR activities, affecting many of our planned or ongoing 
programmes that would usually benefit thousands of people. 

Seplat, amongst other independents in the oil and gas industry, 
made numerous contributions and donations at both Federal and 
State levels, as well as in the communities of our operations. We 
supplied medical consumables and in-patient support systems to 
support medical infrastructure in our host states, Edo, Delta & Imo. 
Wherever possible, we continued to focus on our priorities – to help 
improve healthcare, education, and financial independence in the 
communities in which we operate. 

The CSR Committee, which was constituted in 2014, has oversight of 
Seplat’s Community Relations Policy, practices and procedures, its 
CSR initiatives and review of key issues that impact relations with 
host and other communities. It also advises the Board on broader 
societal related matters in addition to key issues that may impact 
Seplat’s reputation, brand and successful business operations.  
The Committee focuses CSR activities on three strategic areas: 
educational improvements, better healthcare and nurturing local 
entrepreneurship.

You will see below details of the activities carried out during the year. 
Further details of the Company’s CSR activities during 2020 are also 
contained on pages 68-75. 

I will be available at the AGM of the Company to be held on 20 May 
2021 in Lagos, Nigeria to engage with shareholders, or if you are not 
able to meet me there, I can be contacted via the Company Secretary.

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown 
Chairman of the CSR Committee  
(Independent Non-Executive Director)

108

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020• oversee and monitor implementation of the executed Global 

Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) between Seplat and its 
host communities towards ensuring that equity and fairness are 
promoted in the distribution of CSR-related initiatives amongst the 
various communities and that the programmes/activities positively 
impact the lives of all host communities;

• engaged a CSR Consultant, Critical Resource Strategy and Analysis 
Ltd (CR) to commence an assessment of Seplat’s ESG processes  
by analysing relevant materials on aspects of Seplat business 
operations. CR also interviewed members of management, 
Directors and external stakeholders and provided a gap analysis 
report on Seplat’s approach to ESG; 

• ensure that other communities which are impacted by Seplat’s 

operations though not necessarily designated ‘host communities’ 
are given due regard in allocation of CSR initiatives as may 
be necessary;

• successfully deployed the online test for the Seplat JV Pearls Quiz 
Modified Programme with 574 school in participation and 1,764 
students that took the online test;

• successfully deployed the Seplat Teachers Empowerment 

• assess the performance of Seplat with regards to the impact of CSR 

decisions and actions upon employees, communities and other 
third parties. It shall also assess the impact of such decisions and 
actions on the reputation of the Group;

Programme (STEP) with 389 teachers that participated in the online 
qualifying test from 15 public schools and 12 private schools. The 
top 100 teachers will be trained for six months on modules aligned 
with WAEC syllabus; 

• evaluate and oversee on an ongoing basis, the quality and integrity 

of any reporting to shareholders and external stakeholders 
concerning community relations issues and approve the annual 
CSR report for submission to the Board for ratification and 
publication in the Company’s Annual Reports and Accounts;

• ensure that Seplat has a system to identify and evaluate the 

interests of all stakeholders (both internal and external) and review 
the Seplat Stakeholders’ Map and Matrix on a regular basis in order 
to be aware of changes and initiatives required to address 
stakeholders’ interests;

• review the results of any independent audits of the Group’s 

performance in regard to community relations matters, review any 
strategies and action plans developed by management in response 
to issues raised and, where appropriate, make recommendations to 
the Board concerning the same;

• ensure appropriate monitoring tools are put in place to measure the 

• commenced the National Undergraduate Scholarship scheme with 
64,000 applications from the Western Assets and 21,000 from the 
Eastern Assets and 2,000 students qualified to take the test; 

• Initiated the process of adopting the guidelines of ISO 26000 Social 
Responsibility Management System standard implementation in 
Seplat. This is a way of assessing the Company’s commitment to 
sustainability and overall performance; 

• completing the Phase 1 of Seplat’s ESG approach and external 
positioning through gap analysis and recommendations. Also 
completed Phase 2, which focused on designing the right approach 
for Seplat to strengthen its strategic positioning and profile on ESG. 
Phase 3 is currently ongoing which is focused on finalising and 
implementing Seplat’s ESG Strategy. This includes ongoing support 
of implementation of identified core streams, a strategic response 
to climate change and the sustainability narrative for the gas 
business, etc.;

impact of programmes under the CSR Policy;

• continuous strategic stakeholders’ engagement to resolve 

community issues and crisis, capacity development and economic 
empowerment through skills acquisition training programme, 
take-off grants, starter packs, etc.;

• Effective GMOU implementation and partnership management 
through sustainable community development – infrastructure 
development projects, relationship management and support of  
the operations of the Company; 

• successfully submitted the 2019 Sustainability Report to the 
Exchange in compliance with the NSE Directive to all listed 
companies to submit and publish their sustainability reports  
before March of every year.

• review and oversee other related matters and topics in relation to 
CSR as may be assigned to it by the Board from time to time; and

• lay down policy guidelines for charitable donations and CSR of 

Seplat, in line with Seplat’s corporate social strategy and as allowed 
by the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the Company, 
having considered the recommendations of the CSR Committee.

Highlights of business carried out by the CSR Committee during the 
year include:

• implementation of Covid-19 assistance, which was achieved in a 

three-pronged strategy to: (a) support state and local governments 
in the areas of our operations (Edo, Delta/Imo) by donating medical 
consumables to help their capacity to contain the spread of the 
virus and treat infected people; (b) directly assist the host 
communities by providing food and medical consumables to 
enhance personal hygiene and contain the spread of the virus; and 
(c) participate in the IPPG/NNPC intervention initiatives covering 
provision of medical consumables/deployment of logistics and 
in-patient support system/delivery of medical infrastructure across 
the 36 states and the FCT; 

• following the approval of the new CSR Strategy, JV partners (NPDC 
and NAPIMS) buy-in and concurrence were sought and obtained to 
implement the new strategic focus on quality education. Both JV 
partners approved the proposed budgets for implementing the new 
educational programmes in 2020;

• holding several brainstorming sessions and engagements at 

various levels to develop the implementation frameworks which 
included service providers being invited to make presentations of 
their capabilities to enable Seplat identify resources available for 
the programmes;

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Corporate Governance, Compliance 
& Culture Committee report

4 

 Corporate Governance, 
Compliance & Culture 
Committee meetings  
in 2020

Mrs. Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru, MFR

2020 Members
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru 1, Chairman

Michael Alexander (SID)2, Member

Damian Dinshiya Dodo SAN1, Member

20 
Jan

23 
Apr

22 
July

20 
Oct

Madame Nathalie Delapalme, Member3,4

–

4/4

4/4

4/4

3/3

1. Independent Non-Executive Director, retired 31 January 2021.
2. Senior Independent Non-Executive Director, retired 31 January 2021.
3. Non-Executive Director.
4. Appointed Committee member effective 23 April, 2020.
In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Committee held four (4) meetings. 
The meeting dates and attendance records is as shown in the table above.

I am pleased to present to you the Corporate Governance, 
Compliance & Culture Committee (‘CG, Compliance & Culture’) report 
for the 2020 financial year. The CG, Compliance & Culture Committee 
was constituted by the Board on 18 July 2019 with the goal of 
bringing to greater focus of the Board, the Corporate Governance, 
Compliance and Corporate Culture of the Company. The CG, 
Compliance & Culture Committee exists to assist the Board in 
promoting, modelling, institutionalising, and maintaining sound 
ethical culture and good corporate citizenship within the Company. 
The CG, Compliance & Culture Committee intends to achieve this 
goal by working alongside Management in the establishment of 
parameters for measuring corporate governance, compliance, and 
corporate culture within the Company. The Chairman of the Board 
will be available at the AGM of the Company to be held on 20 May 
2021 in Lagos, Nigeria to discuss any of these matters with 
shareholders, or if you are not able to meet him there, he can be 
contacted through the Company Secretary/Chief Governance 
Compliance Officer.

Mrs. Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru, MFR  
Chairman, Corporate Governance, Compliance  
& Culture Committee

The CG, Compliance & Culture Committee is comprised of three (3) 
Independent Non-Executive Directors and one (1) Non-Executive 
Director who have strong leadership experience in the Board 
governance, compliance and human capacity building as well as 
in-depth knowledge of board development, change management, 
management, and Board integration. Details of the terms of reference 
for the CG, Compliance & Culture Committee and a summary of the 
activities carried out during the financial year is as shown below.

In accordance with its terms of reference, the CG, Compliance & 
Culture Committee is established to assist the Board in achieving, 
amongst others, the following: 

• strengthening the Company’s corporate governance and 

compliance ethos, so as to achieve Seplat’s continued survival 
and prosperity; 

• reviewing and assessing all aspects of the Company’s corporate 

governance, compliance, and cultural practices, review the 
effectiveness of relevant governance and compliance issues such 
as – ethics, culture, integrity, transparency, including opportunities 
for improving the governance and compliance framework, 
compliance with all applicable legislations and make necessary 
recommendations to the Board with respect to changes to the 
Company’s governance and compliance practices; 

• reviewing developments in corporate governance space and advise 
the Board periodically with respect to significant developments in 
the law and practice of corporate governance and recommend the 
approach to be taken by the Company in relation to such corporate 
governance standards;

• review all Board-related policies and recommend to the Board such 

changes as it considers appropriate; 

• assessing all aspects of the Company’s culture and ensuring that a 
healthy corporate culture is promoted as vital to the creation and 
protection of long-term value;

• make recommendations to the Board regarding the development of 

the Company’s values, purpose and culture and associated 
behaviours for approval by the Board; 

• periodically recommend and drive correct behaviours by linking the 

Company’s overall purpose to its values; 

• monitor and advise the Board on the implementation of the values, 

purpose, and behaviour within the Company; and

• keep under review the Company’s culture and ensure that it is 
embedded throughout the organisation at every level and in 
all aspects. 

110

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Highlights of business carried out by the CG, Compliance & Culture 
Committee during the year include: 

A.  Corporate Governance, Compliance & Culture (CG, C & C) Targets 
for 2020: The Committee deliberated extensively on the 2020 CG, C & 
C targets for the year 2020. Key focus areas for the financial year 
2020 included the following: 

Corporate Governance
1. 

 Code of Business Conduct (CoBC) – Organise Company-wide 
workshop for employees on the new CoBC and to secure written 
affirmation of understanding and compliance with CoBC by all 
employees including third-party staff; facilitation of CoBC 
trainings for all staff and new employees during induction.

2. 

3. 

4. 

 Board/Management Alignment for organisational growth and 
development particularly as it relates to strategic objectives, 
CEO transition and organisational restructuring.

 Annual Board Governance Evaluation – ensuring that annual 
Board evaluations are held and that identified gaps are 
addressed. 

 Information Technology Data Governance – ensuring that IT 
strategy and policy monitors and manages potential cyber 
threats, carry out risk assessment of third-party outsourced 
service providers and assessment of IT investments versus value 
to the Company. 

(2)  Post Investment Review; 

(3)  After Action Review; 

(4)  Relaunch of Thank God It’s Friday (TGIF); 

(5) 

 Informal collaboration initiatives such as Seplat  
Co-league, Team Mixers; Lessons Learned; 

(6) 

 Defining and measuring quality service delivery via Service 
Level Agreements (SLAs); 

(7)  Strengthening recognition for delivering result; and 

(8)  Decentralisation of decision-making process.

B.  Corporate Governance Policies: In furtherance of the policy 
review process commenced in 2019, the Committee continued 
in-depth review of majority of the Company’s corporate governance 
policies with focus on key changes necessitated by updated laws, 
regulations, and the Company’s ongoing organisational 
restructuring. At the end of the financial year under review, the 
Committee reviewed and secured Board adoption of sixteen (16) 
policies. The policies reviewed/developed by the Committee and 
adopted by the Board in the year under review include:

1.  The Board Charter; 

2.  Code of Business Conduct Policy; 

3.  The Code of Business Conduct; 

5. 

 Environment, Social Governance Policy – ensuring that the 
Company’s reporting of its EGS reporting is in line with the 
regulatory requirements. 

4.  Board Succession Policy; 

5.  Anti-Fraud Policy; 

Compliance
1. 

 Conflict of Interest (COI) – review employees’ and Directors’ 
declarations and ensure identified conflicts are resolved in line 
with the policy. 

2. 

3. 

 Related Party Transactions (RPT) – continuous tracking of 
reduced RPTs to ensure thresholds are not exceeded and 
necessary approvals obtained.

 Share Dealings – ensure that Directors and employees disclose 
share dealings before trading in shares and notification to 
regulators within stipulated timeframe. 

4. 

Inside Information – ensure tracking and automation of insiders. 

5. 

 Third-party Due Diligence – ensure proper due diligence of 
third-party contractors. 

Culture
1. 

 Culture of Care – focus is to embed a culture of care within the 
Company through the following initiatives: 

a.  create a community of oneness amongst employees 

irrespective of cadre or categorisation; 

b.  ensure safety leadership through the slogan ‘everyone returns 

home every day unharmed’; 

c. foster efficient customers’/stakeholders’ management; 

6.  Conflict of Interest for Directors and employees; 

7.  Bullying & Harassment Policy; 

8.  Gifts & Hospitality Policy; 

9.  Whistleblowing Policy; 

10.  Share Dealing Policy; 

11.  Inside Information Policy; 

12.  Electronic Information & Communication Policy; 

13.  Market Sounding Policy; 

14.  Investor Complaints Management Policy; 

15.  Related Party Transaction Policy; and 

16.  Board Representation Policy for IJVs and Other Arrangements. 

In reviewing these policies, emphasis was placed on – the new 
Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance, the UK Code of corporate 
governance and best practices. The review of the Company’s 
corporate governance policies is an ongoing task being carried out  
by the Committee, after which such policies are submitted for 
consideration and adoption by the Board. 

C.  Other Committee deliberations for the year under review 
included: 

d.  conduct regular opinion polls (What Do You Think ‘WDYT’) with 

1. 

results displayed in public places; and

 Organisational restructuring following the resumption of the 
new CEO. 

e.  create open informal networks and strengthening of coaching 

2. 

and mentoring scheme. 

2.  We Deliver on Our Promise: 

 Evaluation of the cultural impact of Covid-19 in the short, 
medium, and long term as well as measures and activities to 
mitigate such impact. 

a.   Customer Orientation. Emphasis here was on moving away 

from Internally Oriented culture to Externally Driven culture. 

b.  Focus was on moving away from Local culture towards 

Professional culture. Some of the activities targeted at driving 
the delivery on promise goal included: 

(1)  Roll out of health-check tool; 

111

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Audit Committee report

4   

Audit Committee 
meetings in 2020

Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN 

In compliance with Section 404(7) of the Companies and Allied 
Matters Act 2020 (CAMA), we the members of the Audit Committee 
have reviewed the financial statements of the Company for the year 
ended 31 December 2020 and reports thereon, and confirm as 
follows:

• the accounting and reporting policies of the Company are in 

compliance with legal requirements and agreed ethical practices;

• the scope and planning of audit requirement were, in our opinion, 

compliant with legal requirements and best practice;

• we have reviewed the findings on management matters, in 

conjunction with the external auditor, and we are satisfied with  
the response of management in dealing with such matters;

• the Company’s systems of accounting and internal controls are  
in compliance with legal requirements and best practice; and

• we have, in response to these matters, made the required 

recommendations to the auditors of the Company.

2020 Members
Chief Anthony Idigbe SAN.,
Chairman and Shareholder Member

Dr. Faruk Umar, Shareholder Member

Sir Sunday N. Nwosu,
KSS Shareholder Member

Ifueko Omoigui Okauru 1, Director Member

Damian Dodo, SAN 1, Director Member

Olivier De Langavant2, Director Member

12 
Mar

21 
Apr

21 
July

21 
Oct

4/4

4/4

4/4

4/4

4/4

4/4

1. Independent Non-Executive Director.
2.  Mr. Michel Hochard retired from the Board and was replaced by  

Mr. Olivier De Langavant as a Director member on the Audit Committee. 

In the financial year ended 31 December 2020, the Committee held four meetings,  
the dates and attendance records which can be seen in the table above.

In addition to the foregoing, we the members of the Audit Committee 
conducted the following business during the year:

• review of the implementation of the Company’s corporate 

governance framework;

• review of the 2020 external audit plan and the 2021 Internal Audit 

plan, including an assessment of the external auditors’ 
independence; and

• review of the proposed 2021 budget and work programme.

Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN 
Chairman of the Audit Committee 

FRC/2015/NBA/00000010414

112

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report

Remuneration Committee 
Chairman’s Annual Statement

Xavier Rolet, KBE

Picture credit: Roger Askew/ Shutterstock

Dear Shareholders, 
As the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee (the 
‘Committee’), I am delighted to present our 2020 Remuneration 
Report, on behalf of the Board which is my first since assuming  
the role. The Remuneration Report covers our proposed 
Remuneration Policy to be put to vote at the 2021 AGM,  
how we intend to implement it for 2021, as well as the 
implementation of our current remuneration policy for  
the year ended 31 December 2020.

I would like to thank my predecessor as Remuneration  
Committee Chair, Mr. Michael Alexander, for his leadership  
and for establishing a Committee with a strong set of policies  
and practices upon which our decisions are able to be made.

Corporate performance highlights and responding to Covid-19 
The Business has continued to operate effectively throughout 2020 
despite the restraints of the Covid-19 pandemic and recent unrest in 
Nigeria. Nigeria has been fortunate in that Covid-19 has had minimal 
direct impact on the corporate environment, in comparison to other 
countries, and there has been little direct impact on Seplat and its 
operations at fields or offices. Nonetheless, Seplat has continued 
to monitor the developments of Covid-19 throughout the year, and  
we have enforced suitable measures to ensure the safety 
of our colleagues. 

This year, the sector has faced an unprecedented period of oil price 
volatility following decrease in demand as a result of Covid-19, as 
well as the OPEC oil production cuts imposed in Nigeria. As a result, 
Seplat production was constrained by approximately 410,000 bbls on 
a gross basis as a result of the OPEC+ production cuts implemented 
in the third quarter of 2020. 

Despite the difficult market place, Seplat performed robustly with 
production well within guidance, a continuing strong balance sheet 
allowing us to repay $100 million of debt and declare a $0.05 interim 
dividend and propose a $0.05 final dividend (to be approved by 
shareholders at the AGM), as well as a significant expansion in 
CAPEX to underpin future revenues with a focus on gas projects with 
the large scale ANOH gas and condensate development on target for 
first gas in 2022.

The key areas of FY20 performance and FY19 comparative 
performance are set out below:

Profit (loss) before tax (US$ million)
Oil production volume (MMbbls)
Gas production (average daily rate, bopd)
2P Reserves (MMboe)
Lost time incident frequency rate (‘LTIF rate’)

2020
(80)
12.3
101
499
nil

2019
293
8.7
131
509
Nil

The resilience of our business has allowed us to respond to the 
economic uncertainty without having to access any government 
Covid-19 related support funds and schemes. We are fortunate to be 
in a position to provide stability and security of pay for our workforce 
through this difficult period and are pleased to say that we have 
continued to pay all colleagues in full. We have not had to furlough 
any of our colleagues or make any redundancies as a result of 
Covid-19. The Company continues to increase base salaries for our 
employees, whilst showing appropriate restraint in freezing salary 
and fees for our Board Directors in 2021. In addition, to recognise the 
conditions faced by Seplat and the whole sector in early 2020, the 
Committee determined that the maximum bonus that could be 
achieved for 2020 was half the normal bonus opportunity. This was 
implemented by ensuring that the maximum payout for each element 

of the bonus scorecard was 50% of maximum opportunity. The 
Committee also reduced the number of shares granted as part of the 
2020 LTIP offering by calculating this using a £1 share price rather 
than the lower Q1 2020 average in line with the operation of policy 
and has the discretionary power to scale back the value at vesting  
if it is out of line with underlying company performance.

Remuneration outcomes for the 2020 financial year
Our remuneration policy is closely aligned to our strategy, the market 
and shareholder interests. However, as set out above the Committee 
determined that payouts from the 2020 annual bonus would be 
capped at 50% of the normal maximum. The Committee calibrated 
the corporate scorecard around targets linked to operational, 
technical, profitability, corporate responsibility and strategic 
progress. The 2018 LTIP award measured our success in maintaining 
and expanding quality reserves, and delivering long- term relative 
shareholder value. 

Assess 
performance 
against targets

Review 
outcomes with 
management 
and other 
committees to 
ensure holistic 
reflection of 
performance

Consider 
outcomes in  
the context  
of the wider 
workforce and 
environment

Use judgement  
to reflect whether 
discretion is 
required, 
considering the 
market and 
shareholder 
interests

In line with this approach, the performance levels set out below 
resulted in reduced 2020 pay outcomes compared to 2019. The  
main remuneration outcomes are set out below:

The Committee reviewed the Company’s performance against the 
bonus scorecard and established that the Company overall had 
performed broadly at Target (30% of maximum payout for 2020).  
On the basis of the enforced OPEC production restrictions and the 
completion of the OB3 pipeline were outside of Management’s 
control, the Committee applied judgement in relation to these 
elements of the bonus scorecard given the impact of these 
unforeseen events. The resulting 2020 annual bonus outcomes were 
30.6% of maximum for the CEO, 30.6% for the CFO and 29.1% for the 
Operations Director. The bonus levels represent a reduction from 
2019 reflecting that a number of objectives were not met in full 
for 2020. 

The determination of the corporate scorecard is cascaded through 
the organisation, affecting not only the Executive Directors, but also 
the bonuses of senior and middle management. The Committee is 
cognisant of the impact on the wider workforce when determining 
outcomes using the process laid out above.

113

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The Committee considered the levels of scorecard achievement 
reflective of the Company’s underlying performance and therefore  
no discretion was exercised in relation to the annual bonus outcome 
to the annual bonus outcome.

The 2018 LTIP awards, for which the performance period ended on 
31 December 2020, will vest in May 2021 I am delighted to announce 
that the Company placed significantly above the upper quartile of  
the TSR comparator group. The level of reserves growth delivered 
between FY17 and FY20 was 4.696%, including growth resulting from 
M&A activity, which resulted in overall LTIP vesting of 86.74%. 60% of 
these awards will be released immediately, with the remaining 40% 
being released in equal instalments after a one and two-year holding 
period. Seplat’s TSR growth of -27% over the three-year period and 
placing between the third and fourth placed company in the 
comparator group was considered a strong outcome given the 
sustained adverse external conditions.

The Committee felt that this achievement, combined with the 
downward adjustment resulting from the application of the reserves 
growth underpin, warranted the 86.74% vesting and therefore no 
discretion was exercised in relation to the LTIP.

Main Remuneration Committee actions and decisions in 2020
We set out below the key Remuneration Committee actions and 
decisions in 2020: 

• Reviewed the remuneration policy against alignment to strategy, 
market best practice and compliance with the Nigerian and UK 
corporate governance codes, and agreed a number of changes, 
mostly in respect of the LTIP.

• Approved the 2020 Annual Bonus targets and reduction in 

opportunity for the Executive Directors and senior management. 
These targets are cascaded throughout the Company to 
ensure alignment. 

• Reviewed and approved the mix of performance measures and 
targets for the 2020 LTIP award. The Committee also approved  
the grant of 2020 LTIP award to the Executive Directors, senior 
management and selected junior management and reviewed 
performance progress of outstanding awards.

• Approved the annual bonus and LTIP performance outcomes  

which were cascaded throughout the Company.

CEO and CFO succession
As disclosed in last year’s report, Mr. Austin Avuru retired as CEO  
on 31 July 2020, and transitioned into his role as a Non-Executive 
Director. Mr. Roger Brown succeeded Mr. Avuru on 1 August 2020, 
transitioning from his role as CFO. We would like to take this 
opportunity to thank Mr. Austin Avuru for his excellent leadership, 
and welcome Mr. Roger Brown to his new role. 

Mr. Austin Avuru’s leaver arrangements are disclosed in full on 
page 133. In summary, the Committee determined that he would  
be entitled to the following:

• Payment of fixed pay (base salary, pension and benefits) for 

remainder of notice period in line with policy;

• One-off loss of office payment of one year’s salary. The payment 
reflects the Company’s shareholder approved policy, Nigerian 
market practice and the special circumstances of the 
CEO’s retirement;

• 2020 annual bonus pro-rated for time served as CEO in the year  

and payout based on performance in line with policy;

• In-flight deferred bonus shares vesting on normal dates without 

proration in line with policy; 

• In-flight LTIP awards continue to vest on the normal vesting dates 
based on achievement of performance targets. The Committee 
determined not to pro-rate the number of awards vesting on the 
basis that Mr Avuru remains an eligible employee under the rules  
of the LTIP as a Non-Executive Director and to reflect the length of 
his tenure as CEO and the corporate successes achieved during 
this period. 

Details of the remuneration for Mr. Austin Avuru’s role going forward 
as a Non-Executive Director is set out on page 130. 

Mr. Roger Brown’s new remuneration arrangements applied from 
1 August 2020, and all elements were paid from this date. We set out 
below the key details of Mr. Roger Brown’s remuneration 
arrangements for his role as CEO. Further details can be found 
on page 130. 

• A base salary of $850,000 (including a residency allowance in line 
with standard Nigerian practice). This is a significant reduction to 
his predecessor’s base salary of $1,130,000. 

• Considered any Executive pay decisions that could be required in 

• In line with policy, maximum annual bonus and LTIP opportunities 

are 150% and 250% of salary, respectively and pension contribution 
has been set at 17% of salary, in line with that provided to the wider 
Nigerian workforce. 

• Benefits are in line with the Company's policy for Nigerian based 

Executive Directors.

To reflect his promotion in the year, Mr Brown received an additional 
LTIP award to reflect the increase in his salary and LTIP opportunity.

Mr. Emeka Onwuka was appointed as CFO from 1 August 2020, with  
a base salary of $705,000 (including housing allowance and 13th 
month payment), and annual bonus and LTIP maximum opportunity 
in line with that provided to his predecessor of 100% and 200% of 
salary, respectively. Mr. Emeka Onwuka’s pension contribution  
has also been set at 17% of salary. Benefits are in line with the 
Company's policy for Nigerian based Executive Directors.

light of the emerging Covid-19 situation.

• Approved the remuneration package for the outgoing CEO,  

incoming CEO and incoming CFO. 

• Considered salary and fee levels for its employees and Directors  
for FY21. Given the current competitive market positioning and in 
order to apply consistent treatment to all senior employees and 
Directors, the Committee determined that no salary increases 
should be awarded to Executive and Non-Executive Directors as 
well as UK senior management. Increases up to a maximum of  
10% were awarded to other employees in Nigeria to cushion the 
effects of  inflation.

• Approved the remuneration for Shebah’s Consultancy 

Service Agreement.

• Reviewing the scale of the completed supplementary activity 

requested by the Board to be carried out by the Finance Committee 
Chairman and the additional one off payment to the Finance 
Committee Chair in compensation for this. 

• Reviewed the framework for termination payments for senior 

management, employees and Non-Executive Directors

114

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Remuneration Policy review
During 2020 and early 2021, the Remuneration Committee conducted a full review of the current Remuneration Policy, as it comes to the  
end of its three-year cycle. The review considered the current policy’s alignment to strategy, market best practice and compliance with  
the Nigerian and UK corporate governance codes, and agreed several changes to the current Policy: 

Proposed change
• Introduce an absolute TSR performance measure in the LTIP.

• 50% of salary increase for the CEO and 40% for other Executive 
Directors to the LTIP, only payable subject to the achievement of 
an exceptional Absolute TSR performance target.

Rationale
• Ensure Executives are appropriately incentivised to implement the 
new Strategy, encompassing M&A activity and renewable priorities

• Appropriate blend of relative and absolute performance with 

increased alignment with shareholder experience.  

• Replace the formulaic operational and technical LTIP underpin 

with a broad underpin, operated as a qualitative review of Seplat’s 
operations by the Remuneration Committee at the end of the 
vesting period, with the application of downwards discretion, 
where appropriate.

• Aligns with typically market practice in the E&P sector. 
• To bring arrangements in line with governance and emerging market 
practice, whilst still ensuring high quality operations are required to 
achieve high levels of vesting.

• Replace the mechanisms by which the grant size is determined 

• Align the remuneration policy with market best practice that has 

(i.e. the £1 share price floor) and the potential reduction of  
vesting when the payout is more than 2.5 times grant value),  
with the following:

• A policy whereby the Remuneration Committee will review any 
share price windfall gains at the end of the vesting period, and 
make any discretionary adjustments, as required, in line with 
market best practice. 

emerged since 2018 UK Code was released. 

• Maintain an approach to deal with short term volatility in share price. 

• Ensure the new management team are fairly remunerated for  
their performance going forward, and their execution of the 
growth strategy.

• Extend the malus and clawback provisions to include all market 

• Aligns with best practice governance.

best practice trigger events.

The proposed new Remuneration Policy will be put to Shareholder vote at the AGM in 2021. 

Operation of the proposed remuneration policy in 2021

• The Committee determined that no salary or fee increases should 

be awarded to Executive and Non-Executive Directors.

• The annual bonus will be operated in line with the remuneration 
policy. Awards at a maximum opportunity of 150% of salary for  
the CEO and 100% for the CFO and the Operations Director. The 
performance conditions will remain a mix of financial, operational 
and strategic metrics, as set out on page 121.

• LTIP awards will be granted in 2021 which vest over three years 
subject to relative and absolute TSR performance and a broad 
underpin, operated as a qualitative review of Seplat’s operations. 
This will ensure a close alignment of payouts for participants with 
the long-term interests of shareholders. The award levels, 
performance targets and weightings will be disclosed in the RNS 
announcement at grant, in line with Investment 
Association guidance.

• Overall total remuneration opportunity will be kept under review.

Engagement with stakeholders
The Committee takes the views of shareholders seriously and these 
views are taken into account in shaping remuneration policy and 
practice. Shareholder views are considered when evaluating and 
setting remuneration strategy. If any shareholders wish to discuss 
the Company’s remuneration arrangements, The Remuneration 
Committee Chairman would be delighted to meet with you. 

The Company operates an extensive range of mechanisms and 
instruments for workforce engagement which cover all employee 
populations, including a Joint Consulting Committee, a workshop on 
remuneration philosophy, the HR quarterly dashboard, visiting 
employees, Town Hall meetings, Seplat’s voice survey and the 
whistleblowing policy. Please see page 119 for details of actions 
undertaken in 2020.

The Board and investor relations team manage and develop Seplat’s 
external relationships with current and prospective investors. The 
Company regularly monitors shareholder reaction and commentary 
regarding its remuneration practices. The main shareholder 
engagement activities take place at our Annual General Meetings 
where we address any questions and provide clarifications on issues 

raised by shareholders. The Board and senior management team  
of the Company are also available to discuss any issues with 
shareholders before the Annual General Meeting. Details of the 
shareholder voting outcomes in respect of the remuneration policy 
and Remuneration Report are presented on page 136.

Additionally, the Board maintains a dialogue with investors outside 
the AGM so as to foster mutual understanding of objectives and to 
gain a balanced view of key issues and concerns of shareholders. 

Summary
I hope that you find the information in this report helpful and I look 
forward to your support at the Company’s AGM. I am always happy to 
hear from the Company’s shareholders and you can contact me via the 
GM Human Resources, Charles Gbandi, if you have any questions on 
this report or more generally in relation to the Company’s remuneration.

Notes 
This report has been prepared taking into account the principles of 
Schedule 8 to the Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups 
(Accounts and Reports) Regulations 2008 as amended, the 
provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code (the ‘Code’) and  
the Listing Rules.

As Seplat is a Nigerian registered company, this report has also been 
prepared taking into account the disclosure requirements under 
Nigerian law, and specifically the Companies and Allied Matters Act 
(‘CAMA’). These rules, consistent with the UK regulations, require the 
remuneration of all Directors, other than the Chief Executive Officer, 
to be approved by shareholders at the AGM. 

The report consists of four sections: 
• the Annual Statement by the Remuneration Committee Chairman 

(pages 113-116); 

• the At a Glance section (pages 116-119); 

• the proposed Remuneration Policy; and 

• the Annual Report on Remuneration which sets out payments made 
to the Directors and details the link between Company performance 
and remuneration for the 2020 financial year (pages 130-136). 

115

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

At a glance

Introduction
In this section, we highlight the performance and remuneration outcomes for the 2020 financial year, how the remuneration policy will be 
implemented in 2021 and the wider employee context.

2020 single total figure of remuneration
The table below sets out the single total figure of remuneration and breakdown for each Executive Director in respect of the 2020 financial year.

Executive Directors

Roger Brown (CEO)

Emeka Onwuka (CFO)

Effiong Okon (Operations Director)

Austin Avuru (Former CEO) 3

Period

Salary1
US$’000

Taxable 
benefits
US$’000

Pension
US$’000

Other
US$’000

Total fixed 
pay
US$’000

Bonus
US$’000

LTIP2
US$’000

Total 
variable pay
US$’000

Total
US$’000

2020

2019

2020
2019

2020

2019
2020

2019

733

643

294
0

719

719
659

1,130

446

 123

116
0

137

174
274

507

117

97

50
0

122

122
112

192

96

0

0
0

39

0
501

0

1,392

 863

460
0

1,018

1,015
1,547

1,829

278

304

90
0

209

315
302

756

528

613

0
0

541

0
869

1,009

806

917

90
0

751

315
1,171

1,765

2,198

1,780

549
0

1,768

1,330
2,717

3,594

1.  Salaries for Executive Directors are set in USD – 2020 salaries were $850,000 for the current CEO inclusive of residency allowance, $705,000 for the CFO and $719,000 for the Operations 

Director inclusive of housing and 13th month allowances. For the former CEO, his 2020 salary was £663,000 and is paid based the July 2014 USD: GBP exchange rate which has been 
used to calculate 2019 and 2020 remuneration. For the current CEO’s service as CFO during 2020, the average 2020 USD: GBP exchange rate of $1.284 has been used where applicable.
2.  The value of the 2018 LTIP awards vesting in May 2021 is shown in 2020 as the performance period ended on 31 December 2020. The estimated value of these awards uses a 2020 Q4 
average share price of $0.80; the actual value will be updated in the 2021 Directors’ Remuneration Report when the awards vest on 2nd May 2021. The value of the 2017 LTIP awards  
that vested in April 2020 is shown in 2019. The value has been restated based on the actual share price on 20 April 2020 ($0.62) and includes dividend equivalents.

3. The CFO joined the Company 3 August 2020. 

Further detail regarding the disclosures in the table above is presented in the Annual Report on Remuneration on page 132.

Variable pay outcomes for 2020
The Remuneration Committee determined both the 2020 annual bonus outcome and the vesting level of the 2018 LTIP awards (where the 
performance ended on 31 December 2020). We set out below a summary of the 2020 annual bonus performance outcomes, together with 
details of the determination of the 2018 LTIP vesting level. Further detail is set out in the Annual Report on Remuneration on page 132.

2020 annual bonus performance assessment
The chart below summarises the 2020 annual bonus performance assessment against the corporate and personal targets for the Executive 
Directors. On the basis of the enforced OPEC production restrictions that were outside of Management’s control, the Committee applied 
judgement to the net Oil production element outcome given the impact of this unforeseen event. The Committee also determined that the 
completion of the OB3 pipeline was outside of Management’s control, and therefore also applied their judgement to this element. As set out  
in the Chairman’s statement, the Committee determined that the bonus opportunity would be capped at 50% of maximum for 2020 and this 
chart reflects that decision:

CEO

CFO

OD

0%

10%

20%

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

100%

Corporate performance

Personal performance

Actual 2020

2018 LTIP awards vesting
The 2018 LTIP awards vest on 2 May 2021. However, the performance period for these awards ended on 31 December 2020 and their value is 
included in the single figure table above.

Seplat’s TSR performance resulted in 100% vesting for this element of the award as the Company was placed above the upper quartile of the 
comparator group. The FY20 audited reserves are 499.4 mmboe which represents a 4.696% increase from the FY17 reserves of 477 mmboe, 
based on including the increase in reserves from the Eland acquisition. Given the audited reserves, including Eland assets, have increased by 
less than 10% then the 13.26% relative TSR vesting level has been reduced in line with the underpin vesting schedule, such that overall 
vesting is 86.74%

TSR performance vs comparator group

Seplat TSR 
growth
-27%

Median TSR 
growth (25% 
vesting)
-67%

Upper quartile 
TSR growth 
(100% vesting)
-37%

Vesting under 
TSR condition
100%

Seplat reserves 
growth between 
FY17 and FY20
4.696%*

Reserves growth 
required to fully 
satisfy underpin
10%

Reduction in 
vesting based on 
the underpin
13.26%

Final vesting 
level
86.74%

2P Reserves growth underpin

*  Reserves include growth resulting from M&A activity.

Summary of application of discretion

116

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020In summary, the Committee is satisfied that the formulaic outcomes described above are a fair reflection of the performance of management 
in the year in the context of the wider business performance. Therefore, no discretion has been applied to the variable pay outcomes.

Executive Director shareholdings
We also set out below how our executive’s shareholdings compare to the requirements of our policy using the 31 December 2020 share price  
of $0.89. In addition, we provide the pre-tax value of the Executive Directors’ unvested or unexercised equity awards.

)
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a
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(

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y
r
a
l
a
s
f
o
%

(

)
y
r
a
l
a
s
f
o
%

(

O
E
C

O
F
C

s
n
o
i
t
a
r
e
p
O

r
o
t
c
e
r
i
D

Shareholding requirement

Value of beneficially owned shares

Value of unvested and/or unexercised awards

Shareholding requirement

Value of beneficially owned shares

Value of unvested and/or unexercised awards

0%

0%

Shareholding requirement

Value of beneficially owned shares

0%

Value of unvested and/or unexercised awards

150%

150%

200%

297%

360%

360%

0%

100%

200%

300%

400%

Remuneration alignment to performance
The following analysis compares CEO’s pay against his remuneration opportunity and Company performance.

Actual pay versus opportunity 
The chart below illustrates how the 2020 total single figure of 
remuneration for the CEO compares to minimum, on-target and 
maximum opportunity in accordance with the remuneration policy 
that applied in the year. 2020 remuneration is below the on-target 
opportunity due to the annual bonus paying out at a relatively low 
level, 86.74% vesting of the 2018 LTIP and as a result of a significant 
proportion of remuneration being based off the current CEO’s 
previous CFO remuneration package.

Actual CEO pay versus total shareholder return (‘TSR’)
The Company feels it is critical that CEO pay reflects the returns 
delivered to shareholders, where TSR is the core performance 
measure chosen to reflect shareholder experience.

In 2020 the Committee took the decision to not award base salary 
and fee increases to Executive and Non-Executive Directors for 2021. 
Annual bonus resulted in 30.6% of maximum payout, reflecting the 
difficult industry conditions throughout 2020. Seplat remains one of 
the sector’s stocks of choice by continuing to perform above the 
upper quartile TSR. This is illustrated in the chart below.

CEO (US$’000)

CEO pay vs. TSR performance

80%

60%

53%

7,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

US$6,001

US$4,938

US$1,063

18%

US$3,504

US$2,125

43%

US$2,125

35%

US$1,328

38%

US$1,538

US$638

18%

US$1,275

26%

US$1,275

21%

US$2,198

US$528
US$278

23%
11%

US$1,538

100%

US$1,538

44%

US$1,538

31%

US$1,538

26%

US$1,392

40%

)

m
u
m
i
x
a
m

f
o
%

(

t
u
o
y
a
p
s
u
n
o
b

l
a
u
n
n
A

40%

20%

0%

Minimum

On-Target

Maximum

Maximum
including share
price appreciation 

Actual

Fixed

Multiple Reporting Periods

 Annual Variable

Share price appreciation

68%

46%

49%

45%

35%

31%

120

100

)
4
1
0
2
o
t
d
e
s
a
b
e
r
(

R
S
T

80

60

40

20

0

3%

0%

0%

0%

3%

0%

0%

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

 Salary increase (%)

 Annual bonus payout (% of maximum)

Seplat TSR

The Committee considered disclosing CEO pay ratios and the Company’s gender pay gap in 2020. However, given the Company’s main 
operations are based in Nigeria whilst the UK workforce consists of significantly fewer than 250 employees, the results would not be 
representative of our business, statistically significant and provide little or no insight to investors. We will reassess this disclosure as  
the Company embeds Eland into its UK operations in future years. 

117

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Implementation of the remuneration policy for 2021
Our Directors’ remuneration policy will be put to Shareholder vote at the AGM on 20 May 2021, and will apply for three years starting on  
20 May 2021. We set out below a summary of our proposed Directors’ remuneration policy and its implementation for 2021. The Committee 
does not expect implementation to deviate from its proposed policy. 

Element

Base salary

 Benefits

Pensions

Annual Bonus

Long Term 
Incentive Plan

2021 operation

There will be no salary increase for Executive Directors, in line with the treatment applied to other senior management. The base 
salaries ($000s) from 1 January 2021 will be: 
• CEO1: $850
• CFO1: $705 
• Operations Director1: $719 

1.  The CEO’s base salary includes a residency allowance, whereas the CFO’s and Operations Director’s base salaries include Housing and 13th month allowance, 

in line with local market practice

No change from 2020 policy on the basis that benefits are dependent on the working location and are either in the form of a cash 
allowance or the actual benefit itself.
The CEO’s pension contributions increased from 15% of salary to 17% of salary on his promotion to CEO and move to Nigeria to align 
with the other Executive Directors and the wider Nigerian workforce. Pensions contributions as % of base salary will be as follows: 
• CEO: 17% 
• CFO: 17% 
• Operations Director: 17% 
Levels of pension contributions for the Executive Directors are in line with those provided to the wider workforce.
No change to the maximum opportunity as % of base salary, as follows:
• CEO: 150% 
• CFO: 100% 
• Operations Director: 100% 
25% of the Executive Directors’ bonus will be deferred into shares and will be released at the end of year 3 subject to continued 
employment. 
The Committee is of the opinion that given the commercial sensitivity arising in relation to the detailed financial, operational and 
strategic targets used for the annual bonus, disclosing precise targets for the bonus plan in advance would not be in the best 
interests of shareholders. The performance measures, achievement against targets and the value of awards made will be  
published at the end of the performance periods, so shareholders can assess the basis for any pay-outs under the annual bonus.
50% of salary increase for the CEO and 40% for other Executive Directors to the LTIP opportunity from 2020: 
• CEO: 300% 
• CFO: 240% 
• Operations Director: 240% 
All awards will vest subject to performance measures (and the Executive Director’s continued employment) at the date of vesting 
after three years and are then subject to a two-year holding period. Malus and clawback will continue to apply to LTIP awards. 
The 2021 LTIP awards will be subject to a Relative TSR performance against a bespoke group of E&P companies, 25% of awards will 
vest for median performance rising on a straight line basis to 100% vesting for upper quartile. The increase in award levels for 2021 
will only be payable subject to the achievement of an exceptional Absolute TSR performance target Full details of the weightings  
and performance targets will be disclosed in the RNS announcement at the time of grant, in line with the Investment 
Association’s expectations.
•  The primary measures will be moderated by a broad underpin, operated as a qualitative review of Seplat’s operations by the 
Remuneration Committee at the end of the vesting period, with the application of downwards discretion, where appropriate.
In addition, to ensure that remuneration outcomes are not unreasonable the Remuneration Committee will review any share price 
windfall gains at the end of the vesting period, and make any discretionary adjustments, as required, in line with market best practice. 

Element

2021 operation

Non-Executive 
Director fees

Shareholding 
requirement

Non-Executive Directors are paid a base fee and additional fees for chairmanship / membership of Committees and Senior 
Independent Directorship. In special circumstances additional Director fees can be paid for Board commissioned specific 
longer-term activities led by the Director. There will be no fee increase for Non-Executive Directors for 2021, in line with the 
Executive Directors and other senior management. Fees are shown on a gross basis i.e. before withholding tax is withheld.
• Chairman: US$1,099
• Board: US$151
• Senior Independent Director: US$214
• Committee Chairmanship: US$42
• Finance Committee Chairmanship1: US$57 
• Committee membership: US$29
• Finance Committee membership1: US$36 

1. Only applicable to those Directors who have additional responsibilities. 
2.  For all Non-Executive Directors except the Chairman actual amount paid in 2020 will depend on the USD: GBP exchange rate in the year. The amounts are 

shown based on the 2020 average exchange rate, other than the Chairman, who is paid at an agreed exchange rate. 

Executive Directors are given five years from the date of the policy implementation or date of appointment, if later, to satisfy the 
following shareholding requirement: 
• CEO: 200% of base salary 
• Other Executive Directors: 150% of base salary 
The Committee determined that the shareholding requirement would continue to apply for one year post cessation of employment 
for the Executive Directors and at 50% of the requirement between one and two years post-cessation.

It is the Committee’s intention that commitments made in line with its current remuneration policy and policies prior to Admission will be honoured.

118

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The Wider Workforce
Employee value proposition
1. Competitive tool rewards
Our policy is to provide industry competitive benefits and various incentive schemes to retain and attract high performing employees, 
carrying out market benchmarking annually to ensure this.

2. Employee engagement
Seplat holds annual meetings of the Employee Forum and conducts an annual online survey to gather employee views on a range of matters.

3. Workforce policies
Seplat operates a number of policies which apply to both our Directors and employees including diversity, conflict of interests and share 
dealing. Detailed description is provided on page 96.

4. Talent development
We support our employee development with individually tailored training programmes. We provide educational assistance and subscriptions 
to various professional bodies. 

Reward structure cascade
The table below illustrates the cascade of our reward structure from Executive Directors to the wider employee population. As shown below, 
senior management and key employees participate in the LTIP and annual bonus schemes. Additionally, pension contribution levels are 
consistent for all employee levels.

Employee level – % of salary

Number of participants
Executive Directors, senior management, 
other key employees
Executive Directors
All employees
All employees
All employees
All employees

Element of pay

CEO

Board

Senior 
management 
(grades 1-4)

Other key 
employees

LTIP
Annual bonus – Deferred shares
Annual bonus – Cash
Pension
Benefits
Salary

300%
37.5%
112.5%
17%

25-35%
240%
n/a
25%
Up to 30%
75%
17% 17% in Nigeria 17% in Nigeria

50-150%
n/a
40-75%

All employees

Employee engagement
The Remuneration Committee oversees compensation of the Chairman, Executive Directors and senior management, having regard to 
remuneration trends across the Company. The Remuneration Committee and management are committed to fair pay practices across  
the organisation. The Company holds annual meetings of the Employee Forum chaired by the General Manager, HR. Additionally, an online  
survey platform exists to gather views of the workforce on a wide range of matters.

When setting remuneration policy and making decisions on remuneration, the Committee references a number of factors including the 
general workforce pay structure, workforce policies, talent development needs and wider stakeholder impact, as illustrated below.

Employee engagement activities in 2020
In 2019 the Board nominated Ifueko Okauru to be the designated Non-Executive Director who will be working with GM HR to engage with 
employees, gather their views and report any feedback to the Board to inform their decision-making.

At the HR Forum the Company presented pay structure for all grades of employees including Executive Directors and addressed questions 
from employees to explain any differences between executive pay and the broader Company pay structure. A summary of the reward 
framework for all grades is presented above. 

Gender pay gap and CEO pay ratio
The Committee considered disclosing CEO pay ratio and the Company’s gender pay gap in 2020. However, given the Company’s main 
operations are based in Nigeria whilst the UK workforce consists of significantly fewer than 250 employees, the results would not be 
representative of our business, statistically significant and provide little or no insight to investors. We will reassess this disclosure as  
the Company embeds Eland into its UK operations in future years. 

119

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Directors’ remuneration policy

Introduction
As we reach the end of the three year cycle of our Remuneration Policy, the Remuneration Committee has conducted a review of the previous 
Directors’ Remuneration Policy (the ‘Policy’) and the changes to its operation adopted in 2018 and deemed that a small number of changes are 
required to ensure that the remuneration policy remains aligned with the strategy, market best practice and compliance with the Nigerian and 
UK corporate governance codes. The new Policy will be put to a shareholder vote at the Annual General Meeting on 20 May 2021 and will apply 
for a period of three years from commencement, unless the Remuneration Committee decide that it is appropriate to put a new Remuneration 
Policy to vote before this date. 

The table below sets out the proposed changes to our Remuneration Policy: 

Element of remuneration

Proposed changes

Base salary
Pension and benefits
Annual bonus
LTIP

No changes proposed
No changes proposed
No changes proposed
• 50% of salary increase for the CEO and 40% for other Executive Directors to the LTIP, only payable subject to the 

achievement of an exceptional Absolute TSR performance target.

• Introduce an absolute TSR performance measure in the LTIP.
• Replace the formulaic operational and technical LTIP underpin with a broad underpin, operated as a qualitative 

review of Seplat’s operations by the Remuneration Committee at the end of the vesting period, with the application 
of downwards discretion, where appropriate.

• Replace the mechanisms by which the grant size is determined (i.e. the £1 share price floor) and the potential 

reduction of vesting when the payout is more than 2.5 times grant value), with the following: 

• A policy whereby the Remuneration Committee will review any share price windfall gains at the end of the vesting 

period, and make any discretionary adjustments, as required, in line with market best practice. 

Malus and Clawback provisions
Shareholding Guidelines
Non-Executive Director fees

Extend the malus and clawback provisions to include all market best practice trigger events
No changes proposed
No changes proposed

Policy summary
The Company’s aim is to attract, retain and motivate the best talent to help execute the business strategy successfully and ensure long-term 
value creation for shareholders in the current challenging environment for the oil and gas industry. Overall remuneration levels have been set 
at a level that is considered by the Committee to be appropriate for the size, nature and aspirations of the business, having taken specialist, 
independent advice where necessary, in order to ensure that the policies and remuneration structure are appropriate for the listed 
company environment.

Our principles of remuneration
The remuneration policy aims to align the interests of the Executive Directors, senior managers and employees to the long-term interests of 
shareholders and aims to support a high performance culture with appropriate reward for superior performance without creating incentives 
that will encourage excessive risk taking or unsustainable Company performance.

The guiding principles behind the setting and implementation of our remuneration policy are as follows: 

Principle

Balanced

Competitive

Equitable

Risk-weighted

Aligned

Explanation

There should be an appropriate balance between fixed and performance-related elements of the 
remuneration package.
Remuneration packages should be competitive, taking into account the level of remuneration paid in respect of 
comparable positions in similar companies within the industry.
There should be an appropriate level of gearing in the package to ensure that Executive Directors receive an 
appropriate proportion of the value created for shareholders whilst taking into account pay and conditions 
throughout the remainder of the Group, where the Company operates and where it is listed.
Remuneration should not raise environmental, social or governance risks by inadvertently motivating irresponsible 
behavior. More generally, the overall remuneration policy should not encourage inappropriate operational risk.
There should be suitable provision of equity awards over the longer term, focusing the Executive Directors on 
delivering the business strategy, allowing them to build a meaningful holding in the Company to further align  
their interests with those of shareholders.

120

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020How our remuneration structure supports the business strategy
In line with our remuneration principles, the Committee will manage incentive plans for the Executive Directors such that they are closely 
linked to the business success, as outlined below:

Maximise production 
and cash flows from 
operated assets

Oil and Gas Production

Profit before Tax 
and cashflow

Commercialise and 
produce gas reserves

Gas development 
projects

Be a highly responsible 
corporate citizen

Health & Safety
High quality governance

Annual Bonus 
To ensure we act as a team, the Committee, on behalf of the Board, sets management a 
challenging annual bonus performance scorecard. 
Whilst many scorecard elements are financial and operational at the Executive Director level, 
 they do contain a number of quality targets (for example, around health and safety and  
corporate governance) designed to ensure we deliver the longer-term goals as a responsible  
and sustainable company. This scorecard is devolved down into the management line with  
an increasing emphasis on the quality and technical component elements needed to sustain 
corporate progress. The content of this annual scorecard will change to mitigate short-term 
pressures and exploit short-term opportunities – all aligned to deliver the longer-term 
strategic objectives.

Successfully develop 
fields Move up 2C 
resources into 2p 
reserves category

Good quality operations

Deliver shareholder 
value

Share price growth and 
dividends (TSR)

LTIP 
Our overall strategic goal is to be a high performing oil & gas company – a shareholder stock of 
choice, within our sector and region. 
To achieve this, we align Executive Director equity awards with the fortunes of the shareholders 
through a relative TSR measure – based on performance against comparable oil & gas 
companies – seeking to attain regular upper quartile results. If we achieve median positioning  
or above over a three-year cycle, management are well rewarded in that year; if we fall below  
the median position, management share the financial disappointment. 
We ensure Executives are appropriately incentivised to implement the new Strategy, 
encompassing M&A activity and renewable priorities, whilst providing outcomes aligned to the 
Shareholder experience through the implementation of an Absolute TSR performance measure. 
This strategic three to five-year reward structure is further underpinned by the need to sustain 
good quality operations, as measured by a qualitative review of Seplat’s operations by the 
Remuneration Committee at the end of the vesting period, with the application of downwards 
discretion, where appropriate.

Alignment to 
shareholder interests

Shareholding requirement 
Success will deliver growing management share-ownership with extended retention periods, 
clawback in case of mis-statement, ability to override formulaic outcomes if they are out of line 
with corporate performance and sizable personal retained shareholdings. This is all working 
towards aligning the Company’s executive leadership with the interests of shareholders.

In addition to supporting strategy, the policy also aligns with the six factors under provision 40 of the UK Corporate Governance Code, as set 
out below:

Description

How the remuneration policy is aligned

Factor

Clarity

Remuneration arrangements should  
be transparent and promote effective 
engagement with shareholders and 
the  workforce.

Simplicity

Remuneration structures should avoid 
complexity and their rationale and  
operation should be easy to understand.

Risk

Remuneration arrangements should  
ensure reputational and other risks from 
excessive rewards, and behavioural risks 
that can arise from target-based incentive 
plans, are identified and mitigated.

Predictability The range of possible values of rewards  

to individual Directors and any other limits  
or discretions should be identified and 
explained at the time of approving  
the policy.

Proportionality The link between individual awards, the 

delivery of strategy and the long term 
performance of the Company should  
be clear. Outcomes should not reward 
poor performance. 
Incentive schemes should drive behaviours 
consistent with company purpose, values 
and strategy. 

Alignment to 
culture

Our Directors’ remuneration policy is based on the remuneration principles (see page 120) 
which are aligned with the strategic priorities. 
The policy is cascaded throughout the organisation as shown on page 119. The Company 
promotes meaningful engagement with its key stakeholders, including shareholders (via 
Annual Report / AGM / investor events where the remuneration structure and main 
pay-related decisions made in the year are communicated) and workforce (via annual 
engagement).
The remuneration structure is based on a simple principle of maximising the long-term 
shareholder value. Key metrics are chosen to fulfil this objective by encouraging strong 
operational and financial performance. 
We are constantly seeking feedback on the remuneration structure and are reviewing  
ways in which it could be simplified. 
The Remuneration Committee constantly monitors potential risks arising from the 
operation of the remuneration arrangements. We closely monitor compensation 
arrangements provided to joiners and leavers, including senior management, to  
ensure that any payments are appropriate and aligned with the remuneration policy.  
The Committee also has discretion to override formulaic outcomes to ensure that any 
payments are reflective of the underlying performance. 
Post-vesting holding period and post-cessation shareholding requirement apply to 
Executive Directors.
The Remuneration Committee actively manages expectations of its key stakeholders in 
relation to the remuneration outcomes. The Company provides in its Annual Report an 
illustration of the potential levels of remuneration receivable by the Executive Directors 
under a number of performance scenarios. As set out on page 124, the Committee has 
discretion to override formulaic outcomes of the incentives to ensure alignment with the 
underlying performance.
The Committee annually reviews the continued appropriateness of the remuneration  
policy to ensure that the structure and performance metrics remain aligned to the  
strategic objectives and long-term value creation. As set out on page 124, the Committee 
has discretion to override formulaic outcomes of the incentives to ensure alignment with  
the underlying performance.
The Board reviewed culture in 2019 and the Committee is comfortable that incentive 
schemes operate in line with the key values of the organisation. Alignment of our incentives 
structure to strategy is illustrated on page 121.

121

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Remuneration policy in practice
In order to deliver upper quartile performance against our oil and gas contemporaries, making Seplat the investor’s sector choice, we need  
to attract and retain highly experienced individuals. This applies not just at the executive level, but also within the management line. This is  
a recruitment and selection function led by the Nomination and Establishment Committee at the highest level, through the CEO, and into 
management levels. To attract and retain the top talent within the industry, we will be paying median to upper quartile packages. We accept 
that this requires strong performance delivery and hence expect to set challenging performance targets.

Our Executive Director remuneration policy which, once approved, will apply for three years starting from 20 May 2021, is outlined below.

Operation

Opportunity

Performance metrics

Changes from 
previous policy

None.

An Executive Director’s base 
salary is set on appointment  
and is aimed to provide a 
competitive base salary  
relative to an appropriate 
benchmark. When determining  
an appropriate level of salary,  
the Committee  considers: 
• remuneration practices within 

the Group; 

• the general performance of 

the Group; 

• salaries within the ranges  
paid by the companies in  
the comparator group used  
for remuneration  
benchmarking1; and 

• the economic environment. 
It is reviewed annually (effective 
from 1 January each year) or 
when there is a change in  
position or responsibility. 
Any subsequent salary  
increases will take into  
account factors such as: 
• the performance of 

the individual; 

• pay and conditions  

throughout the Company; 

• inflation/cost of living in 

jurisdictions where Executive 
Directors reside; and 

• the levels of base salary for 

similar positions with 
comparable status, 
responsibility and skills, in 
organisations of broadly similar 
size and complexity in the 
E&P sector.

Benefits provided to the 
Executive Directors are 
dependent on their 
working location.2 
Benefits can be provided either  
in the form of a cash allowance  
or as the actual benefit itself. 
The Committee recognises  
the need to maintain suitable 
flexibility in the determination  
of benefits that ensures it  
is able to support the  
objective of attracting  
and retaining personnel.
Employer retirement funding  
is determined as a percentage  
of gross basic salary, up to a 
maximum limit of 17%. This  
may be provided either as a 
contribution into a personal 
pension fund or as a 
cash supplement.

Element, purpose  
and link to strategy

Base Salary
Provides a base level of 
remuneration to support 
recruitment and retention 
of Executive Directors 
with the necessary 
experience and expertise 
to deliver the Group’s 
strategy. Set to reflect  
the role, the nature of 
operations and the 
contribution, skills  
and experience of 
the individual.

Benefits
Provides a level of 
benefits consistent with 
local market practice to 
support individuals in 
carrying out their roles.

Pension
Provides a competitive 
level of retirement benefit.

122

N/A

Over the policy period, base salaries 
for current Executive Directors will 
be set at a competitive level within 
the comparator group and will 
increase in line with the increase  
for the general workforce in the 
Company other than in exceptional 
circumstances or when there is  
a change in role or responsibility. 
Base salary increases will be capped 
at 10% p.a. New promotes or recruits 
to the Board may on occasion have 
their salaries set below the targeted 
policy level while they become 
established in their role. In such 
cases salary increases may be 
higher than the increase for the 
general workforce of the Company 
until the target market positioning 
is achieved. 
The Company will set out in the 
section headed implementation of 
remuneration policy in the following 
financial year the salaries for that 
year for each of the Executive 
Directors (see page 135).

N/A

None.

N/A

None.

The maximum opportunity for 
benefits is defined by the nature  
of the benefit itself and the cost of 
providing it. As the cost of providing 
such benefits is dependent on 
market rates and other factors,  
there is no formal maximum 
monetary value.

A maximum pension contribution of 
17% of salary. 
The Company will set out in the 
section headed implementation of 
remuneration policy in the following 
financial year the pension 
contributions for that year for each  
of the Executive Directors (see 
page 135).

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Changes from 
previous policy

None.

See table on 
page 132. 

Element, purpose  
and link to strategy

Annual Bonus
Provides a significant 
incentive to the Executive 
Directors linked to 
achievement in delivering 
goals that are closely 
aligned with the 
Company’s strategy (by 
including performance 
conditions around both 
financial and quality 
targets) and the creation 
of value for shareholders. 
In particular, it supports 
the Company’s objectives 
allowing the setting of 
annual targets based on 
the Company’s’ strategic 
objectives at that time, 
meaning that 
performance conditions 
will change to mitigate 
short-term pressures  
and exploit short-term 
opportunities – all  
aligned to deliver the 
longer-term objective.

Long Term Incentive Plan 
Awards are designed to 
incentivise the Executive 
Directors to maximise 
total shareholder return 
by successfully delivering 
the Company’s objectives 
and to share in the 
resulting increase in total 
shareholder value. If 
targets are reached, 
Executive Directors are 
well rewarded – however 
if we fail, management 
share the financial 
disappointment. The  
use of relative and 
absolute TSR measures 
the success of the 
implementation of the 
Company’s strategy in 
delivering an above 
market level of return and 
strong absolute returns. 
The use of a broad 
underpin, operated as  
a qualitative review of 
Seplat’s operations 
ensures that vesting is 
further underpinned by 
good quality operations. 

Operation

Opportunity

Performance metrics

Maximum bonus opportunity of 
200% of salary. 
Percentage of bonus maximum 
earned for levels of performance: 
• Threshold – 30% 
• Target – 50% 
• Maximum – 100%

Maximum value of 300% of salary 
p.a. based on the market value at  
the date of award set in accordance 
with the rules of the Plan. 
There is no requirement to make  
this level of award every year.

The Committee will determine  
the maximum annual 
participation in the annual  
bonus for each year, which will 
not exceed 200% of salary. 
75% of any bonus earned will  
be paid in cash at the end of 
year one. 
The remaining 25% of any bonus 
earned will be deferred into 
shares (under the rules of the 
LTIP) and paid at the end of 
year three. 
The Company operates an annual 
bonus scorecard of performance 
metrics, incorporating the 
Company’s KPIs as well as 
individual performance targets. 
Details of the performance 
conditions and their level of 
satisfaction for the year being 
reported on will be set out in the 
Annual Report on Remuneration.
The Committee retains discretion 
to make adjustments to the 
amount of annual bonus payable 
resulting from the application of 
the performance measures if it 
believes that the outcomes are 
not a fair and accurate reflection 
of corporate performance.
The Committee may award 
dividend equivalents on deferred 
share awards to the extent that 
these vest based on dividends 
paid between grant and vesting. 

Awards are made annually to 
Executive Directors. The number 
of share awards to be granted 
under the LTIP will be calculated 
based on the average share price 
over the 5 days preceding the 
date of grant. The awards will  
vest at the end of a three-year 
period subject to: 
• the Executive Director’s 

continued employment at  
the date of vesting; and 

• satisfaction of the 

performance conditions. 

To the extent that awards vest, 
the awards will be subject to a 
further two-year holding period.
The Committee retains discretion 
to make adjustments to the 
amount of LTIP vesting payable 
resulting from the application of 
the performance measures if it 
believes that the outcomes are 
not a fair and accurate reflection 
of corporate performance.
The Committee may award 
dividend equivalents on awards to 
the extent that these vest based 
on dividends paid between grant 
and release. 

The Company operates an annual 
bonus scorecard of performance 
metrics, incorporating the 
Company’s KPIs around financial, 
strategic and operational / 
technical conditions as well as 
individual performance targets. 
The Committee is of the opinion 
that given the commercial 
sensitivity arising in relation to  
the detailed financial targets used 
for the annual bonus, disclosing 
precise targets for the bonus  
plan in advance would not be  
in shareholder interests. The 
performance measures, 
achievement against targets  
and the value of awards made  
will be published at the end of  
the performance periods so 
shareholders can assess the  
basis for any pay-outs under  
the annual  bonus. 
Although there are no specific  
plan rules for the annual bonus, 
the Committee has decided to 
adopt malus and clawback 
provisions. The deferred bonus 
shares are awarded under the  
LTIP and so will be subject to the 
malus and clawback provisions 
contained within the LTIP rules.

The committee will determine  
the performance measures, 
weightings and targets for the  
LTIP awards on an annual basis. 
In relation to the Relative TSR 
element, 25% of the award will 
vest for threshold performance, 
increasing on a straight-line  
basis to100% of the award for 
maximum performance. 
In relation to the Absolute  
TSR element, the additional 
opportunity will vest only if the 
performance target is met. 
This level of vesting outcome 
under the primary performance 
conditions will be moderated by  
a broad underpin, operated as  
a qualitative review of Seplat’s 
operations by the Remuneration 
Committee at the end of the 
vesting period, with the 
application of downwards 
discretion, where appropriate.
The Committee may change the 
balance of the measures, or use 
different measures for subsequent 
awards, as appropriate. Details of 
the performance conditions for 
awards made in the year will be  
set out in the Annual Report on 
Remuneration or an RNS 
announcement at the time of  
grant and for future awards in the 
statement of implementation of 
remuneration policy in the future 
financial year. 
The LTIP contains malus and 
clawback provisions.

1  Salaries are set compared to a peer group of international oil and gas companies.
2   Benefits may include Life Assurance, Employee Compensation Scheme, Personal Accident Assurance, Housing allowance / housing costs, Long Term Disability Assurance, Private 
Healthcare, Gym/Club Membership, Logistics support, Car and driver, Phone Allowance / Mobile Phone, Children’s Education allowance, Rest and Recreation allowance, Residence 
Allowance, In country allowance and 13th month allowance.

123

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Element, purpose and link 
to strategy

Operation

Opportunity

Performance metrics

Changes from 
previous policy

None.

N/A

In general the level of fee increase  
for the Non-Executive Directors will 
be set taking account of any change  
in responsibility and will take into 
account the general rise in salaries 
across the workforce. The Company 
will pay reasonable expenses 
incurred by the Chairman and 
Non-Executive Directors.

Non-Executive Director 
Fees
Provides a level of fees to 
support recruitment and 
retention of Non-Executive 
Directors with the 
necessary experience  
to advise and assist  
with establishing and 
monitoring the Group’s 
strategic objectives.

Shareholding  
requirement

The Board as a whole is 
responsible for setting  
the remuneration of the 
Non-Executive Directors. 
Non-Executive Directors are  
paid a base fee and additional 
fees for chairmanship/
membership of Committees/
Senior Independent Directorship.
Fees are reviewed annually  
based on equivalent roles in UK 
listed companies taking account 
of the Company’s location and 
sector. Non-Executive Directors 
do not participate in any variable 
remuneration arrangements.
To ensure that Executive 
Directors’ interests are aligned 
with those of shareholders  
over a longer time horizon the 
Committee operates formal 
shareholder guidelines to 
encourage long-term  
share ownership by the 
Executive Directors.

N/A

None. 

CEO: 200% of annual base salary 
Other Executive Directors: 150% of 
annual base salary Executive 
Directors will be given five years from 
the date of the previous (2018) policy 
implementation, or date of 
appointment if later, to satisfy the 
shareholding requirement.
The shareholding requirement 
continues to apply for one year post 
cessation of employment for the 
Executive Directors and at 50% of  
the requirement between for an 
additional year. 

It is the Committee’s intention that commitments made in line with its current and previous remuneration policies and policies prior to 
Admission will be honoured. 

The Committee is satisfied that its approach to the Directors’ remuneration is designed to promote the long-term success of the Company.

Performance Measures
Please see the ‘How our remuneration structure supports the business strategy’ section for information on why the LTIP performance 
measures have been chosen and how the annual bonus scorecard will be determined by the Committee each year.

Discretion
The Committee retains discretion, consistent with market practice, in a number of regards to the operation and administration of the  
Annual Bonus and LTIP (the LTIP being operated in general terms according to the rules). These include, but are not limited to, the following:

• the participants;

• the timing of an award;

• the size of an award;

• the determination of vesting and/or payout;

• discretion required when dealing with a change of control or restructuring of the Group;

• determination of the treatment of leavers based on the rules of the plan and the appropriate treatment chosen;

• adjustments required in certain circumstances (e.g. rights issues, corporate restructuring events and special dividends); and

• the annual review of performance measures and weighting for the Annual Bonus and LTIP.

These discretions, which in certain circumstances can be operated in both an upward and downward manner, are consistent with market 
practice and are necessary for the proper and fair operation of the plans so that they achieve their original purpose. The Committee retains 
discretion to make adjustments to the amount of incentives payable (following approval of this policy) resulting from the application of the 
performance measures if it believes that the outcomes are not a fair and accurate reflection of corporate performance. It is the Committee’s 
policy that there should be no element of reward for failure and any upward discretion will only be applied in exceptional circumstances. 

Differences in policy from the wider employee population
The Group aims to provide a remuneration package for all employees that is market competitive and operates the same core structure as for 
the Executive Directors. The Executive Directors’ annual scorecard is devolved down into the management line with an increasing emphasis 
on the quality and technical component elements needed to sustain corporate progress. 

The Company continues to cascade the LTIP to management grades below Executive Directors, ensuring a consistent reward framework.  
The Group also operates variable pay plans on a discretionary basis, with pension provision offered to all Executives and employees.

124

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Recruitment policy
The Company’s principle is that the remuneration of any new recruit will be assessed in line with the same principles as for the Executive 
Directors, as set out in the remuneration policy table on pages 125. The Committee is mindful that it wishes to avoid paying more than it 
considers necessary to attract candidates of the appropriate calibre and experience needed for the role from the market in which the  
Company competes. As a result, the Committee will have regard to guidelines and shareholder sentiment regarding one-off or enhanced 
short-term or long-term incentive payments made on recruitment and the appropriateness of any performance measures associated  
with an award.

The Company’s detailed policy when setting remuneration for the appointment of new Directors is summarised in the table below:

Element of remuneration

Recruitment policy

Salary

Benefits
Pension

Annual Bonus

LTIP

Maximum variable pay 
(incentive opportunity)
Sign-on compensation

“Buy Out”’ Of incentives 
forfeited on cessation of 
employment

It is the Committee’s intention that commitments made in line with its current and previous remuneration policies and policies prior to 

The Committee is satisfied that its approach to the Directors’ remuneration is designed to promote the long-term success of the Company.

Please see the ‘How our remuneration structure supports the business strategy’ section for information on why the LTIP performance 

measures have been chosen and how the annual bonus scorecard will be determined by the Committee each year.

Relocation

The Committee retains discretion, consistent with market practice, in a number of regards to the operation and administration of the  

Annual Bonus and LTIP (the LTIP being operated in general terms according to the rules). These include, but are not limited to, the following:

Salary will be set in line with the policy for existing Executive Directors. New promotes and recruits to the Board may on  
occasion have their salaries set below the targeted policy level while they become established in their role. In such cases  
salary increases may be higher than the increase for the general workforce of the Company until the target market  
positioning is achieved.
The standard benefits package (depending on the local market) will apply.
The maximum employer contribution will be set in line with the Company’s policy for existing Executive Directors which is 
also aligned with the wider workforce.
Maximum annual participation will be set in line with the Company’s policy for existing Executive Directors and will not 
exceed 200% of salary.
Maximum annual participation will be set in line with the Company’s policy for existing Executive Directors and will not 
exceed 300% of salary.
In the year of recruitment the maximum variable pay will be 500% of salary. For the avoidance of doubt this excludes the 
value of any “Buy Out” of incentives forfeited on cessation of previous employment.
The Committee’s policy is not to provide sign-on compensation.

The Committee’s policy is not to provide buy outs as a matter of course. 
However, should the Committee determine that the individual circumstances of recruitment justified the provision of a  
Buy Out, the equivalent value of any incentives that will be forfeited on cessation of an Executive Director’s previous 
employment will be calculated taking into account the following: 
• the proportion of the performance period completed on the date of the Executive Director’s cessation of employment; 
• the performance conditions attached to the vesting of these incentives and the likelihood of them being satisfied; and 
• any other terms and conditions having a material effect on their value (‘lapsed value’). 
The Committee may then award up to the same expected value as the lapsed value, where possible, under the Company’s 
incentive plans. To the extent that it was not possible or practical to provide the Buy Out within the terms of the Company’s 
existing incentive plans, a bespoke arrangement would be used.
In instances where the new Executive Director is relocated from one work-base to another, the Company will provide 
ongoing compensation to reflect the cost of relocation for the executive in cases where they are expected to spend 
significant time away from their country of domicile. 
The level of the relocation package will be assessed on a case by case basis but will take into consideration any cost  
of living differences and/or any other benefits/allowances which are standard market practice in the host location.

The Committee’s policy is to align internal promotes to the Board with the remuneration policy from the date of promotion. However, new 
promotes to the Board may on occasion have their salaries set below the targeted policy level while they become established in their role.

In such cases salary increases may be higher than the increase for the general workforce of the Company until the target market positioning 
is achieved. In exceptional circumstances, where contractual benefits are forfeited on promotion, an equivalent cash payment can be made 
to compensate the value of contractual arrangements foregone. Any such payment will be made at the Remuneration Committee’s discretion 
on a fair and reasonable basis.

The Company’s policy when setting fees for the appointment of new Non-Executive Directors is to apply the policy which applies to current 
Non-Executive Directors.

Opportunity

Performance metrics

In general the level of fee increase  

N/A

Changes from 

previous policy

None.

Element, purpose and link 

to strategy

Operation

Non-Executive Director 

Fees

Provides a level of fees to 

support recruitment and 

The Board as a whole is 

responsible for setting  

the remuneration of the 

Non-Executive Directors. 

retention of Non-Executive 

Non-Executive Directors are  

Directors with the 

necessary experience  

to advise and assist  

with establishing and 

monitoring the Group’s 

strategic objectives.

paid a base fee and additional 

fees for chairmanship/

membership of Committees/

Senior Independent Directorship.

Fees are reviewed annually  

based on equivalent roles in UK 

listed companies taking account 

of the Company’s location and 

sector. Non-Executive Directors 

do not participate in any variable 

remuneration arrangements.

with those of shareholders  

over a longer time horizon the 

Committee operates formal 

shareholder guidelines to 

encourage long-term  

share ownership by the 

Executive Directors.

for the Non-Executive Directors will 

be set taking account of any change  

in responsibility and will take into 

account the general rise in salaries 

across the workforce. The Company 

will pay reasonable expenses 

incurred by the Chairman and 

Non-Executive Directors.

annual base salary Executive 

Directors will be given five years from 

the date of the previous (2018) policy 

implementation, or date of 

appointment if later, to satisfy the 

shareholding requirement.

The shareholding requirement 

continues to apply for one year post 

cessation of employment for the 

Executive Directors and at 50% of  

the requirement between for an 

additional year. 

Shareholding  

requirement

To ensure that Executive 

CEO: 200% of annual base salary 

N/A

Directors’ interests are aligned 

Other Executive Directors: 150% of 

None. 

Admission will be honoured. 

Performance Measures

Discretion

• the participants;

• the timing of an award;

• the size of an award;

• the determination of vesting and/or payout;

• discretion required when dealing with a change of control or restructuring of the Group;

• determination of the treatment of leavers based on the rules of the plan and the appropriate treatment chosen;

• adjustments required in certain circumstances (e.g. rights issues, corporate restructuring events and special dividends); and

• the annual review of performance measures and weighting for the Annual Bonus and LTIP.

These discretions, which in certain circumstances can be operated in both an upward and downward manner, are consistent with market 

practice and are necessary for the proper and fair operation of the plans so that they achieve their original purpose. The Committee retains 

discretion to make adjustments to the amount of incentives payable (following approval of this policy) resulting from the application of the 

performance measures if it believes that the outcomes are not a fair and accurate reflection of corporate performance. It is the Committee’s 

policy that there should be no element of reward for failure and any upward discretion will only be applied in exceptional circumstances. 

Differences in policy from the wider employee population

The Group aims to provide a remuneration package for all employees that is market competitive and operates the same core structure as for 

the Executive Directors. The Executive Directors’ annual scorecard is devolved down into the management line with an increasing emphasis 

on the quality and technical component elements needed to sustain corporate progress. 

The Company continues to cascade the LTIP to management grades below Executive Directors, ensuring a consistent reward framework.  

The Group also operates variable pay plans on a discretionary basis, with pension provision offered to all Executives and employees.

125

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Service Contract and letter of appointment
The Committee’s policy for setting notice periods is that a 12-month period will apply for Executive Directors unless the Committee 
determines otherwise.

The Non-Executive Directors of the Company do not have service contracts. The Non-Executive Directors are appointed by letters of 
appointment, which are kept at Seplat’s registered office along with Executive Director service contracts.

As required by Nigerian law, the Company follows the provisions set out in its Memorandum and Articles of Association and annually places 
one-third of its Independent Non-Executive Directors for re-election.

Executive Directors
Roger Brown
Emeka Onwuka
Effiong Okon

Nature of 
Date of service 
contract
contract 
Rolling
20 May 2013
3 August 2020
Rolling
1 February 2018 Rolling

Non-Executive Directors
A.B.C. Orjiako

Date of letter of 
appointment 
1 June 2017

Michael Alexander

6 June 2018

Michel Hochard1

Basil Omiyi

Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru 30 June 2014

Charles Okeahalam

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown 6 June 2018

Nature of 
contract
Fixed term to 
31 May 2020
Fixed term 
to 2021 AGM
Rolling

14 December 
2009

1 June 2017

1 June 2017

Fixed term to 
2020 AGM
Fixed term to 
2022 AGM 
Fixed term to 
2020 AGM
Fixed term to 
2021 AGM 
Fixed term to 
2022 AGM 
Fixed term to 
2022 AGM
Fixed Term 
1 August 2020
28 January 2020 Fixed Term
1 October 2020 Fixed Term to 

30 June 2014

18 July 2019

Damian Dodo

Nathalie Delapalme

Austin Avuru
Olivier de Langavant
Arumah Oteh

Notice period 
from Company
12 months
12 months
12 months

Notice period 
from Director
12 months
12 months
12 months

Notice period 
from Company
12 months

Notice period 
from Director
12 months

Compensation provisions for early termination

Payment in lieu of notice equal to 12 months’ salary and 
benefits, including any payments accrued at the date 
of termination.

Compensation provisions for early termination
None.

6 months

6 months

6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

6 months
6 months
6 months

6 months
6 months
6 months

None.
None.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

6 months

6 months

6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

6 months

6 months

6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

6 months

6 months

6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

6 months

6 months

6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

6 months

6 months

6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

12 months 
12 months 
6 months 

12 months 
12 months 
6 months 

None
None.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

Mr. Xavier R. Rolet

1 October 2020 Fixed Term to 

6 months 

6 months 

6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

next AGM

Next AGM

Illustrations of the application of the remuneration policy 
The charts below illustrate the remuneration that would be paid to each of the Executive Directors, based on salaries at the start of  
financial year 2021, under four different performance scenarios: (i) Minimum; (ii) On-target; (iii) Maximum; and (iv) Maximum plus 50% share 
price appreciation over three years on the LTIP. The elements of remuneration have been categorised into three components: (i) Fixed; (ii) 
Annual Variable; and (iii) Multiple Reporting Periods.

Element

Fixed

Annual Variable

Multiple Reporting 
Periods
Share price 
appreciation

Description

Salary, benefits and 
pension
Annual bonus (including 
deferred shares)
Award under the Long Term 
Incentive Plan
N/A

Minimum

Included

On-target

Included

Maximum

Included

No annual variable

50% of Maximum

No multiple year variable 62.5%1 of the maximum 

N/A

award
N/A

100% of maximum 
bonus
100% of the maximum 
award
N/A

Maximum plus 50% 
share price 
appreciation

Included

100% of maximum 
bonus
100% of the maximum 
award
50% share price 
appreciation over three 
years applied to 100% 
of the maximum 
LTIP award

1.  On-target % pay-out is calculated as the mid-point between threshold vesting of 25% (for threshold performance) and the maximum vesting of 100% (for maximum performance).

126

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020CEO (US$’000)

CFO (US$’000)

7,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

US$6,391

US$1,275

20%

US$5,116

US$3,523

US$2,550

50%

US$2,550

40%

US$1,594

45%

US$1,291

US$638

18%

US$1,275

25%

US$1,275

20%

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

US$4,184

US$846

21%

US$3,338

US$2,352

US$1,692

51%

US$1,692

40%

US$1,058

45%

1,000

US$941

US$353

15%

US$705

21%

US$705

17%

US$1,291

100%

US$1,291

37%

US$1,291

25%

US$1,291

20%

US$941

100%

US$941

40%

US$941

28%

US$941

22%

Minimum

On-Target

Maximum

Maximum
including share
price appreciation 

0

Minimum

On-Target

Maximum

Maximum
including share
price appreciation 

Operations Director (US$’000)

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

US$4,286

US$863

20%

US$3,423

US$2,417

US$1,726

50%

US$1,726

40%

US$1,079

45%

US$978

US$360

15%

US$719

21%

US$719

17%

US$978

100%

US$978

40%

US$978

29%

US$978

23%

Minimum

On-Target

Maximum

Maximum
including share
price appreciation 

Fixed

Multiple Reporting Periods

 Annual Variable

Share price appreciation

The following table sets out the key aspects of policy used to populate the charts above.

Role
CEO
CFO
Operations Director

2021 salary 
(US$’000)
850
705
719

Benefits
296
116
137

Annual Bonus 
(% salary)
150%
100%
100%

LTIP 
(% salary)1
300%
240%
240%

Pension 
(% salary)
17%
17%
17%

In accordance with the regulations, dividend equivalents have not been added to deferred share bonus and LTIP share awards.

Payment for loss of office policy 
When determining any loss of office payment for a departing individual the Committee will always seek to minimise the cost to the Company 
whilst seeking to reflect the circumstances in place at the time. The Committee retains overriding discretion to make loss of office payments 
appropriate to the circumstances and applying the overriding principle that there should be no element of reward for failure. 

Under Nigerian law, any payment for loss of office to Directors must be approved by shareholders at the AGM. The table on the following page 
sets out, for each element of total remuneration, the Company’s policy on payment for loss of office in respect of the Executive Directors and 
any discretion available to the Committee. In any year where a Director has received payment for loss of office the Company will ask 
shareholders to vote on that payment on a retrospective basis.

127

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Remuneration Element Treatment on cessation of employment

Salary

Benefits

Pension

Annual Bonus

Annual Bonus 
(deferred shares)

In the event of termination by the Company, there will be no compensation for loss of office due to misconduct or normal resignation. 
In other circumstances, Executive Directors may be entitled to receive compensation for loss of office which will be a maximum of 
12 months salary. 
Salary will be paid over the notice period. The Company has discretion to make a lump sum payment on termination of the salary 
payable during the notice period. In all cases the Company will seek to mitigate any payments due.
Benefits will normally be provided over the notice period. The Company has discretion to make a lump sum payment on termination 
equal to the value of the benefits payable during the notice period. In all cases the Company will seek to mitigate any payments due
Company pension contributions will normally be provided over the notice period. The Company has discretion to make a lump sum 
payment on termination equal to the value of the Company pension contributions, or equivalents, during the notice period. In all 
cases the Company will seek to mitigate any payments due. 
Good leaver reason 
Performance conditions will be measured at 
the normal measurement date. The bonus will 
normally be pro-rated for the period worked 
during the financial year and paid entirely 
in cash.
Good leaver reason 
All subsisting deferred share awards will vest 
in full on the normal vesting dates.

Other reason 
No bonus payable for year of cessation.

Discretion
The Committee has the following elements of discretion: 
• to determine that an executive is a good leaver; 
• whether to pro-rate the maximum number of shares to 

Other reason
Lapse of any 
unvested deferred 
share awards.

LTIP

Good leaver reason
Pro-rated to time and performance in respect 
of each subsisting LTIP award with awards 
vesting on the normal vesting dates.

Other reason
Lapse of any 
unvested LTIP 
awards.

the time from the date of award to the date of cessation. 
The Committee’s policy is generally to not pro-rate to 
time. The Committee will determine whether to pro-rate 
based on the circumstances of the Executive Director’s 
departure; and 

• whether to deliver awards at the time of cessation or at 
the normal vesting date. The Committee’s policy is to 
deliver awards at the normal vesting date.

Discretion
The Committee has the following elements of discretion: 
• to determine that an executive is a good leaver; 
• to measure performance (or any other condition) over the 
original performance period or at the date of cessation; 
• whether to pro-rate the maximum number of shares to 
the time from the date of award to the date of cessation 
(rounded up to the nearest month). The Committee’s 
policy is generally to pro-rate to time; and 

• whether to deliver awards at the time of cessation or at 
the normal vesting date. The Committee’s policy is to 
deliver awards at the normal vesting date.

Other contractual 
obligations

Compensation for forfeited remuneration: 
• On termination, any “buy out” awards would normally lapse. 
• Other benefits e.g. relocation allowances, international mobility benefits and expenses: 
• Will depend on what has been agreed on appointment; the Committee would not expect any or all of these elements of pay to 

form part of any termination arrangement.

• The Committee has discretion to make payments in respect of these elements of remuneration, provided the termination is not 

as a result of poor performance.

A good leaver reason is defined as cessation in the following circumstances: 

• death; 

• ill-health; 

• redundancy;

• injury or disability; 

• retirement with the consent of the Company;

• employing company ceasing to be a Group company; 

• transfer of employment to a company which is not a Group company; and 

• at the discretion of the Committee (as described above). 

Cessation of employment in circumstances other than for ‘good leaver’ reasons is classified as cessation for ‘other reasons’ as set out in the 
table above.

128

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Change of control 
The Committee’s policy on the payment and vesting of incentives on a change of control is summarised below:

Name of Incentive plan

Change of control

Discretion

Annual Bonus (cash)

Annual Bonus (deferred 
shares)
LTIP

Performance conditions will be 
measured at the date of the change 
of control. The bonus will normally 
be pro-rated to the date of the 
change of control.

Subsisting deferred share awards 
will vest on a change of control.
The number of shares subject to 
subsisting LTIP awards on a change 
of control will be pro-rated to time 
and performance.

The Committee retains discretion to continue the operation to the end of the bonus year. 
The Committee will only waive pro-rating in exceptional circumstances where it views 
the change of control as an event which has provided a material enhanced value to 
shareholders which will be fully explained to shareholders. In all cases the performance 
conditions must be satisfied.
The Committee retains the discretion to pro-rate to time.

 The Committee has discretion: 
• to determine whether to pro-rate the award to time. The Committee will only waive 
pro-rating in exceptional circumstances where it views the change of control as an 
event which has provided a material enhanced value to shareholders which will be 
fully explained to shareholders. In all cases the performance conditions must be 
satisfied; and 

• to determine to pay cash in lieu of shares.

Malus and Clawback 
Malus provisions apply to the Annual bonus and LTIP. Malus is the reduction of a payout or the number of shares under an award (including  
to zero) as a result of the occurrence of one or more circumstances as set out below. 

Clawback is the recovery of cash payments made or vested share awards as a result of the occurrence of one or more circumstances as  
set out below. Clawback may apply to all or part of a participant’s payment under the LTIP or annual bonus and may be effected, among  
other means, by requiring the transfer of shares, payment of cash or reduction of awards or bonuses. 

The malus and clawback trigger events are set out below: 

• discovery of a material misstatement resulting in an adjustment in the audited accounts of the Group or any Group company;

• the assessment of any performance condition, or condition in respect of a payment or award under the annual bonus or LTIP, that was  

based on error, inaccurate or misleading information;

• the discovery that any information used to determine the annual bonus or the LTIP award was based on error, inaccurate or 

misleading information;

• action or conduct of a participant which amounts to fraud or gross misconduct;

• event or behaviour of a participant leading to the censure of a Group company by a regulatory authority or have had a significant  

detrimental impact on the reputation of any Group company, provided that the Board is satisfied that the relevant participant was 
responsible for the censure or reputational damage and that the censure or reputational damage is attributable to the participant; 

• a material failure or risk management; and

• corporate failure (to the extent the Group company believes such a trigger would be broader than those already in use).

The following table sets out the periods during which malus and clawback may be effected by the Committee:

Malus

At any time prior to the payment / vesting date of deferred shares.

Annual Bonus

Long Term Incentive Plan (“LTIP”)

At any time prior to the vesting date.

Clawback

Two years from the date of payment of cash bonus or vesting of the deferred share element.

Five years from the date of grant.

Statement of conditions elsewhere in the Company 
The Committee, along with setting the remuneration packages of the Executive Directors, also has purview over the reward arrangements of 
the Senior Management Team, which consists of 30 additional employees. The Committee did not specifically take employee views into 
consideration when setting Policy.

When considering the salary movements on a year-on-year basis for the Senior Management Team, the Committee will take account of salary 
increases across the general employee base. Executive Director annual bonus targets are also devolved down into the management line with 
an increasing emphasis on the quality and technical component elements needed to sustain corporate progress. In addition, the Company 
continues to cascade the LTIP to management grades below Executive Directors, ensuring a consistent reward framework, as set out in more 
detail in the At A Glance section on page 116.

Consideration of shareholder views 
The Committee takes the views of shareholders seriously and these views are taken into account in shaping remuneration policy and practice. 
Shareholder views are considered when evaluating and setting remuneration strategy. If any shareholders wish to discuss the Company’s 
remuneration arrangements, The Remuneration Committee Chairman would be delighted to meet with you. 

129

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Annual report on remuneration

Single total figure of remuneration
Executive Directors
The table below sets out the single total figure of remuneration and breakdown for each Executive Director in respect of the 2020 financial 
year, on a receivable basis in accordance with the policy as approved by shareholders. Comparative figures for the 2019 financial year have 
also been provided.

Executive Directors

Roger Brown (CEO)

Emeka Onwuka (CFO)

Period

2020

2019

2020

2019

Effiong Okon (Operations Director) 2020

Austin Avuru (Former CEO) 3

2019

2020

2019

Salary1
$’000

Taxable 
benefits
$’000

Pension
$’000

733

643

294

0

719

719

659

1,130

446

 123

116

0

137

174

274

507

117

97

50

0

122

122

112

192

Other
$’000

Total fixed 
pay
$’000

96

1,392

0

0

0

39

0

501

0

 863

460

0

1,018

1,015

1,547

1,829

Bonus
$’000

278

304

90

0

209

315

302

756

Total 
variable 
pay
$’000

806

917

90

0

751

315

1,171

1,765

LTIP2
$’000

528

613

0

0

541

0

869

1,009

Total
$’000

2,198

1,780

549

0

1,768

1,330

2,717

3,594

1.  Salaries for Executive Directors are set in USD – 2020 salaries were $850,000 for the current CEO inclusive of residency allowance, $705,000 

 for the CFO and $719,000 for the Operations Director inclusive of housing and 13th month allowances. For the former CEO, his 2020 salary was £663,000 and is paid based the July 2014 
USD: GBP exchange rate which has been used to calculate 2019 and 2020 remuneration. For the current CEO’s service as CFO during 2020, the average 2020 USD: GBP exchange rate of 
1.284 has been used where applicable.

2.  The taxable benefits for each Executive Director comprise those which are quantifiable.
3.  Bonus relates to the year it was earned and includes the deferred proportion of the award.
4.  The value of the 2018 LTIP awards vesting in May 2021 is shown in 2020 as the performance period ended on 31 December 2020. The estimated value of these awards uses a 2020 Q4 
average share price of $0.80; the actual value will be updated in the 2021 Directors’ Remuneration Report when the awards vest on 2 May2021. The value of the 2017 LTIP awards that 
vested in April 2020 is shown in 2019. The value has been restated based on the actual share price on 20 April 2020 ($0.62) and includes dividend equivalents.

5. Pension contributions are provided as a cash supplement/contribution.
6. CFO joined the Company on 3 August 2020 as an executive director
7. Mr. Roger Brown was appointed as the CEO effective 1 August 2020

Non-Executive Directors
The table below sets out the single total figure of remuneration and breakdown for each Non-Executive Director for 2020 on a paid basis in 
accordance with the policy as approved by shareholders.

Name
A.B.C. Orjiako
Michael Alexander

Michel Hochard3
Basil Omiyi

Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru

Charles Okeahalam
Lord Mark Malloch-Brown
Damian Dodo

Nathalie Delapalme
Oliver de Langavant4
Austin Avuru5
Arumah Oteh
Xavier Rolet

2020 fees1,2
($’000)
1,099
522

13
294

287

330
223
280

203
140
75
59
59

2019 Fees1,2

($’000) Role
1,155 Non-Executive Chairman and Nomination and Establishment Committee member

524 Senior Independent Director, Remuneration Committee Chairman,

Finance, Gas and Nomination and Establishment Committee, Corporate Governance, 
Compliance & Culture member

151
298 Gas and Risk Management Committee Chairman,

Remuneration, Nomination and Establishment Committee member

267 Corporate Governance, Compliance & Culture Committee Chairman Finance, CSR and Risk 

Management Committee member

254 Finance Committee Chairman, Remuneration and Gas Committee member
232 CSR Committee Chairman and Finance Committee member
242 CSR and Nomination and Establishment Committee Chairman, Remuneration, Corporate 

Governance, Compliance & Culture member

82 CSR Committee member
n/a
n/a Risk and HSSE Committee
n/a Nomination, gas and finance committee member
n/a Remuneration Committee Chairman, Risk and HSSE&CSR committee member

1.  Fees shown are those receivable in GBP, converted at the average exchange rate for the relevant year. This is with the exception of the Chairman, whose fees are converted at the 

July 2014 USD: GBP exchange rate. 

2.  The above capture the gross pay in line with the directors contract i.e. before withholding tax is withheld. We have re-stated the 2019 figure based on the same approach.
3. Michel Hochard stepped down as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from 31 January 2020.
4. Oliver de Langavant joined the Board as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from 28 January 2020.
5. Austin Avuru joined the Board as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from 1 August 2020.
6. Xavier Rolet and Arunma Oteh joined the Board as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from 1 October 2020. 

130

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Annual fees

Position
Chairman
Board
Senior Independent Director
Committee Chairmanship
Finance Committee Chairmanship3
Committee membership
Finance Committee membership3

2020 Annual
fee2
($’000)
1,099
151
214
43
57
29
36

2019 Annual
fee2
($’000)
1,099
150
213
43
57
28
35

1.  In special circumstances additional Director fees can be paid for Board commissioned specific longer-term activities led by the Director.
2.  Fees shown are those pain in GBP, converted at the average exchange rate for the relevant year. This is with the exception of the Chairman, whose fees are converted at the July 2014 

USD: GBP exchange rate. 

3. Only applicable to those Directors who have additional responsibilities.

Additional information regarding single figure table
The Committee considers that the performance conditions for all incentives are suitably demanding, having regard to the business strategy, 
shareholder expectations, the cyclical nature of the markets in which the Group operates and external advice. To the extent that any 
performance condition is not met, the relevant part of the award will lapse. There is no retesting of performance.

Annual bonus
Seplat promotes a culture of high performance and uses a scorecard to assess the annual bonus outcome. The bonus scorecard is reviewed 
annually to ensure strong alignment with Company strategic priorities, prevailing market practice and the operating environment. In setting 
the measures and targets for 2020, the Committee was conscious of the beginning of the pandemic and the impact the many lockdowns  
were having on the oil and gas sector. Recognising the difficulties faced by Seplat and the whole sector, the Committee determined that the 
maximum bonus that could be achieved for 2020 was 50% of maximum i.e. half the normal bonus opportunity. This was implemented by 
ensuring that the maximum payout for each element of the scorecard was 50% of maximum opportunity.

In respect of the 2020 financial year, the bonus awards payable to Executive Directors were approved by the Committee having reviewed the 
Company’s underlying performance. On the basis of the enforced OPEC production restrictions that were outside of Management’s control, 
the Committee applied judgement to the net Oil production element outcome given the impact of this unforeseen event. The Committee also 
determined that the completion of the OB3 pipeline was outside of Management’s control, and therefore also applied their judgement to this 
element. 

On this basis, the Committee was comfortable not to exercise discretion in relation to the formulaic outcomes set out below. Details of the 
achievement of the measures used to determine bonuses in respect of the 2020 financial year and the extent to which they were satisfied  
are shown in the table below. These resulting bonus figures are included in the single figure table.

Achievement of corporate performance conditions
The Executive Directors’ bonus scorecard is weighted in favour of corporate measures, as shown below. Additionally, individual strategic  
goals are set for each Executive Director annually based on the Company’s strategic priorities for the respective year. These measures would 
typically fall under one of the following categories: development of strategic focus, team development and succession planning, technical  
and operational excellence. It is the Committee’s view that the specific individual performance conditions are commercially sensitive and 
therefore details cannot be fully disclosed.

Overall, the annual bonus reward level for Executive Directors was broadly on-target (30% maximum) as set out below:

Performance measure

Total 
weighting

Specific

Performance achieved against targets

 Nil Payout

10%-30% of 
maximum

30%-50% of 
maximum

50% of  
maximum

Production and 
operational excellence

30%

Oil production volume

Gas production volume

CAPEX

Production OPEX

Revenue

Net cash flow

Financial

50%

G&A costs

Health and safety

Development projects

Strategy

5%

5%

10%

Reduction in NPDC receivables

Profit before tax

LTIF rate 

OB3 pipeline

Strategic objectives (set for each 
Director individually)

1.  The levels of award and weightings for each element of the 2020 bonus is shown as per the CEO scorecard for simplicity. Other Executive Directors’ scorecards are calibrated to ensure 

greater focus on areas most relevant for their roles.

131

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Annual bonus pay-out
The table below sets out the annual bonus earned for the year:

CEO

CFO

Operations Director

Former CEO

Performance measures
Corporate measures

Individual performance

Total

Achieved 
(% of max)
25.6% out of 
90%
5% out of 
10%
30.6% out of 
100%

Bonus earned
(US$’000)
$232

$45

$277

Achieved 
(% of max)
25.6% out of 
90%
5% out of 
10%
30.6% out of 
100%

Bonus earned
(US$’000)
$75

$15

$90

Achieved 
(% of max)
24.1% out of 
90%
5% out of 
10%
29.1% out of 
100%

Bonus earned
(US$’000)
$173

$36

$209

Achieved 
(% of max)
25.6% out of 
90%
5% out of 10%

30.6% out of 
100%

Bonus earned
(US$’000)
$253

$49

$302

In line with policy, 25% of the Executive Directors’ bonus will be deferred into shares and will be released at the end of year 3 subject to 
continued employment.

Long-term incentives vesting in 2020
The 2018 LTIP awards were made to the CEO and CFO on 2 May 2018. The awards vest on 2 May 2021; however the performance period for 
these awards ended on 31 December 2020. The performance conditions for these awards are relative TSR measured against a bespoke group 
of E&P companies underpinned by a reserves growth target.

Seplat’s TSR performance resulted in 100% vesting for this element of the award as the Company was placed above the upper quartile of the 
comparator group. The FY20 audited reserves are 499.4mmboe which represents a 4.496% increase from the FY17 reserves of 477 mmboe, based 
on excluding the increase in reserves from the Eland acquisition. Given the audited reserves, including Eland assets, have increased by less than 
10% then the 100% relative TSR vesting level has been reduced in line with the underpin vesting schedule, such that overall vesting is 86.74%.

TSR performance vs comparator group

 Reserves growth underpin

Seplat TSR 
growth

-27%

Median TSR 
growth (25% 
vesting)

Upper quartile 
TSR growth 
(100% vesting)

Vesting under 
TSR condition

Seplat reserves 
growth between 
FY17 and FY 20

Reserves growth 
required to fully 
satisfy underpin

Reduction in 
vesting based on 
the underpin

Final vesting level

-67%

-37%

100%

4.696%1

10%

13.26%

86.74%

1 Reserves exclude growth resulting from M&A activity.

The following table presents the number of 2018 LTIP awards that will vest in May 2021 based on the assessment of the performance 
conditions and the resulting value of awards on vesting for each Executive Director.

Role

Roger Brown

Effiong Okon 

Austin Avuru

Number of 2018 LTIP 
awards
granted

Number of 2018 LTIP 
awards vesting in May 
2021

Value of vested 
awards ($)1

Value attributable to 
share price
growth

760,046

779,061

1,250,077

659,263

675,757

1,084,316

528,110

541,322

868,603

nil

nil

nil

1. Based on Q4 2020 average share price of $0.80 and excludes dividend equivalents. 

The Committee was comfortable that the vesting value and value attributable to share price growth was commensurate with the underlying 
performance and as such, did not exercise any discretion to change the outcomes of the 2018 LTIP

We also present detail on the number of 2017 LTIP awards that vested in 20 April 2020 based on the assessment of the performance 
conditions and the resulting value of awards on vesting for each Executive Director. This has been restated from last year to reflect the actual 
share price at vesting and dividend equivalents due on the vested awards.

Role
Austin Avuru
Roger Brown

Number of 2017 LTIP 
awards
granted
1,609,375
978,500

Number of 2017 
LTIP awards 
vesting in March
2020
1,310,031
796,499

Value of vested 
awards1
1,008,724
613,304

Value 
attributable to 
share price
growth
nil
nil

1. Based on closing share price on $0.62 20 April 2020 and includes dividend equivalents paid on shares vested to date.

Long-term incentives awarded in 2020
The table below sets out the details of the long-term incentive awards made in the 2020 financial year where vesting will be determined according 
to the achievement of performance conditions that will be tested at the end of the three-year performance period on 31 December 2022.

Relative TSR measure

Operational and technical scorecard underpin

Percentage of 
award vesting 
at threshold 
performance 
(median 
performance)

Maximum 
percentage 
of face value 
that could vest 
(upper quartile 
performance)

60% and below 
of objectives 
met at 
threshold over 
3 years

70% of 
objectives met 
at threshold 
over 3 years

80% and above 
of objectives 
met at 
threshold over 
3 years

25%

100%

TSR vesting 
reduced by 
75%

TSR vesting 
reduced by 
35%

TSR vesting 
not reduced

Role
Roger Brown

Type of award
Nil-cost options
Nil-cost options

Basis on which 
award made
Annual
Additional award on 
promotion to CEO

Effiong Okon 
Austin Avuru

Conditional shares Annual
Conditional shares Annual

Face value of 
award (US$)
634,949
198,341

707,753
1,044,225

132

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020In line with the Company’s operation of policy, the share price used to calculate the number of shares awarded was the higher of the average 
share price in Q1 2020 and £1 which at both awards dates was £1. Therefore, the face value of award shown, based on the share price at grant 
in the table above will be lower than the policy level of awards to the Executive Directors as a percentage of salary. 

There is straight-line vesting between the threshold and maximum TSR and straight-line reduction between the levels of operational and 
technical performance.

The comparator group used for assessing relative TSR for awards granted in 2020 consists of the following companies:

• Africa Oil

• Cairn Energy

• DNO

• Energean Oil & Gas

• Enquest

• Frontera Energy

• Genel Energy

• Gran Tierra Energy

• Hurricane Energy

• Kosmos Energy

• Parex Resources

• Phoenix Global Resources

• Premier Oil

• Serica Energy

• Tullow Oil

Deferred Annual Bonus shares awarded in 2020
The table below sets out the details of the Deferred Annual Bonus shares awards made in the 2020 financial year. No further performance 
conditions will apply, other than continued employment and the normal Vesting date of the Award will be 31 December 2021 (two years 
following the end of the performance year in respect of which the Award is made). 

Role
Roger Brown
Effiong Okon 
Austin Avuru

Type of award
Nil-cost options
Conditional shares
Conditional shares

Basis on which award made
Annual
Annual
Annual

Deferred Bonus 
Share
48,850
48,713
116,936

Face value of award 
(US$’000)
30,776
30,689
73,670

Performance conditions

Continued employment

The share price used to calculate the face value of awards was that at the date of award, being 30 April 2020 of US$0.63 for all annual 
awards above.

Payments to past Directors
None.

Payments for loss of office
The Remuneration Committee and Board approved to grant Mr. Austin Avuru an exit package in recognition of his meritorious services to 
Seplat from inception. The sum of $1,130,000 and $543,994 as compensation for loss of office and payment in lieu of notice respectively were 
paid after his retirement. 

Mr Avuru’s 2020 annual bonus will be pro-rated for time served as CEO in the year and the payout will be based on performance in line with 
policy as set out above. In-flight deferred bonus shares will vest on their normal dates without proration in line with policy. 

Mr Avuru’s LTIP awards granted in 2018, 2019 and 2020 will continue to vest on the normal vesting dates based on achievement of 
performance targets. The Committee determined not to pro-rate the number of awards vesting on the basis that Mr Avuru remains an eligible 
employee under the rules of the LTIP as a Non-Executive Director and to reflect the length of his tenure as CEO and the corporate successes 
achieved during this period. 

Mr. Austin Avuru received maintenance of his security logistics for Lagos, Abuja and all areas of Seplat operations for three years.

Fees retained for external non-executive directorships
Executive Directors may hold positions in other companies as non-executive directors and retain the fees.

Statement of Directors’ shareholdings
The table below sets out the number of shares of the Company in which current Directors had a beneficial interest and details of long-term 
incentive interests as at 31 December 2020.

Director
Roger Brown
Emeka Onwuka5
Effiong Okon

Shares 
required to 
be held % of 
salary
200%
150%
150%

Beneficially
owned1
2,840,585
0
0

Share plan 
Interests 
subject to 
performance
Conditions4
2,848,015
0
2,792,227

Shareholding

Share plan 
Interests not 
subject to 
performance 
conditions6
592,265
0
119,579

Vested but 
unexercised 
share plan 
interests2
2,840,5850
0
0

Shareholding 
requirement 
met3
Yes
No
No

Total interests
held as at
31/12/2020
6,280,865
0
2,911,806

1. Beneficial interests include shares held directly or indirectly by connected persons.
2. Shares held by Stanbic IBTC Trustee Limited/Seplat LTIP which vested but are unexercised.
3.  Shareholding requirement had to be met by April 2019 (5 years post IPO) or five years after joining if later. The total of beneficially owned shares, interests not subject to performance 

conditions and vested but unexercised interests are included in the calculation and the share price of $0.89 on 31 December 2020 was used. 

4. 2018, 2019 and 2020 LTIP awards.
5. Emeka Onwuka joined the Board on 3 August 2020. 
6. 2019 Deferred bonus shares

133

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Details of the Non-Executive Directors’ interests in shares are set out below:

Director
A.B.C. Orjiako
Michael Alexander
Basil Omiyi
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru
Charles Okeahalam
Lord Mark Malloch-Brown
Damian Dodo
Nathalie Delapalme
Oliver de Langavant2
Austin Avuru3
Xavier Rolet4
Arunma Oteh4

Shares held as 
at 31/12/20201
37,818,522
115,238
95,238
95,238
495,238
31,746
0
0
0
60,098,823
0
0

1. Beneficial interests include shares held directly or indirectly by connected persons.
2. Oliver de Langavant joined the Board as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from 28 January 2020.
3.  Austin Avuru joined the Board as a Non-Executive Director of the Company with effect from 1 August 2020. Austin Avuru is complying with his Post Cessation Shareholding Requirement 

in operation due to his previous role as an Executive Director. 

4. Arunma Oteh, OON and Xavier Rolet KBE joined the Board as Independent Non-Executive Directors effective 1 October 2020.

Directors’ interest in contracts
Between 31 December 2020 and 23 March 2021, shares held by Austin Avuru increased by 1,128,359. There were no other changes to 
Directors’ shareholdings.

Comparison of overall performance and pay
The graph below shows the value of US$100 invested in the Company’s shares since listing compared to the median of the FTSE All Share 
Exploration & Production companies. The graph shows the Total Shareholder Return generated by both the movement in share value and  
the reinvestment over the same period of dividend income.

The Committee considers that the FTSE All Share Exploration & Production is an appropriate comparator group as it contains the UK 
companies that are constituents of Seplat’s TSR comparator group. This graph has been calculated in accordance with the Regulations.  
It should be noted that the Company began trading conditionally on the London Stock Exchange on 9 April 2014 and therefore only has a  
listed share price for the period of 9 April 2014 to 31 December 2020.

TSR (rebased to 100 at 9 April 2014)1

31/03/14

30/06/14

30/09/14

31/12/14

31/03/15

30/06/15

30/09/15

31/12/15

31/03/16

30/06/16

30/09/16

31/12/16

31/03/17

30/06/17

30/09/17

31/12/17

31/03/18

30/06/18

30/09/18

31/12/18

31/03/19

30/06/19

30/09/19

31/12/19

  Seplat

  FTSE All Share Exploration & Production 

Source: Thomson Reuters Datastream

1.  In line with the methodology used for LTIP performance assessment, TSR was calculated using a three-month average.

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

134

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020CEO historical remuneration
The table below sets out the total remuneration delivered to the CEO between 2014 and 2020 valued using the methodology applied to the 
single total figure of remuneration. The Committee does not believe that the remuneration payable in its earlier years as a private company 
bears any comparative value to that paid in its later years and therefore the Remuneration Committee has chosen to disclose remuneration 
only from 2014:

CEO
Total single figure (US$’000)1
Annual bonus payment level achieved (% of maximum opportunity)
LTIP vesting level achieved (% of maximum opportunity)

Roger 
Brown

20203
836
30.6%
86.7%

Austin 
Avuru

20203
2,717
30.6%
86.7%

Austin Avuru

2019
3,954
45%
81%

2017
2018
4,987
5,158
68%
49%
75% 100%

2016
3,143
35%
97%

2015
3,004
46%
N/A2

2014
2,866
53%
N/A2

1. Includes vesting in relation to the one-off Global Offer Bonus award in 2014 and 2015. 
2.  No LTIP awards vested in 2014 and 2015 – vesting of the first LTIP awards (awarded in 2014) occurred in 2017 (however the performance period for these awards ended on  

31 December 2016 so it is included in the 2016 column). There were no equity based arrangements operating prior to listing.

3.  Mr. Austin Avuru retired as CEO on 31 July 2020. Mr. Roger Brown was appointed to the Board as his successor on 1 August 2020, transitioning from his role as CFO.  

The Single Figure details above for Roger Brown include amounts paid in relation to his role as CEO only.

Change in the Directors’ remuneration compared with employees
The table below shows the percentage change in Executive Director and Non-Executive Director total remuneration from 2019 to 2020, 
alongside the change for the average of employees within the Company. 

Roger Brown (CEO)
Emeka Onwuka (CFO)
Effiong Okon (Operations Director)
A.B.C. Orjiako
Michael Alexander
Basil Omiyi
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru
Charles Okeahalam
Lord Mark Malloch-Brown
Damian Dodo
Nathalie Delapalme
Oliver de Langavant2
Austin Avuru3
Average of Employees

Salary / fees
14%
n/a
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
0%
8.2% 

Taxable benefits
263%
n/a
(21%)
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
34% 

Short-term variable pay
(9)%
n/a
(34)%
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
(2%)%

1.  The Directors year-on-year change has been expressed in currency in which their pay has been set i.e. USD for the Executive Directors and Chairman and GBP£ for the other 

Non-executives. The annual bonus change for the Executive Directors reflects the change in maximum bonus opportunity achieved.

2.  Average employee pay year-on-year change is expressed in Naira as a significant majority of employees are paid in Naira. The numbers are provided for all employees of Seplat.  

The large change in average value of benefits provided to all employees is due to an increase in the eligibility of individuals for certain benefits at lower grades.

Relative importance of the spend on pay
The table below sets out the overall spend on pay for all employees compared with the dividends distributed to shareholders:

Significant contributions
Overall spend on pay1
Distributions to shareholders (dividends)2

2020
($m)
68.0
58.8

2019
($m)
62.0
58.8

% change
10.26%
0%

1. Calculated by converting 2020 and 2021 figures (from Naira) at the relevant year’s average NGN: USD exchange rate and excludes LTIP. 
2. For 2020 this includes an interim dividend paid in December 2020 and a final dividend paid in May 2021.

Statement of implementation of policy in following year

Date of letter of 
appointment 
1 June 2017
6 June 2018
14 December 2009 Rolling

Non-Executive Directors
A.B.C. Orjiako
Michael Alexander
Michel Hochard1

Basil Omiyi
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru
Charles Okeahalam
Lord Mark Malloch-Brown
Damian Dodo
Nathalie Delapalme
Austin Avuru
Olivier de Langavant
Arumah Oteh
Mr. Xavier R. Rolet,

Please see at a glance section.

1 June 2017
30 June 2014
1 June 2017
6 June 2018
30 June 2014
18 July 2019
1 August 2020
28 January 2020
1 October 2020
1 October 2020

Notice period 
from Company

Nature of contract
Fixed term to 31 May 2020 12 months
Fixed term to 2021 AGM 6 months
6 months
6 months
Fixed term to 2020 AGM 6 months
6 months
Fixed term to 2022 AGM 
Fixed term to 2020 AGM 6 months
6 months
Fixed term to 2021 AGM 
Fixed term to 2022 AGM 
6 months
Fixed term to 2022 AGM 6 months
12 months 
Fixed Term 
Fixed Term
12 months 
Fixed Term to Next AGM 6 months 
Fixed Term to next AGM 6 months 

Notice period 
from Director
12 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
6 months
12 months 
12 months 
6 months 
6 months 

Compensation provisions for early 
termination
None.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
None.
None.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
None
None.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.
6 months’ fees if not re-elected or retired.

135

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Directors’ remuneration report  | continued

Service agreements and letters of appointment

Executive Directors
Roger Brown
Emeka Onwuka
Effiong Okon

Date of service 
contract 
20 May 2013
3 August 2020
1 February 2018

Nature of 
contract
Rolling
Rolling
Rolling

Notice period 
from Company
12 months
12 months
12 months

Notice period 
from Director
12 months
12 months
12 months

Compensation provisions for early termination

Payment in lieu of notice equal to 12 months’ 
salary and benefits, including any payments 
accrued at the date of termination.

1. Michael Hochard stepped down as Non-Executive Director on 31 January 2020.

The Committee’s policy for setting notice periods is that a 12-month period will apply for Executive Directors unless the Committee 
determines otherwise.

The Non-Executive Directors of the Company do not have service contracts. The Non-Executive Directors are appointed by letters of 
appointment, which are kept at Seplat’s registered office along with Executive Director service contracts.

As required by Nigerian law, the Company follows the provisions set out in its Memorandum and Articles of Association and annually places 
one-third of its Independent Non-Executive Directors for re-election. 

Composition and terms of reference of the Remuneration Committee 
The members of Seplat’s Remuneration Committee are as follows: 

• Xavier R. Rolet (Chairman) 

• Basil Omiyi 

• Charles Okeahalam 

• Damian Dodo 

Michael Alexander stepped down as the Chairman of the Remuneration Committee from 31 January 2021, with Xavier Rolet succeeding 
Michael in the role from that date. The Board has delegated to the Committee, under agreed terms of reference, responsibility for the 
remuneration policy and for determining specific packages for the Executive Directors, the Chairman, Non-Executive Directors and other 
members of the senior management team. The terms of reference for the Committee are available on the Company’s website, www.
seplatpetroleum.com, and from the Company Secretary at the registered office.

The Committee receives assistance from the GM Human Resources, who attends meetings by invitation. The Executive Directors attend by 
invitation on occasions, except when issues relating to their own remuneration are being discussed. The Committee met 6 times during the 
financial year. 

Advisers to the Remuneration Committee 
The Committee continues to engage the services of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (‘PwC’) as independent remuneration adviser. Other 
services received by the Company from PwC UK during the financial year included tax and accounting related services. During the financial 
year, PwC UK supported the Committee on all aspects of remuneration policy for Executive Directors, Non-Executive Directors and members 
of the Executive Team. The Committee is satisfied that advice received from PwC UK during the year was objective and independent.

PwC UK is a member of the Remuneration Consultants Group and the voluntary code of conduct of that body is designed to ensure objective 
and independent advice is given to remuneration committees.

Shareholder voting at general meeting 
At the AGM held on 6 June 2018, the Company received a vote of 99.7% in favour of its remuneration policy and the Remuneration Report 
through the acceptance of the 2017 Directors’ Remuneration Report. At the most recent AGM on 28 May 2020 the Company received a vote of 
100.00% in favour of its Remuneration Report through the acceptance of the Annual Accounts, Directors' Report, Auditors' Report for the year 
ended 31 December 2019.

Xavier Rolet, KBE (‘S.I.D.’)1 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee 

1  Independent Non-Executive Director

136

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Report of the Directors 
For the year ended 31 December 2020 

The Directors are pleased to present  
to the shareholders of the Company 
their report with the audited  
financial statements for the  
year ended 31 December 2020.

Principal activity
The Company is principally engaged in oil and gas exploration 
and production. 

Operating results

Revenue
Operating profit(loss)
Profit before taxation (loss)
Profit for the year (loss)

Nigerian ₦ million

2020
190,922
(11,418)
(28,872)
(30,712)

2019
214,157
95,749
89,914
85,016

$’000

2019
2020
697,777
530,647
(31,716)
311,975
(80,209) 292,967
(85,322) 277,008

Dividend
During the year, the Directors recommended and paid to members an 
interim dividend of $0.05 per share declared in October in line with 
our normal dividend distribution timetable (2019: $0.05). 

Further to this, the Board of Seplat is recommending a final dividend 
of $0.05 per share, which is subject to approval of shareholders, at 
the AGM which will be held on 20 May 2021 in Lagos, Nigeria.

Unclaimed dividend
The total amount outstanding at 31 December 2020 is 
US$593,230.86 and ₦642,070,562.85.

A list of shareholders and corresponding unclaimed dividends is 
available on the Company’s website: www.seplatpetroleum.com.

Changes in property, plant and equipment
Movements in property, plant and equipment and significant 
additions thereto are shown in Note 19 to the financial statements.

Rotation of Directors
In accordance with the provisions of Section 285 of the Companies 
and Allied Matters Act, 2020, one third of the Directors of the 
Company shall retire from office. The Directors to retire every year 
shall be those who have been longest in office since their 
last election. 

However, in accordance with Article 131 of the Company’s Articles  
of Association, apart from the Executive Directors and Founding 
Directors, all other Directors are appointed for a fixed term. Upon 
expiration of the terms, they become eligible for re-appointment. 

The Directors who are eligible for re-appointment this year are 
Mr. Damian Dodo, SAN and Lord Mark Malloch-Brown.

Management transition and Board changes
As previously announced, our co-founder Austin Avuru stepped down 
as Chief Executive Officer on 31 July 2020 but remains a member of 
the Board as a Non-Executive Director. Roger Brown, who has been 
Seplat’s Chief Financial Officer since 2013, assumed the position of 
CEO on 1 August 2020. 

Emeka Onwuka joined as CFO and Board member on 1 August 2020. 
Mr. Onwuka has more than 30 years’ experience in financial services 
within Sub-Saharan Africa. He has served as Group Managing 
Director/CEO of Diamond Bank Plc and is a former Chairman of 
Enterprise Bank Limited. Mr. Onwuka is a Partner at Andersen Tax 
Nigeria and holds various Board positions at companies including 
FMDQ Securities Exchange Limited, FMDQ Holdings Limited, 
Ecobank Nigeria Limited and Bharti Airtel Nigeria.

The Board accepted the voluntary resignation/retirement of 
Mr. Michael Alexander, Senior Independent Non-Executive Director 
(SINED), and Mrs. Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru, Independent Non-
Executive Director (INED), effective 31 January 2021. Mr. Alexander 
was appointed to the Board in June 2013 while Mrs. Okauru was 
appointed in March 2013. For the past seven years, both Directors 
served the Board meritoriously, deploying their multi-facetted 
experiences towards the growth of the organisation. Seplat remains 
grateful for their immense contributions to the Board and the 
Company.

Consequently, the Board has appointed Mr. Basil Omiyi, Independent 
Non-Executive Director (INED) as the new Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director from 1 February 2021. 

The Board during the course of the year, appointed Ms. Arunma Oteh, 
OON and Mr. Xavier R. Rolet KBE as Independent Non-Executive 
Directors (INEDs) of the Company, with effect from 1 October 2020.

Ms. Arunma Oteh, OON is a seasoned C-suite executive with several 
years of experience operating at the highest levels at major 
multilateral agencies, global financial institutions and in 
Government. She has been an academic scholar at University of 
Oxford since January 2019 and a member of the London Stock 
Exchange Africa Advisory Group since January 2020. 

Ms. Oteh served as Treasurer and Vice President of the World Bank 
from 2015 to 2018. As Treasurer, she led a global team that managed 
the World Bank’s $200 billion debt portfolio as well as an asset 
portfolio of $200 billion for the World Bank Group and several public 
sector clients including 65 Central Banks. She was the Director 
General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria 
from 2010 to 2015. As Director General of Nigeria’s apex capital 
market regulator, she was responsible for the regulation of Nigeria’s 
capital markets, including the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and led the 
rebuilding of the capital markets after the global financial crisis. She 
also served on Nigeria’s Economic Management team, chaired by the 
Nigerian President. Prior to the SEC Nigeria, she worked at the Africa 
Development Bank for 17 years in a variety of roles including Group 
Vice President, Corporate Services (2006 to 2009) and Group 
Treasurer (2001 to 2006). 

While Mr. Xavier Rolet, KBE, is an experienced CEO, Co-Founder, and 
Entrepreneur. Named as one of Harvard Business Review’s 100 Best 
CEOs in the World in 2017, Mr. Rolet has demonstrated a history of 
successful turnarounds in the global financial services industry. In 
his decade at the helm of the London Stock Exchange, the LSE’s 
market valuation rose from £800million to more than £15billion, 
transforming it into one of the world’s largest exchanges by 
market capitalisation. 

He is currently the Chairman, Board of Directors at Phosagro PJSC,  
a member of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Stock Exchange 
Tadawul as an appointee of the Public Investment Fund, and an 
Expert Adviser to the Shanghai Institute of Finance for the Real 
Economy. He has held various senior positions in the financial 
services industry throughout his career: CEO of CQS, a global hedge 
fund; CEO of Banque Lehman Brothers in Paris; Co-Head of Global 
Equity & Derivatives Trading at Lehman Brothers New York; Global 
Head of Risk and Trading at Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein; 
Vice-President, International Equity Risk Arbitrage at Goldman 
Sachs New York; and Co-Head of European Equities Sales and 
Trading at Goldman Sachs International Ltd in London.

The Seplat Board is indeed privileged to have Arunma and Xavier on 
board and look forward to their contributions towards the continued 
success of the Board and Company. 

The appointment and removal or reappointment of Directors is 
governed by its Articles of Association and the Companies and  
Allied Matters Act, 2020. It also sets out the powers of Directors.

137

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Finance Committee

Designation
S/N Name
Chairman
1. Charles Okeahalam
Member
2. Michael Alexander 
3.
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru Member
4. Lord Mark Malloch-Brown Member
5. Arunma Oteh, OON1
Member

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
5
5
5
5
1

No. of times  
in attendance
5
5
5
5
1

Meeting dates: 27 January, 12 March, 21 April, 21 July, 21 October 

1.  Ms. Arunma Oteh, OON was appointed to the Board as an Independent Non-Executive 
Director on October 1, 2020. Following her appointment, she attended one (1) Finance 
Committee meeting that held after her October 2020 appointment.

Nomination and Establishment Committee

Designation
S/N Name
Chairman
1. Damian Dodo, SAN
Member
2. Basil Omiyi
3. Michael Alexander
Member
4. Lord Mark Malloch-Brown1 Member
5. Arunma Oteh, OON2
Member

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
6
6
6
5
1

No. of times  
in attendance
6
6
6
5
1

Meeting dates: 27 January, 22 April, 19 May, 18 June, 22 July, 20 October

1. Lord Mark Malloch-Brown was appointed to the Committee in April 2020.
2.  While Ms. Arunma Oteh, OON joined the Board in October 2020 and the Committee in the 

same month.

Remuneration Committee

S/N Name
1. Michael Alexander
2. Basil Omiyi
3. Charles Okeahalam
4. Damian Dodo, SAN
5. Xavier R. Rolet, KBE1

Designation
Chairman
Member
Member
Member
Member

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
6
6
6
6
2

No. of times  
in attendance
6
6
6
6
2

Meeting dates: 27 January, 18 March, 28 April, 22 July, 20 October, 2 December

1. Xavier Rolet, KBE was appointed to the Board as an Independent Non-executive Director 
on October 1, 2020. Following his appointment, he attended the two (2) Remuneration 
Committee meetings that held after his appointment and he was appointed Chairman of 
the Remuneration Committee from 1 February 2021.

Risk Management and HSSE Committee

S/N Name
1. Basil Omiyi
2.
4. Xavier R. Rolet, KBE1
5. Austin Avuru1

Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru Member
Member
Member

Designation
Chairman

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
4
4
1
1

No. of times  
in attendance
4
4
1
1

Meeting dates: 23 January, 21 April, 20 July, 19 October

1.  Mr. Xavier R. Rolet, KBE was appointed to the Board and Committee as an Independent 
Non-Executive Director in October 2020 while Mr. Austin Avuru joined the Committee as 
a Non-Executive Director in August 2020.

Report of the Directors  | continued 
For the year ended 31 December 2020 

Corporate governance
The Board of Directors is committed to sound corporate governance 
and ensures that the Company complies with the Nigerian and UK 
corporate governance regulations as well as international best 
practice. The Board is aware of the Code of Corporate Governance 
issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Nigerian 
Code of Corporate Governance 2018, issued by the Financial 
Reporting Council of Nigeria and the UK Corporate Governance Code 
2018, issued by the Financial Reporting Council and ensures that the 
Company complies with them. The Board is responsible for keeping 
proper accounting records with reasonable accuracy. It is also 
responsible for safe guarding the assets of the Company through 
prevention, detection of fraud and other irregularities. In order to 
carry out its responsibilities, the Board has established seven Board 
Committees and the Statutory Audit Committee and has delegated 
aspects of its responsibilities to them. All eight Committees have 
terms of reference that guide their members in the execution of their 
duties, and these terms of reference are available for review by the 
public. All the Committees present a report to the Board with 
recommendations on the matters within their purview. 

Board Committees and record of attendance at meetings
The Board met 10 times during the year and at least once every 
quarter in line with Section 12.1 of the SEC Code. Board meetings 
were well attended with attendance of all Directors exceeding 
two-thirds as required by Section 12.2 of the SEC Code. The record  
of attendance of Directors at Board meetings and that of its 
Committees in the year under review is published herewith: 

Board of Directors

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
Designation
S/N Name
Chairman
10
1. A.B.C. Orjiako 
Chief Executive Officer 10
2. Roger Brown
3. Emeka Onwuka2
Chief Financial Officer 3
Operations Director
10
4. Effiong Okon
5. Austin Avuru
Non-Executive Director 10
6. Olivier Langavant Non-Executive Director 10

No. of times  
in attendance
10
10
3
10
10
10

Nathalie 
Delapalme

7.

8. Michael Alexander1

9. Charles Okeahalam

10. Basil Omiyi
Ifueko  
M. Omoigui Okauru1
Lord Mark  
Malloch-Brown

12.

11.

13. Damian Dodo, SAN

14.  Arunma Oteh, OON2

15. Xavier Rolet, KBE2

10

10

Non-Executive Director 10
Senior Independent 
Non-Executive Director 10
Independent Non-
Executive Director
Independent Non-
Executive Director
Independent Non-
Executive Director
Independent Non-
Executive Director
Independent Non-
Executive Director
Independent Non-
Executive Director
Independent Non-
Executive Director

10

10

10

3

3

10

10

10

10

9

9

8

3

3

Meeting dates: 28 January, 3 March, 19 March, 28 April, 28 May, 6 July, 28 July, 8 October, 
27 October and 24 December

1.  Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru and Michael Alexander voluntarily retired from the Board 

effective 31 January 2021

2.  The Board appointed Emeka Onwuka as Chief Financial Officer/Executive Director 
effective 1 August 2020; Arunma Oteh, OON and Xavier Rolet, KBE as Independent 
Non-Executive Directors effective 1 October 2020.

138

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Corporate Social Responsibility Committee

Designation

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown Chairman

S/N Name
1.
2. Xavier R. Rolet, KBE1
3.
4. Damian Dodo, SAN
5. Nathalie Delapalme

Member
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru Member
Member
Member

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
3
1
3
3
3

No. of times  
in attendance
3
0
3
3
3

Meeting dates: 23 April, 20 July, 19 October

1.  Mr. Xavier Rolet, KBE was appointed to the Board in October 2020 and joined the 

Committee the same month.

Gas Committee

S/N Name
1. Basil Omiyi
2. Michael Alexander
3. Arunma Oteh, OON1
4. Charles Okeahalam

Designation
Chairman
Member
Member
Member

Meeting dates: 18 March, 20 July, 19 October

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
3
3
1
3

No. of times  
in attendance
3
3
1
3

1.  Ms. Arunma Oteh, OON was appointed to the Board as an Independent Non-Executive 
Director in October 2020 and became a Member of the Gas Committee in the same 
month.

5.

Corporate Governance Compliance and Culture Committee

Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru Chairman

S/N Name
1.
2. Michael Alexander
3. Damian Dodo, SAN
4. Nathalie Delapalme1

Designation

Member
Member
Member

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
 4
4
4
3

No. of times  
in attendance
4
4
4
3

Meeting dates: 20 January, 23 April, 22 July, 20 October

1. Madame Nathalie Delapalme joined the Committee in April 2020.

Statutory Audit Committee 

S/N Name
1. Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN Chairman/

Designation

No. of 
meetings  
in the year
4

No. of times  
in attendance
4

2. Dr. Faruk Umar

Shareholder 
Member
Shareholder 
Member

3. Sir Sunday Nnamdi Nwosu Shareholder 

4. Olivier De Langavant1

Member
Director 
Member
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru Director 
Member
Director 
Member

6. Damian Dodo, SAN

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

4

Meeting dates: 12 March, 21 April, 21 July, 21 October

1.  Mr. Michel Hochard retired from the Board in January 2020 and was replaced by 

Mr. Olivier De Langavant as a Director member on the Audit Committee in January 2020  
and a Non-Executive Director on the Board.

Directors’ interest in shares
In accordance with Section 301 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020, the interests of the Directors (and of persons connected with 
them) in the share capital of the Company (all of which are beneficial unless otherwise stated) are as follows:

A.B.C. Orjiako1
Austin Avuru2 
Roger Brown
Effiong Okon
Emeka Onwuka4
Oliver De Langavant
Michael Alexander3
Charles Okeahalam
Basil Omiyi
Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru3
Lord Mark Malloch-Brown
Damian Dodo, SAN
Nathalie Delapalme
Arunma Oteh, OON4
Xavier Rolet, KBE4
Total

31-Dec-19

31-Dec-20

No. of Ordinary  
Shares
37,818,522
71,727,906
2,022,363
—
n/a
n/a
115,238
495,238
495,238
95,238
31,746
—
—
n/a
n/a
112,896,727

No. of Ordinary  
Shares
37,818,522
60,098,823
2,840,585
—
—
—
115,238
495,238
495,238
95,238
31,746
—
—
—
—
102,085,866

As a percentage  
of Ordinary  
Shares in issue
6.43%
10.21%
0.48%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.02%
0.08%
0.08%
0.02%
0.01%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
17.35%

01-Mar-21

No. of Ordinary  
Shares
37,818,522
61,227,182
2,840,585
0
0
0
n/a
495,238
495,238
n/a
31,746
0
0
0
0
103,003,749

As a percentage  
of Ordinary  
Shares in issue
6.43%
10.40%
0.48%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.08%
0.08%
0.00%
0.01%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
0.00%
17.50%

1.  24,318,522 ordinary shares are held directly by A.B.C. Orjiako and Shebah Petroleum Development Company Limited, which is an entity controlled by A.B.C. Orjiako and members  

of his family; 900,000 ordinary shares are held by Pursley Resources Limited, a company owned by A.B.C. Orjiako's wife; and 12,600,000 ordinary shares are held directly by  
A.B.C. Orjiako’s siblings.

2.  At 31 December 2019, total direct holdings were nil and indirect ordinary shares were 71,727,906. At 29 July 2020, total direct holdings were nil and indirect ordinary shares were 
60,098,823. During the period, a transfer of 7,831,534 ordinary shares held by Platform Petroleum Limited (an entity in which Austin Avuru has an equity interest) to Professional 
Support Limited (an entity wholly controlled by Austin Avuru). Similarly, a transfer of 12,828,161 shares held directly by Platform Petroleum was made to certain shareholders of 
Platform Petroleum and they are therefore no longer considered to be connected persons. A further 2,352,652 LTIP awards for Austin Avuru were released to him and transferred to 
Professional Support. Following these transfers, Platform Petroleum holds 20,000,000 shares (3.40%) and Professional Support holds 41,227,182 shares (7.01%). Mr. Avuru now holds 
nil direct interest and an indirect interest of 61,227,182 ordinary shares (10.40%). As a result of the transfers, Mr. Avuru has now increased his equity interest in Platform Petroleum  
from 23% to 37.11% interest.

3.  Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru and Michael Alexander voluntarily resigned/retired from the Board effective 31 January 2021.
4.  The Board appointed Emeka Onwuka as Chief Financial Officer/Executive Director effective 1 August 2020; Arunma Oteh, OON and Xavier Rolet KBE as Independent Non-Executive 

Directors effective 1 October 2020.

139

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Report of the Directors  | continued 
For the year ended 31 December 2020 

Directors’ interest in contracts
The Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer have disclosable indirect interest in contracts with which the Company was involved as at 
31 December 2020 for the purpose of section 303 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020. These have been disclosed in Note 43. 

Substantial interest in shares 
At 1 March 2021, the following shareholders held more than 5.0% of the issued share capital of the Company:

Shareholder
MPI
Petrolin
Allan Gray
Professional Support
Sustainable Capital

Free float
The Company’s free float at 31 December 2020 was 30%.

Acquisition of own shares
The Company did not acquire any of its shares during the year.

Shareholding analysis
The shareholding pattern at 31 December 2020 is as stated below: 

Share range
1-10,000
10,001-50,000
50,001-100,000
100,001-500,000
500,001-1,000,000
1,000,001-5,000,000
5,000,001-10,000,000
10,000,001-50,000,000
100,000,001-500,000,0001
Total

Number of 
holdings
120,400,000
81,015,319
42,477,722
38,970,463
33,822,817

% of 
shareholding
20.46
13.77
7.22
7.01
5.75

Number of 
shareholders
2,805
177
51
66
16
21
2
3
1
3,142

% of 
shareholders
89.27
5.63
1.62
2.10
0.51
0.67
0.06
0.10
0.03
100.00 

Number of 
holdings
1,837,808
4,272,420
3,730,375
15,016,002
10,845,802
44,693,232
13,506,800
58,195,849
436,346,273
588,444,561

% of 
shareholding
0.31
0.73
0.63 
2.55 
1.84 
7.60
2.30 
9.89 
74.15 
100.00

1. Includes shares held by Computer Share on the London Stock Exchange. 

Share capital history
Year
Jun-09
Mar-13
Jul-13
Aug-13
Dec-14
Dec-15
Dec-16
Dec-17
Feb-18
Dec-19
Dec-20

Authorised increase 
—
100,000,000
200,000,000
600,000,000
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

 Cumulative 
100,000,000
200,000,000
400,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,000,000,000
1,000,000,000

Issued increase 
100,000,000
100,000,000
200,000,000
153,310,313
—
10,134,248
—
—
25,000,000
—
—

 Cumulative 
100,000,000
200,000,000
400,000,000
553,310,313
553,310,313
563,444,561
563,444,561
563,444,561
588,444,561
588,444,561
588,444,561

Consideration
cash
stock split from N1.00 to 50k
bonus (1 for 2)
cash
No change
staff share scheme
No change
No change
staff share scheme
No change
No change

Donations
The following donations were made by the Group during the year (2020: ₦72,660,069, $236,678).

Name of Beneficiary
Aret Adams Foundation
Covid-19 Support in Edo State and Delta State
Covid-19 Support in Imo State
Ikoyi Golf Community Nigeria Association
Independent Petroleum Producer Group Covid-19 Support
Others
Pillar Oil Limited
Total

NG₦
 527,555.54 
 41,920,848.37 
 32,150,407.59 
 1,055,282.75 
 58,738,510.50 
 21,138,644.42 
 2,638,582.99 
 158,169,832.15 

 $
 1,465.80 
 116,475.92 
 89,329.02 
 2,932.07 
 163,203.33 
 58,733.14 
 7,331.23 
439,470.51 

140

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Employment and employees 
Employee involvement and training: The Company continues to observe industrial relations practices such as the Joint Consultative 
Committee and briefing employees on the developments in the Company during the year under review. Various incentive schemes for staff 
were maintained during the year while regular training courses were carried out for the employees. Educational assistance is provided to 
members of staff. Different cadres of staff were also assisted with payment of subscriptions to various professional bodies during the year. 
The Company provides appropriate HSSE training to all staff, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to the appropriate staff.

Health, safety and welfare of employees: The Company continues to enforce strict health and safety rules and practices at the work 
environment which are reviewed and tested regularly. The Company provides free medical care for its employees and their families through 
designated hospitals and clinics. Fire prevention and fire-fighting equipment is installed in strategic locations within the Company’s 
premises. The Company operates Group life insurance cover for the benefit of its employees. It also complies with the requirements of the 
Pension Reform Act, 2004 regarding its employees.

Employment of disabled or physically challenged persons: The Company has a policy of fair consideration of job applications by disabled 
persons having regard to their abilities and aptitude. The Company’s policy prohibits discrimination of disabled persons in the recruitment, 
training and career development of its employees. As at the end of the reporting period, the Group has no disabled persons in employment.

Brexit
It is the view of the Board that, given the Group’s single country focus on Nigeria, Seplat’s business, assets and operations will not be 
materially affected by Brexit. Seplat also derives most of its income from crude oil, a globally traded commodity which is priced in US Dollars. 
Furthermore, Seplat’s gas revenues are derived solely from sales to the domestic market in Nigeria and therefore are unaffected by 
international factors. 

Auditor
The auditor, PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC), has indicated its willingness to continue in office in accordance with Section 401(2)  
of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020. A resolution will be proposed at the AGM for the re-appointment of PriceWaterhouseCoopers 
(PWC) as the Company’s auditor and for authorisation to the Board of Directors to fix the auditors’ remuneration.

Assurance service 
Logic Professional Services provided Actuary Valuation Services on the 2020 financial statements. The assurance was signed by Ganiu Dare 
Shefiu (FRC/2017/NAS/00000017548).

By Order of the Board

Edith Onwuchekwa 
FRC/2013/NBA/00000003660 
Company Secretary  
Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc  
16A Temple Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria 

1 March 2021 

141

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Statement of Directors’ Responsibilities 
For the year ended 31 December 2020 

The Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020, requires the Directors 
to prepare financial statements for each financial year that gives a 
true and fair view of the state of financial affairs of the Group at the 
end of the year and of its profit or loss. The responsibilities include 
ensuring that the Group: 

1. 

2. 

3. 

 keeps proper accounting records that disclose, with reasonable 
accuracy, the financial position of the Group and comply with the 
requirements of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020; 

 establishes adequate internal controls to safeguard its assets 
and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities; and 

 prepares its financial statements using suitable accounting 
policies supported by reasonable and prudent judgements and 
estimates and are consistently applied. 

The Directors accept responsibility for the annual financial 
statements, which have been prepared using appropriate accounting 
policies supported by reasonable and prudent judgements and 
estimates, in conformity with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRS), the requirements of the Companies and Allied 
Matters Act, 2020 and Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria Act,  
No. 6, 2011. 

The Directors are of the opinion that the financial statements gives a 
true and fair view of the state of the financial affairs of the Group and 
of its financial performance and cash flows for the year. The 
Directors further accept responsibility for the maintenance of 
accounting records that may be relied upon in the preparation of 
financial statements, as well as adequate systems of internal 
financial control. 

Nothing has come to the attention of the Directors to indicate that 
the Group will not remain a going concern for at least 12 months from 
the date of this statement. 

Signed on behalf of the Directors by: 

A.B.C. Orjiako  
Chairman  
FRC/2014/IODN/00000003161 

R.T. Brown  
Chief Executive Officer  
FRC/2014/ANAN/00000017939

1 March 2021  

1 March 2021

142

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Audit Committee’s Report 
For the year ended 31 December 2020 

To the members of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc 

In accordance with the provisions of Section 404 (7) of the 
Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020, members of the Audit 
Committee of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc hereby 
report on the financial statements of the Group for the year ended 
31 December 2020 as follows: 

•  The scope and plan of the audit for the year ended 31 December 

2020 were adequate; 

•  We have reviewed the financial statements and are satisfied with 

the explanations and comments obtained; 

•  We have reviewed the external auditors’ management letter for the 
year and are satisfied with the management’s responses and that 
management has taken appropriate steps to address the issues 
raised by the Auditors; 

•  We are of the opinion that the accounting and reporting policies of 

the Company are in accordance with legal requirements and 
ethical practices. 

The external Auditors confirmed having received full co-operation 
from the Company’s management in the course of the statutory audit 
and that the scope of their work was not restricted in any way. 

Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN  
Chairman, Audit Committee  
FRC/2015/NBA/00000010414

1 March 2021 

143

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Statement of Corporate Responsibility 
For the year ended 31 December 2020 

In line with the provision of S.405 of CAMA 2020, we have reviewed 
the audited financial statements of the Group for the year ended 
31 December 2020 and based on our knowledge confirm as follows:

1. 

2. 

3. 

 The audited financial statements do not contain any untrue 
statement of material fact or omit to state a material fact,  
which would make the statements misleading.

 The audited financial statements and all other financial 
information included in the statements fairly present, in all 
material respects, the financial condition and results of 
operation of the Company as of and for, the period ended 
31 December 2020.

 The Company’s internal controls has been designed to ensure 
that all material information included relating to the Company 
and its subsidiaries is received and provided to the Auditors in 
the course of the Audit.

4. 

 The Company’s internal controls were evaluated within 90 days  
of the financial reporting date and are effective as of 
31 December 2020.

5. 

 That we have disclosed to the Company’s Auditor’s and the Audit 
Committee the following information:

a.  There are no significant deficiencies in the design or operation 
of the Company’s internal control which could adversely affect 
the Company’s ability to record, process, summarise and 
report financial data, and have discussed with the auditors  
any weaknesses in internal controls observed in the cause of 
the Audit.

b.  There is no fraud involving management or other employ needs 

which could have any significant role in the Company’s 
internal  control.

6. 

 There are no significant changes in internal controls or in other 
factors that could significantly affect internal controls 
subsequent to the date of this audit, including any corrective 
actions with regard to any observed deficiencies and 
material  weaknesses.

R.T. Brown  
FRC/2014/ANAN/00000017939 
Chief Executive Officer 

E.Onwuka  
FRC/2020/003/00000020861 
Chief Financial Officer

1 March 2021 

1 March 2021

144

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
146

Independent auditors’ report  
Consolidated statement of profit  
149
or loss and other comprehensive income 
151
Consolidated statement of financial position 
152
Consolidated statement of changes in equity 
Consolidated statement of cash flows 
154
Notes to the consolidated financial statements  155
234
Consolidated statement of value added 
235
Consolidated five-year financial summary 
Consolidated supplementary financial  
information (unaudited) 

236

145– 
237

CONSOLIDATED 
STATEMENTS

Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc

Annual Report and Accounts 2020

145

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—145Financial Statements   145—308Independent auditor’s report 
To the Members of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc

Report on the audit of the consolidated and separate financial statements 

Our opinion 
In our opinion, the consolidated and separate financial statements give a true and fair view of the consolidated and separate financial 
position of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc (“the Company”) and its subsidiaries (together “the group”) as at 31 December 
2020, and of their consolidated and separate financial performance and their consolidated and separate cash flows for the year then ended 
in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and the requirements of the Companies and Allied Matters Act and the 
Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria Act. 

What we have audited
Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc’s consolidated and separate financial statements comprise:

• the consolidated and separate statements of profit or loss and other comprehensive income for the year then ended 31 December 2020;

• the consolidated and separate statements of financial position as at 31 December 2020;

• the consolidated and separate statements of changes in equity for the year then ended;

• the consolidated and separate statements of cash flows for the year then ended; and

• the notes to the consolidated and separate financial statements, which include a summary of significant accounting policies. 

Basis for opinion 
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISAs). Our responsibilities under those standards are 
further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated and separate financial statements section of our report. 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

Independence
We are independent of the Group in accordance with the International Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including International 
Independence Standards), i.e. the IESBA Code issued by the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants. We have fulfilled our 
other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the IESBA Code. 

Key audit matters 
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the consolidated and 
separate financial statements of the current period. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the consolidated and 
separate financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

How our audit addressed the key audit matter

Our procedures were as follows:
• We evaluated the competence, independence and objectivity  
of management’s experts. We understood their methods and 
evaluated the relevance and reasonableness of the assumptions 
used by them in determining the proved and probable oil and 
gas reserves. 

• We tested how management determined the recoverable amount 

of the group’s CGUs which included the following:

•  involving our specialist in evaluating the appropriateness of the 

models used by management in making these estimates.

• testing the data used in determining these estimates.

•  evaluating the reasonableness of significant assumptions with 
regard to future development and production costs, forecasted 
oil and gas prices, volume of reserves, reserves life and discount 
rate used in developing the underlying estimates.

• We recalculated the unit-of-production rate to determine the 
depletion expense included in the DD&A of the group’s CGUs.

• We evaluated the adequacy of the disclosures in the group 

financial statements.

Key audit matter

The impact of crude oil and gas reserves on Oil and Gas properties 
(Impairments and Depletion, Depreciation and Amortisation – 
DD&A).
This is considered a key audit matter due to the significant judgment 
made by management through the use of experts, when developing 
the expected future cash flows of oil and gas properties and the 
proved and probable oil and gas reserves involving the use of 
significant assumptions.

(a) Oil and gas properties are grouped for recoverability assessment 
purposes into Cash Generating Units (CGUs). Management assesses 
its CGUs for indicators of impairment that suggest the carrying 
amount may exceed its recoverable amount. Impairment is 
identified by comparing the recoverable amount of the CGU to its 
carrying amount. This involves the calculation of discounted 
after-tax cash flows of proved and probable oil and gas reserves 
based on significant assumptions including, future development 
and production costs, forecasted oil and gas prices, volume of 
reserves, reserves life and discount rate.

(b) Depletion of all capitalized costs of proved oil and gas properties 
(included in DD&A) are expensed using the unit-of-production 
method as the proved developed reserves are produced. 

The group’s upstream oil and gas properties net balance was 
$1.60  billion as of December 31, 2020, and related depletion 
expense was $125.99 million. Impairments of $114.40 million  
was recognised for the year ended December 31, 2020. 

The accounting policies, estimates and disclosures are set out in 
Notes 3.9, 5, 12.2, 17.1 and 17.6.

This was considered a key audit matter in the consolidated financial 
statements only.

146

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Other information 
The directors are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises Report of the Directors, Statement of Directors’ 
Responsibilities, Audit Committee’s Report, Statement of Corporate Response Responsibility, Value Added Statement, Five-Year Financial 
Summary and Supplementary Financial Information but does not include the consolidated and separate financial statements and our 
auditor’s report thereon, which we obtained prior to the date of this auditor’s report, and the other sections of the Seplat Petroleum 
Development Company Plc 2020 Annual Report, which are expected to be made available to us after that date.

Our opinion on the consolidated and separate financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not and will not express 
an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the consolidated and separate financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information 
identified above and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the consolidated and separate 
financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

If, based on the work we have performed on the other information that we obtained prior to the date of this auditor’s report, we conclude 
that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

When we read the other sections of the Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc 2020 Annual Report, if we conclude that there is a 
material misstatement therein, we are required to communicate the matter to those charged with governance.

Responsibilities of the directors and those charged with governance for the consolidated and separate financial statements 
The directors are responsible for the preparation of the consolidated and separate financial statements that give a true and fair view in 
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and the requirements of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, the Financial 
Reporting Council of Nigeria Act, and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of 
consolidated and separate financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

In preparing the consolidated and separate financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s ability to continue 
as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the 
directors either intend to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

Those charged with governance are responsible for overseeing the Group’s financial reporting process.

147

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Independent auditor’s report | continued
To the Members of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the consolidated and separate financial statements 
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated and separate financial statements as a whole are free 
from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable 
assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs will always detect a material 
misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, 
they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these consolidated and separate 
financial statements. 

As part of an audit in accordance with ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. 
We also:

• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated and separate financial statements, whether due to fraud  

or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to 
provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting  
from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. 

• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the 

circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s internal control. 

• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures  

made by the directors. 

• Conclude on the appropriateness of directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, 

whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as  
a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related 
disclosures in the consolidated and separate financial statements or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our 
conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may 
cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern. 

• Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated and separate financial statements, including the disclosures, 

and whether the consolidated and separate financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that 
achieves fair presentation.

• Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities within the Group to 

express an opinion on the consolidated and separate financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and 
performance of the group audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and 
significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. 

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding 
independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our 
independence, and where applicable, related safeguards.

From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the 
audit of the consolidated and separate financial statements of the current period and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe 
these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare 
circumstances, we determine that a matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so 
would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication. 

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements 
The Companies and Allied Matters Act requires that in carrying out our audit we consider and report to you on the following matters. We 
confirm that:

i.  we have obtained all the information and explanations which to the best of our knowledge and belief were necessary for the purposes of 

our audit;

ii.  the Company has kept proper books of account, so far as appears from our examination of those books and returns adequate for our 

audit have been received from branches not visited by us;

iii. the Company’s statement of financial position and statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income are in agreement with the 

books of account and returns. 

For: PricewaterhouseCoopers   
Chartered Accountants  
Lagos, Nigeria 
Engagement Partner: Pedro Omontuemhen 
FRC/2013/ICAN/00000000739 
1 March 2021

148

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income 
For the year ended 31 December 2020

Continuing operations
Revenue from contracts with customers
Cost of sales
Gross profit
Other income
General and administrative expenses
Impairment loss on financial assets
Impairment losses on non-financial assets
Fair value (loss)/gain
Operating (loss)/profit
Finance income 
Finance cost
Finance cost-net
Share of profit from joint venture accounted for using the 
equity method
(Loss)/Profit before taxation
Income tax expense
(Loss)/profit from continued operations
Profit from discontinued operations
(Loss)/Profit for the year

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

(Loss)/Earnings per share from continuing operations
Basic (loss)/earnings per share (₦)/$
Diluted (loss)/earnings per share (₦)/$
(Loss)/Earnings per share for the year
Basic (loss)/earnings per share (₦)/$
Diluted (loss)/earnings per share (₦)/$

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

Notes

₦ million

₦ million

$’000

$’000

8
9

10
11
12
12
13

14
14

22

15

39
39

39
39

 190,922 
 (146,088)
 44,834 
30,184
 (27,372)
 (10,778)
 (41,175)
 (7,111)
 (11,418)
 601 
 (18,656)
 (18,055)

601 
 (28,872)
 (1,840)
 (30,712)
 – 
 (30,712)

214,157
 (92,698)
 121,459 
 9,170 
 (21,675)
 (14,911)
 – 
 1,706 
 95,749 
 4,134 
 (10,294)
 (6,160)

325 
 89,914 
 (8,939)
 80,975 
 4,041 
 85,016 

 530,467 
 (405,892)
124,575
83,864
(76,047)
(29,947)
(114,402)
(19,759)
(31,716)
1,671
(51,834)
(50,163)

1,670
(80,209)
 (5,113)
 (85,322)
 – 
 (85,322)

697,777
 (302,039)
 395,738 
 29,876 
 (70,617)
 (48,581)
 – 
 5,559 
 311,975 
 13,471 
 (33,539)
 (20,068)

 1,060 
 292,967 
 (29,125)
 263,842 
 13,166 
 277,008 

 (26,906)
 (3,806)
 (30,712)

 85,016 
 – 
 85,016 

 (74,747)
 (10,575)
 (85,322)

 277,008 
 – 
 277,008 

(46.42)
(45.72)

(46.42)
(45.72)

142.25
139.22

149.35
146.17

(0.13)
(0.13)

(0.13)
(0.13)

0.46
0.45

0.49
0.48

Notes 1 to 50 on pages 155-236 are an integral part of these financial statements.

149

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income | continued
For the year ended 31 December 2020

(Loss)/profit for the year
Other comprehensive income:
Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss:
Foreign currency translation difference
Items that will not be reclassified to  
profit or loss:
Remeasurement of post-employment benefit obligations
Deferred tax credit on remeasurement losses

Other comprehensive income/(loss) for the year (net of tax)
Total comprehensive income/(loss) for the period

Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

Notes

₦ million

₦ million

$’000

$’000

 (30,712)

 85,016 

 (85,322)

 277,008 

128,379

 (243)

 (1,399)

 (750)

35

 29
(25)
 4
128,383
97,671

101,477
 (3,806)
97,671

 (201)
171
 (30)
 (273)
 84,743 

 84,743 
 – 
 84,743 

 81
(69)
 12
 (1,387)
 (86,709)

 (656)
558
 (98)
 (848)
 276,160 

 (76,134)
 (10,575)
 (86,709)

 276,160 
 – 
 276,160 

The above year end consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income should be read in conjunction with the 
accompanying notes.

150

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Consolidated statement of financial position
As at 31 December 2020

Assets
Non-current assets
Oil & gas properties
Other property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Other asset
Investment accounted for using equity accounting 
Prepayments
Deferred tax asset
Total non-current assets
Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Prepayments
Contract assets
Derivative financial instruments
Cash and cash equivalents
Total current assets
Total assets
Equity and liabilities
Equity
Issued share capital
Share premium
Share-based payment reserve
Capital contribution 
Retained earnings
Foreign currency translation reserve
Non-controlling interest
Total shareholders’ equity
Non-current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Lease liabilities
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Deferred tax liabilities
Defined benefit plan
Total non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Lease liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
Trade and other payables
Contingent liability
Contract liabilities
Current tax liabilities
Total current liabilities
Total liabilities
Total shareholders’ equity and liabilities

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

Notes

₦ million

₦ million

$’000

$’000

17
17
19
20
18
22
21
15

23
24
21
25
26
27

28
28
28
29

30
22

31
32
34

35

31
32
26
36
33
37
15

609,475
 5,330 
 3,965 
22,301
44,630
 84,642 
 23,463 
289,877
1,083,683

 28,337 
 96,774 
 1,385 
 2,343 
 – 
 98,315 
 227,154 
1,310,837

 293 
 86,917 
7,174
 5,932 
 211,790 
 331,289 
 (11,058)
 632,337 

229,880
 1,591 
61,795
202,020
4,063
499,349

35,518
 679 
626
130,468
 – 
 3,599 
 8,261 
 179,151 
678,500
1,310,837

 478,372 
 4,360 
 4,026 
 53,592 
 40,190 
 49,448 
 19,309 
 68,367 
 717,664 

 25,944 
 149,436 
 1,965 
 6,527 
 457 
 102,240 
 286,569 
 1,004,233 

 289 
 84,045 
 8,194 
 5,932 
 259,690 
 202,910 
 (7,252)
 553,808 

 207,863 
 2,617 
 45,411 
 – 
 3,012 
 258,903 

 34,486 
 212 
 – 
 143,925 
 2,215 
 5,005 
 5,679 
 191,522 
 450,425 
 1,004,233 

1,603,888
 14,027 
 10,435 
 58,687 
 117,448 
 222,741 
 61,744 
762,833
2,851,803

 74,570 
 254,671 
 3,644 
 6,167 
 – 
 258,718 
 597,770 
3,449,573

 1,855 
 511,723 
 27,592 
 40,000 
 1,116,079 
 992 
 (34,196)
 1,664,045 

604,947
 4,187 
162,619
531,632
10,691
1,314,076

93,468
 1,787 
1,648
343,340
 – 
 9,470 
 21,739 
 471,452 
1,785,528
3,449,573

 1,558,213 
 14,201 
 13,115 
 174,566 
 130,915 
 161,071 
 62,892 
 222,697 
 2,337,670 

 84,508 
 486,762 
 6,397 
 21,259 
 1,486 
 333,028 
 933,440 
 3,271,110 

 1,845 
 503,742 
 30,426 
 40,000 
 1,249,156 
 2,391 
 (23,621)
 1,803,939 

 677,075 
 8,518 
 147,921 
 – 
 9,808 
 843,322 

 112,333 
 692 
 – 
 468,804 
 7,217 
 16,301 
 18,502 
 623,849 
 1,467,171 
 3,271,110 

Notes 1 to 50 on pages 155-236 are an integral part of these financial statements.

The financial statements of Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc and its subsidiaries (the Group) for the year ended 31 December 
2020 were authorised for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Directors on 28 February 2021 and were signed on its behalf by

A.B.C. Orjiako  
FRC/2013/IODN/00000003161  
Chairman 
1 March 2021

R.T. Brown 
FRC/2014/ANAN/00000017939  
Chief Executive Officer 
1 March 2021

E. Onwuka  
FRC/2020/003/00000020861 
Chief Financial Officer 
1 March 2021

151

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Consolidated statement of changes in equity 
For the year ended 31 December 2020

At 1 January 2019
Profit/(loss) for the year
Other comprehensive loss
Total comprehensive income/(loss) 
for the year
Transactions with owners in their 
capacity as owners:
Dividends paid
Share-based payments  
(Note 28.4)
Vested shares
Non-controlling interest on 
acquisition of subsidiaries
Total
At 31 December 2019

At 1 January 2020
Profit/(loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive (loss)/ 
income for the year
Transactions with owners in their 
capacity as owners:
Dividends paid
Share-based payments  
(Note 28.4)
Vested shares
Total
At 31 December 2020

Issued  
share  
capital
₦ million
286
 –
 –

Share  
premium
₦ million
82,080
 –
 –

Share 
based 
payment
reserve
₦ million
7,298
 –
 –

 –

 –

 –

 –

 –
1,965

2,864
(1,968)

 –
1,965 
84,045

84,045
 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

–
896
8,194

8,194
 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

Capital  
contribution
₦ million
5,932
 –
 –

Retained
earnings
₦ million
192,723
 85,016 
 (30)

Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
₦ million
203,153
 – 
(243)

Non- 
controlling 
interest
₦ million
 –
 –
 –

Total 
equity
₦ million
491,472
 85,016 
 (273)

 –

 84,986 

 (243)

 –

 84,743

 –

 –
 –

(18,019)

 –
 –

–

 –
 –

 –

 –
 –

(18,019)

2,864
 –

 –
 – 
5,932

5,932
 – 
 – 

 –
(18,019)
259,690

 –
 – 
202,910

(7,252)
(7,252)
(7,252)

 (7,252)
(22,407)
553,808

259,690
 (26,906)
 4

202,910
 – 
128,379

(7,252)
 (3,806)
 – 

553,808
 (30,712)
128,383

 – 

 (26,902)

128,379

 (3,806)

97,671

 – 

(20,998)

 – 

 – 

(20,998)

 – 
2,872
2,872
86,917

1,856
 (2,876)
 (1,020)
7,174

 – 
 – 
 – 
 5,932 

 – 
 – 
(20,998)
211,790

 – 
 – 
 – 
331,289

 – 
 – 
 – 
 (11,058)

1,856
 – 
(19,142)
632,337

 –

 –

 –
 3

 –
 3 
289

289
 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 
 4 
 4 
 293 

Notes 1 to 50 on pages 155-236 are an integral part of these financial statements.

152

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020At 1 January 2019
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive loss
Total comprehensive 
 income for the year
Transactions with owners in their 
capacity as owners:
Dividends paid
Share-based payments (Note 28.4)
Vested shares
Non-controlling interest on 
acquisition of subsidiary
Total
At 31 December 2019

At 1 January 2020
Profit/(loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income/(loss)
Total comprehensive loss for the year
Transactions with owners in their 
capacity as owners:
Dividends paid
Share-based payments (Note 28.4)
Vested shares
Total
At 31 December 2020

Issued  
share  
capital
$’000

1,834 
 – 
 – 

Share  
premium
$’000

 497,457 
 – 
 – 

Share 
based 
payment
reserve
$’000

 27,499 
 – 
 – 

Capital  
contribution
$’000

Retained
earnings
$’000

 40,000 
 – 
 – 

 1,030,954 
 277,008 
 (98)

Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
$’000

 3,141 
 – 
 (750)

Non-
controlling 
interest
$’000

Total 
equity 
$’000

– 1,600,885 
 277,008 
–
 (848)
–

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 276,910 

 (750)

–

 276,160 

 – 
 – 
 11 

 11 
 1,845 

 1,845 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 10 
 10 
 1,855

 – 
 – 
6,285 

 – 
6,285 
 503,742

 503,742
 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
7,981
7,981
 511,723 

 – 
9,223
(6,296)

–
2,927
30,426

30,426
 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
5,157
 (7,991)
 (2,834)
 27,592 

 – 
 – 
 – 

(58,708) 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

–
–
–

 (58,708)
9,223 
 – 

 – 
 – 

 – 
(58,708) 
40,000  1,249,156

 – 
 – 
2,391

 (23,621)
 (23,621)
 (73,106)
(23,621)
 (23,621) 1,803,939

40,000 
 – 
 – 
 – 

1,249,156
 (74,747)
 12
 (74,735)

2,391
 – 
 (1,399)
 (1,399)

 (23,621) 1,803,939
 (85,322)
 (10,575)
(1,387)
 – 
 (86,709)
 (10,575)

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 40,000 

 (58,342)
 – 
 – 
 (58,342)
1,116,079

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 992 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 (58,342)
5,157
 – 
 (53,185)
 (34,196) 1,664,045

Notes 1 to 50 on pages 155-236 are an integral part of these financial statements.

153

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Consolidated statement of cash flows
For the year ended 31 December 2020

Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
Tax paid
Defined benefits paid
Contribution to plan assets
Hedge premium paid
Net cash inflows from operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Payment for acquisition of oil and gas properties
Proceeds from disposal of oil and gas properties
Payment for acquisition of other property, plant and 
equipment
Payment for acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired
Cash on loss of control of subsidiary
Payment for investment in joint venture
Proceeds from disposal of other property, plant and 
equipment
Receipts from other asset
Interest received
Net cash outflows from investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Repayments of loans
Proceeds from loans
Dividends paid 
Lease payments
Payments for other financing charges
Interest paid on loans
Net cash (outflows)/inflows from financing activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash 
equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2019

Notes

₦ million

₦ million

$’000

$’000

16
15
35
35
13

17
17

17

22

17
18
14

31
31
40
32
31
31

27

 118,558 
 (2,337)
 (77)
 (601)
(3,016)
112,527

(52,090)
 – 

 (1,872)
 – 
 – 
 (21,595)

 1 
1,705
 601 
 (73,250)

 (35,991)
 3,599 
 (20,998)
 (1,858)
 – 
(23,310)
 (78,558)
 (39,281)
 100,184 

24,651
85,554

 104,714 
 (1,084)
 (86)
 – 
–
 103,544 

(35,091)
 15,527 

 (3,203)
 (138,479)
 (47,352)
 (31,627)

 – 
 11,106 
 4,134 
(224,985)

 (30,690)
 106,345 
 (18,019)
 – 
 (2,696)
 (10,364)
 44,576 
 (76,865)
 178,460 

 (1,411)
100,184

329,414
 (10,431)
 (213)
 (1,670)
(8,380)
 308,720 

(144,729)
–

 (5,202)
 – 
 – 
 (60,000)

 3 
4,737
 1,671 
(203,520)

 (100,000)
 10,000 
 (58,342)
 (4,334)
 – 
(64,767)
 (217,443)
 (112,243)
 326,330 

11,050
225,137

341,571
 (3,533)
 (280)
 – 
–
 337,758 

(114,339)
 50,614 

 (10,438)
 (451,199)
 (154,240)
 (103,050)

 – 
 36,185 
 13,471 
(732,996)

 (100,000)
 346,500 
 (58,708)
 – 
 (8,783)
 (33,770)
 145,239 
 (249,999)
 581,305 

 (4,976)
326,330

For the purposes of the cash flow statements, the restricted cash balance of $12.8 million, ₦ 4.8 billion has been excluded from the cash and 
cash equivalents at the end of the year. These amounts are subject to legal restrictions and are therefore not available for general use by the 
Group.

An additional $20.8 million, ₦ 7.9 billion, of funds deposited in Access bank Plc bank accounts in the ordinary course of business are being 
unilaterally restricted by Access bank Plc in connection with the court case between Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc and Access 
bank Plc.

Notes 1 to 50 on pages 155-236 are an integral part of these financial statements. 

154

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Notes to the consolidated financial statements

1. 

Corporate structure and business

Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc (‘Seplat’ or the ‘Company’), the parent of the Group, was incorporated on 17 June 2009 as a 
private limited liability company and re-registered as a public company on 3 October 2014, under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAP 
C20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. The Company commenced operations on 1 August 2010. The Company was principally engaged in 
oil and gas exploration and production and gas processing activities. The Company’s registered address is: 16a Temple Road (Olu Holloway), 
Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria.

The Company acquired, pursuant to an agreement for assignment dated 31 January 2010 between the Company, SPDC, TOTAL and AGIP, a 
45% participating interest in OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 located in Nigeria. 

In 2013, Newton Energy Limited (‘Newton Energy’), an entity previously beneficially owned by the same shareholders as Seplat, became a 
subsidiary of the Company. On 1 June 2013, Newton Energy acquired from Pillar Oil Limited (‘Pillar Oil’) a 40% Participant interest in producing 
assets: the Umuseti/Igbuku marginal field area located within OPL 283 (the ‘Umuseti/Igbuku Fields’). 

On 21 August 2014, the Group incorporated a new subsidiary, Seplat Petroleum Development UK Limited. The subsidiary provides technical, 
liaison and administrative support services relating to oil and gas exploration activities.

On 12 December 2014, Seplat Gas Company Limited (‘Seplat Gas’) was incorporated as a private limited liability company to engage in oil and 
gas exploration and production and gas processing. On 12 December 2014, the Group also incorporated a new subsidiary, Seplat East Swamp 
Company Limited with the principal activity of oil and gas exploration and production.

In 2015, the Group purchased a 40% participating interest in OML 53, onshore north eastern Niger Delta (Seplat East Onshore Limited), from 
Chevron Nigeria Ltd for ₦79.6 billion.

On 16 January 2018, the Group incorporated a subsidiary, Seplat West Limited (‘Seplat West’). Seplat West was incorporated to manage the 
producing assets of Seplat Plc.

In 2017, the Group incorporated a new subsidiary, ANOH Gas Processing Company Limited. The principal activity of the Company is the 
processing of gas from OML 53 using the ANOH gas processing plant.

In order to fund the development of the ANOH gas processing plant, on 13 August 2018, the Group entered into a shareholders' agreement 
with Nigerian Gas Processing and Transportation Company (NGPTC). Funding is to be provided by both parties in equal proportion 
representing their ownership share and will be used to subscribe for the ordinary shares in ANOH. The agreement was effective on 18 April 
2019, which was the date the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) approval was received. Given the change in ownership structure as at 31 
December 2019, the Group no longer exercises control and has deconsolidated ANOH in the consolidated financial statements. However, its 
retained interest qualifies as a joint arrangement and has been recognised accordingly as investment in joint venture.

On 31 December 2019, Seplat Petroleum Development Company acquired 100% of Eland Oil and Gas Plc’s issued and yet to be issued 
ordinary shares. Eland is an independent oil and gas company that holds interest in subsidiaries and joint ventures that are into production, 
development and exploration in West Africa, particularly the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. 

On acquisition of Eland Oil and Gas Plc (Eland), the Group acquired indirect interest in existing subsidiaries of Eland.

Eland Oil & Gas (Nigeria) Limited, is a subsidiary acquired through the purchase of Eland and is into exploration and production of oil and gas.

Westport Oil Limited, which was also acquired through purchase of Eland is a financing company.

Elcrest Exploration and Production Company Limited (Elcrest) who became an indirect subsidiary of the Group purchased a 45% interest in 
OML 40 in 2012. Elcrest is a Joint Venture between Eland Oil and Gas (Nigeria) Limited (45%) and Starcrest Nigeria Energy Limited (55%). It has 
been consolidated because Eland is deemed to have power over the relevant activities of Elcrest to affect variable returns from Elcrest at the 
date of acquisition by the Group (see details in Note 4.1.vi). The principal activity of Elcrest is exploration and production of oil and gas.

Wester Ord Oil & Gas (Nigeria) Limited, who also became an indirect subsidiary of the Group acquired a 40% stake in a licence, Ubima, in 2014 
via a joint operations agreement. The principal activity of Wester Ord Oil & Gas (Nigeria) Limited is exploration and production of oil and gas.

Other entities acquired through the purchase of Eland are Tarland Oil Holdings Limited (a holding company), Brineland Petroleum Limited 
(dormant company) and Destination Natural Resources Limited (dormant company). 

On 1 January 2020, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc transferred its 45% participating interest in OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 
(‘transferred assets’) to Seplat West Limited. As a result, Seplat ceased to be a party to the Joint Operating Agreement in respect of the 
transferred assets and became a holding company. Seplat West Limited became a party to the Joint Operating Agreement in respect of the 
transferred assets and assumed its rights and obligations.

155

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The Company together with its subsidiaries as shown below are collectively referred to as the Group.

Subsidiary

Date of incorporation

Country of incorporation 
and place of business

Percentage  
holding

Principal activities

Nature of 
holding

Newton Energy Limited

1 June 2013

Nigeria

100%

Seplat Petroleum Development Company 
UK Limited

21 August 2014

United Kingdom

100%

Seplat Gas Company Limited

12 December 2014 Nigeria

Seplat East Onshore Limited

12 December 2014 Nigeria

Seplat East Swamp Company Limited

12 December 2014 Nigeria

Seplat West Limited
Eland Oil & Gas Limited

16 January 2018
28 August 2009

Nigeria
United Kingdom

Eland Oil & Gas (Nigeria) Limited
Elcrest Exploration and Production 
Nigeria Limited
Westport Oil Limited
Tarland Oil Holdings Limited
Brineland Petroleum Limited

11 August 2010

Nigeria

Nigeria
6 January 2011
Jersey
8 August 2011
16 July 2014
Jersey
18 February 2013 Nigeria

Wester Ord Oil & Gas (Nigeria) Limited
Wester Ord Oil and Gas Limited
Destination Natural Resources Limited

18 July 2014
16 July 2014
–

Nigeria
Jersey
Dubai

100%

100%

100%

100%
100%

100%

 45%
100%
100%
49%

100%
100%
70%

Direct

Direct

Direct

Direct

Oil & gas exploration  
and production
Technical, liaison and 
administrative support 
services relating to oil & gas 
exploration and production
Oil & gas exploration and 
production and gas processing Direct
Oil & gas exploration and 
production
Oil & gas exploration and 
production
Oil & gas exploration and 
production
Holding company
Oil & gas exploration and 
production
Oil & gas exploration and 
production
Financing
Holding Company
Dormant
Oil & gas exploration
and production
Holding Company
Dormant

Direct
Direct

Indirect
Indirect
Indirect
Indirect

Indirect
Indirect
Indirect

Indirect

2.  Significant changes in the current accounting period

The following significant changes occurred during the reporting period ended 31 December 2020:

Oil price has reduced significantly due to the global Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and other geopolitical events around the world. These 
recent events will continue to have an impact on oil price volatility. The Group will continue to monitor the oil price and take adequate steps to 
manage its business and any financial impact of same.

The Group’s operations are not affected by seasonality or cyclicality. The financial position and performance of the Group were particularly 
affected by the following events and transactions during the year ended 31 December 2020:

• There was a change in the Group’s operational structure which took effect on 1 January, 2020; Seplat Plc ceased to be a party to the Joint 
Operating Agreement (JOA) in respect of the Oil Mining Lease Numbers 4, 38 and 41 and transferred its right and obligation to Seplat West 
Limited. Seplat West Ltd became a party to the JOA and assumed the rights and obligations of the transferred assets. Seplat Plc is now a 
holding company.

• The Group recognised impairment loss of $114.4 million (₦ 41.1 billion) on its non-financial assets. The impairment is as a result of re-

assessment of future cash flow from the Group’s oil and gas properties due to significant fall in oil prices (see Note 12).

• The Group experienced a decline in the revenue from crude oil majorly due to the global Covid-19 pandemic.

• An explosion occurred during the installation of a ladder on a platform at the Benin River Valve Station on OML 40 in Delta State which is 
used for exporting Gbetiokun production. There was no major impact to the Group’s operation as the site of the incident is some distance 
from OML 40 field operations, which were unaffected.

• The Group’s interest-bearing borrowings included a four-year revolving loan facility of $350million (₦133billion). In October 2020, the Group 
made principal repayments on the four-year revolving facility for a lump sum of $100million (₦35.9billion). In the reporting period, the Group 
repaid the outstanding principal amount of ₦3.59 billion ($10million) on the revolving loan facility.

• During the year, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) adjusted the exchange rate from ₦ 307/$1 to ₦ 360/$1 on 20 March 2020 and from ₦ 360/$1 to 
₦ 380/$1 on 6 August 2020. This was done to unify the official exchange rate around the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange (NAFEX) rate.

3.  Summary of significant accounting policies

Introduction to summary of significant accounting policies 

3.1  
This note provides a list of the significant accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements. These 
accounting policies have been applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated. The financial statements are for the Group 
consisting of Seplat and its subsidiaries.

156

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.2  Basis of preparation 
The consolidated financial statements of the Group for the year ended 31 December 2020 have been prepared in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and interpretations issued by the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRSIC). The financial 
statements comply with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). Additional information required by national 
regulations is included where appropriate. 

The financial statements comprise the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statement of financial position, the 
statement of changes in equity, the statement of cash flows and the notes to the financial statements and have been prepared under the 
going concern assumption and historical cost convention, except for contingent liability and consideration, and financial instruments 
measured at fair value on initial recognition, defined benefit plans – plan assets measured at fair value and assets and liabilities acquired on 
business combination. The financial statements are presented in Nigerian Naira and United States dollars, and all values are rounded to the 
nearest million (₦’million) and thousand ($’000) respectively, except when otherwise indicated.

Nothing has come to the attention of the Directors to indicate that the Group will not remain a going concern for at least twelve months from 
the date of these financial statements.

3.3  New and amended standards adopted by the Group
The Group applied for the first-time certain standards and amendments, which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 
2020. The Group has not early adopted any other standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective.

Amendments to IFRS 3 Definition of a Business

a. 
The amendment to IFRS 3 clarifies that to be considered a business, an integrated set of activities and assets must include, at a minimum, an 
input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create output. Furthermore, it clarified that a business 
can exist without including all the inputs and processes needed to create outputs. These amendments had no impact on the consolidated 
financial statements of the Group but may impact future periods should the Group enter any business combinations.

Amendments to IFRS 9 and IAS 39 Interest Rate Benchmark Reform

b. 
These amendments to IFRS 9 and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement provide a number of reliefs, which apply to all 
hedging relationships that are directly affected by interest rate benchmark reform. A hedging relationship is affected if the reform gives rise 
to uncertainties about the timing and of amount of benchmark-based cash flows of the hedged item or the hedging instrument. These 
amendments had no impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Group as it does not have any interest rate hedge relationships.

Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8 Definition of Material

c. 
The amendments provide a new definition of material that states, “information is material if omitting, misstating or obscuring it could 
reasonably be expected to influence decisions that the primary users of general-purpose financial statements make on the basis of those 
financial statements, which provide financial information about a specific reporting entity.”

The amendments clarify that materiality will depend on the nature or magnitude of information, either individually or in combination with 
other information, in the context of the financial statements. A misstatement of information is material if it could reasonably be expected to 
influence decisions made by the primary users. These amendments had no impact on the consolidated financial statements of, nor is there 
expected to be any future impact to the Group.

Amendments to IFRS 16 Covid-19 Related Rent Concessions

d. 
On 28 May 2020, the IASB issued Covid-19 Related Rent Concessions – amendment to IFRS 16 Leases. The amendments provide relief to 
lessees from applying IFRS 16 guidance on lease modification accounting for rent concessions arising as a direct consequence of the 
Covid-19 pandemic. As a practical expedient, a lessee may elect not to assess whether a Covid-19 related rent concession from the lessor is  
a lease modification.

The amendment applies to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 June 2020. Earlier application is permitted. This amendment had 
no impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting issued on 29 March 2018

e. 
The Conceptual Framework is not a standard, and none of the concepts contained therein override the concepts or requirements in any 
standard. The purpose of the Conceptual Framework is to assist the IASB in developing standards, to help preparers develop consistent 
accounting policies where there is no applicable standard in place and to assist all parties to understand and interpret the standards.

The revised Conceptual Framework includes some new concepts, provides updated definitions and recognition criteria for assets and 
liabilities and clarifies some important concepts. 

These amendments had no impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Group.

3.4  Standards issued but not yet effective
The new and amended standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Group’s financial 
statements are disclosed below. The Group intends to adopt these new and amended standards and interpretations, if applicable, when they 
become effective.

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts

i. 
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts (IFRS 17), a comprehensive new accounting standard for insurance contracts 
covering recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure. Once effective, IFRS 17 will replace IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts (IFRS 4) that 
was issued in 2005. IFRS 17 applies to all types of insurance contracts (i.e., life, non-life, direct insurance and re-insurance), regardless of the 
type of entities that issue them, as well as to certain guarantees and financial instruments with discretionary participation features. A few 
scope exceptions will apply. The overall objective of IFRS 17 is to provide an accounting model for insurance contracts that is more useful and 
consistent for insurers. In contrast to the requirements in IFRS 4, which are largely based on grandfathering previous local accounting 
policies, IFRS 17 provides a comprehensive model for insurance contracts, covering all relevant accounting aspects.

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3.4  Standards issued but not yet effective continued

The core of IFRS 17 is the general model, supplemented by: 

• A specific adaptation for contracts with direct participation features (the variable fee approach) 

• A simplified approach (the premium allocation approach) mainly for short-duration contracts 

IFRS 17 is effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2023, with comparative figures required. Early application is 
permitted, provided the entity also applies IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 on or before the date it first applies IFRS 17. This standard is not applicable to 
the Group. 

Amendments to IAS 1: Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current

ii. 
In January 2020, the IASB issued amendments to paragraphs 69 to 76 of IAS 1 to specify the requirements for classifying liabilities as current 
or non-current. The amendments clarify: 

• What is meant by a right to defer settlement 

• That a right to defer must exist at the end of the reporting period 

• That classification is unaffected by the likelihood that an entity will exercise its deferral right 

• That only if an embedded derivative in a convertible liability is itself an equity instrument would the terms of a liability not impact its 

classification 

The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2023 and must be applied retrospectively.  
The Group is currently assessing the impact the amendments will have on current practice and whether existing loan agreements may 
require renegotiation.

Reference to the Conceptual Framework – Amendments to IFRS 3

iii. 
In May 2020, the IASB issued Amendments to IFRS 3 Business Combinations – Reference to the Conceptual Framework. The amendments 
are intended to replace a reference to the Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements, issued in 1989, with a 
reference to the Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting issued in March 2018 without significantly changing its requirements. 

The Board also added an exception to the recognition principle of IFRS 3 to avoid the issue of potential ‘day 2’ gains or losses arising for 
liabilities and contingent liabilities that would be within the scope of IAS 37 or IFRIC 21 Levies, if incurred separately. 

At the same time, the Board decided to clarify existing guidance in IFRS 3 for contingent assets that would not be affected by replacing the 
reference to the Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements. 

The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022 and apply prospectively.

Property, Plant and Equipment – Proceeds before Intended Use – Amendments to IAS 16

iv. 
In May 2020, the IASB issued Property, Plant and Equipment – Proceeds before Intended Use, which prohibits entities deducting from the 
cost of an item of property, plant and equipment, any proceeds from selling items produced while bringing that asset to the location and 
condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Instead, an entity recognises the proceeds from 
selling such items, and the costs of producing those items, in profit or loss. 

The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022 and must be applied retrospectively to items of 
property, plant and equipment made available for use on or after the beginning of the earliest period presented when the entity first applies 
the amendment. 

The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Group. 

Interest Rate Benchmark Reform – Phase 2 – Amendments to IFRS 9, IAS 39, IFRS 7, IFRS 4 and IFRS 16

v. 
The amendments provide temporary reliefs which address the financial reporting effects when an interbank offered rate (IBOR) is replaced 
with an alternative nearly risk-free interest rate (RFR).

The amendments include a practical expedient to require contractual changes, or changes to cash flows that are directly required by the 
reform, to be treated as changes to a floating interest rate, equivalent to a movement in a market rate of interest. Inherent in allowing the  
use of this practical expedient is the requirement that the transition from an IBOR benchmark rate to an RFR takes place on an economically 
equivalent basis with no value transfer having occurred.

The practical expedient is required for entities applying IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts that are using the exemption from IFRS 9 Financial 
Instruments (and, therefore, apply IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement) and for IFRS 16 Leases, to lease 
modifications required by IBOR reform.

The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2021 with earlier application permitted. While 
application is retrospective, an entity is not required to restate prior periods. 

Onerous Contracts- Costs of Fulfilling a Contract – Amendments to IAS 37

vi. 
In May 2020, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 37 to specify which costs an entity needs to include when assessing whether a contract is 
onerous or loss-making. 

The amendments apply a “directly related cost approach”. The costs that relate directly to a contract to provide goods or services include both 
incremental costs and an allocation of costs directly related to contract activities. General and administrative costs do not relate directly to  
a contract and are excluded unless they are explicitly chargeable to the counterparty under the contract. The amendments are effective for 
annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022. The Group will apply these amendments to contracts for which it has not yet 
fulfilled all its obligations at the beginning of the annual reporting period in which it first applies the amendments.

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Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020IFRS 9 Financial Instruments – Fees in the ‘10 per cent’ test for derecognition of financial liabilities

vii. 
As part of its 2018-2020 annual improvements to IFRS standards process the IASB issued an amendment to IFRS 9. The amendment clarifies 
the fees that an entity includes when assessing whether the terms of a new or modified financial liability are substantially different from the 
terms of the original financial liability. These fees include only those paid or received between the borrower and the lender, including fees paid 
or received by either the borrower or lender on the other’s behalf. An entity applies the amendment to financial liabilities that are modified or 
exchanged on or after the beginning of the annual reporting period in which the entity first applies the amendment. 

The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022 with earlier adoption permitted. The Group will 
apply the amendments to financial liabilities that are modified or exchanged on or after the beginning of the annual reporting period in which 
the entity first applies the amendment. 

The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Group.

IAS 41 Agriculture – Taxation in fair value measurements

viii. 
As part of its 2018-2020 annual improvements to IFRS standards process the IASB issued amendment to IAS 41 Agriculture. The amendment 
removes the requirement in paragraph 22 of IAS 41 that entities exclude cash flows for taxation when measuring the fair value of assets within 
the scope of IAS 41. 

An entity applies the amendment prospectively to fair value measurements on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period 
beginning on or after 1 January 2022 with earlier adoption permitted. 

The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Group.

3.5  Basis of consolidation 
i. 
Subsidiaries are all entities (including structured entities) over which the Group has control.

Subsidiaries

The consolidated financial information comprises the financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries as at 31 December 2020. 
Control is achieved when the Group is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to 
affect those returns through its power over the investee. Specifically, the Group controls an investee if and only if the Group has: 

• Power over the investee (i.e. existing rights that give it the current ability to direct the relevant activities of the investee);

• Exposure, or rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee; and

• The ability to use its power over the investee to affect its returns. 

Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date on which control is obtained by the Group and are deconsolidated from the date control ceases.

Generally, there is a presumption that a majority of voting rights results in control. To support this presumption and when the Group has less 
than a majority of the voting or similar rights of an investee, the Group considers all relevant facts and circumstances in assessing whether it 
has power over an investee, including:

• The contractual arrangement(s) with the other vote holders of the investee

• Rights arising from other contractual arrangements

• The Group’s voting rights and potential voting rights

Change in the ownership interest of subsidiary

ii. 
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for business combinations by the Group.

Non -controlling interests in the results and equity of subsidiaries are shown separately in the consolidated statement of profit or loss and 
other comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of financial position respectively.

Intercompany transaction balances and unrealised gains on transactions between group companies are eliminated. Unrealised losses are 
also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the transferred asset. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have 
been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group. 

Disposal of subsidiary

iii. 
If the Group loses control over a subsidiary, it:

• Derecognises the assets (including goodwill) and liabilities of the subsidiary;

• Derecognises the carrying amount of any non-controlling interests;

• Derecognises the cumulative translation differences recorded in equity;

• Recognises the fair value of the consideration received;

• Recognises the fair value of any investment retained;

• Recognises any surplus or deficit in profit or loss; and

• Reclassifies the parent’s share of components previously recognised in OCI to profit or loss or retained earnings, as appropriate, as would be 

required if the Group had directly disposed of the related assets or liabilities.

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3.5  Basis of consolidation continued

Joint arrangements

iv. 
Under IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements, investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or joint ventures. The 
classification depends on the contractual rights and obligations of each investor, rather than the legal structure of the joint arrangement. 

Interest in the joint venture is accounted for using the equity method, after initially being recognised at cost in the consolidated statement of 
financial position. All other joint arrangements of the Group are joint operations.

Associates

v. 
Associates are all entities over which the Group has significant influence but not control or joint control. This is generally the case where the 
Group holds between 20% and 50% of the voting rights. Investment in associates is accounted for using the equity method of accounting (see 
(vi) below) after initially being recognised at cost.

Equity method 

vi. 
Under the equity method of accounting, the Group’s investments are initially recognised at cost and adjusted thereafter to recognise the 
Group’s share of the post-acquisition profits or losses of the investee in profit or loss, and the Group’s share of movements in other 
comprehensive income of the investee in other comprehensive income. Dividends received or receivable from associates and joint ventures 
are recognised as a reduction in the carrying amount of the investment. 

Where the Group’s share of loss in an equity accounting investment equals or exceeds its interest in the entity, including any other unsecured 
long-term receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the 
other party. 

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its associate and joint venture are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in 
the entities. Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of the asset transferred. 
Accounting policies of equity accounted investees are changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the 
Group. 

The carrying amount of equity accounted investments is tested for impairment in accordance with the policy described in Note 3.19.

Changes in ownership interest

vii. 
The Group treats transactions with non-controlling interests that do not result in a loss of control as transactions with equity owners of the 
Group. A change in ownership interest results in an adjustment between the carrying amounts of the controlling and non-controlling interests 
to reflect their relative interests in the subsidiary. Any difference between the amount of the adjustment to non-controlling interests and any 
consideration paid or received is recognised in a separate reserve within equity attributable to owners of the Group.

When the Group ceases to consolidate or equity account for an investment because of a loss of control, joint control or significant influence, 
any retained interest in the entity is remeasured to its fair value, with the change in carrying amount recognised in profit or loss. This fair value 
becomes the initial carrying amount for the purposes of subsequently accounting for the retained interest as an associate, joint venture or 
financial asset. In addition, any amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income in respect of that entity are accounted for as if 
the Group had directly disposed of the related assets or liabilities. This may mean that amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive 
income are reclassified to profit or loss. If the ownership interest in a joint venture or an associate is reduced but joint control or significant 
influence is retained, only a proportionate share of the amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income are reclassified to 
profit or loss where appropriate.

viii.  Accounting for loss of control 
When the Group ceases to consolidate a subsidiary because of a joint control, it does the following: 

• deconsolidates the assets (including goodwill), liabilities and non-controlling interest (including attributable other comprehensive income) 

of the former subsidiary from the consolidated financial position.

• any retained interest (including amounts owed by and to the former subsidiary) in the entity is remeasured to its fair value, with the change  

in carrying amount recognised in profit or loss. This fair value becomes the initial carrying amount for the purposes of subsequently 
accounting for the retained interest as an associate or a joint venture. 

• any amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income in respect of that entity are accounted for as if the Group had directly 

disposed of the related assets or liabilities. This may mean that amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income are 
reclassified to profit or loss or transferred directly to retained earnings if required by other IFRSs. 

• the resulting gain or loss, on loss of control, is recognised together with the profit or loss from the discontinued operation for the period 

before the loss of control. 

• the gain or loss on disposal will comprise of the gain or loss attributable to the portion disposed of and the gain or loss on remeasurement  

of the portion retained. The latter is disclosed separately in the notes to the financial statements. 

• if the ownership interest in a joint venture is reduced but joint control or significant influence is retained, only a proportionate share of the 

amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive income is reclassified to profit or loss where appropriate.

Non-controlling interests

ix. 
The Group recognises non-controlling interests in an acquired entity either at fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate 
share of the acquired entity’s net identifiable assets. This decision is made on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis. 

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x. 
Goodwill on acquisitions of subsidiaries is included in intangible assets. Goodwill is not amortised, but it is tested for impairment annually, or 
more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired and is carried at cost less accumulated impairment 
losses. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold. Goodwill is allocated  
to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing. The allocation is made to those cash-generating units or groups of 
cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the business combination in which the goodwill arose.

Group reorganisation

xi. 
A Group reorganisation involves restructuring the relationship between entities under common control. It is the transfer of assets (shares or 
businesses of a group entity), from one group entity to another. This may be between existing or newly formed entities within the Group. 
Common control means all the combining entities or businesses are ultimately controlled by the same party both before and after the 
reorganisation.

The Group accounts for reorganisation involving entities under common control using pooling of interest method. On the date of transfer, the 
assets and liabilities are transferred to the acquirer at their carrying value, no adjustments are made to reflect their fair value, and no new 
goodwill is recognised. Any difference between the consideration transferred and the acquired net assets (or liabilities) is reflected 
within equity. 

The assets and liabilities transferred are reflected prospectively in the Group’s financial statements from the date of transfer without 
restating the comparative period.

Functional and presentation currency

3.6 
Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s subsidiaries are measured using the currency of the primary economic 
environment in which the subsidiaries operate (‘the functional currency’), which is the US dollar except the UK subsidiary which is the 
Great Britain Pound. The consolidated financial statements are presented in Nigerian Naira and the US dollar.

The Group has chosen to show both presentation currencies and this is allowable by the regulator.

Transactions and balances

i. 
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions. Foreign 
exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies at year end are generally recognised in profit or loss. They are deferred in equity if attributable to net 
investment in foreign operations.

Foreign exchange gains and losses that relate to borrowings are presented in the statement of profit or loss, within finance costs. All other 
foreign exchange gains and losses are presented in the statement of profit or loss on a net basis within other income or other expenses.

Non-monetary items that are measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair 
value was determined. Translation differences on assets and liabilities carried at fair value are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss  
or other comprehensive income depending on where fair value gain or loss is reported.

Group companies

ii. 
The results and financial position of foreign operations that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are 
translated into the presentation currency as follows:

• assets and liabilities for each statement of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of the reporting date.

• income and expenses for statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income are translated at average exchange rates (unless this 

is not – a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and 
expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions), and all resulting exchange differences are recognised in other 
comprehensive income.

On disposal of a foreign operation, the component of other comprehensive income relating to that foreign operation is recognised in profit or 
loss. Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign operation are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign 
operation and translated at the closing rate.

3.7  Oil and gas accounting
i. 
Pre-licensing costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred.

Pre-licensing costs

Exploration licence cost

ii. 
Exploration licence costs are capitalised within intangible assets. Licence costs paid in connection with a right to explore in an existing 
exploration area are capitalised and amortised on a straight-line basis over the life. 

Licence costs are reviewed at each reporting date to confirm that there is no indication that the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable 
amount. This review includes confirming that exploration drilling is still under way or firmly planned, or that it has been determined, or work is 
under way to determine that the discovery is economically viable based on a range of technical and commercial considerations and sufficient 
progress is being made to establish development plans and timing. If no future activity is planned or the licence has been relinquished or has 
expired, the carrying value of the licence is written off through profit or loss. The exploration licence costs are initially recognised as cost and 
subsequently amortised on a straight-line based on the economic life. They are subsequently carried at cost less accumulated amortisation 
and impairment losses.

Acquisition of producing assets

iii. 
Upon acquisition of producing assets which do not constitute a business combination, the Group identifies and recognises the individual 
identifiable assets acquired (including those assets that meet the definition of, and recognition criteria for, intangible assets in IAS 38 
Intangible Assets) and liabilities assumed. The purchase price paid for the group of assets is allocated to the individual identifiable assets  
and liabilities on the basis of their relative fair values at the date of purchase. 

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3.7  Oil and gas accounting continued

Exploration and evaluation expenditures

iv. 
Geological and geophysical exploration costs are charged to profit or loss as incurred.

Exploration and evaluation expenditures incurred by the entity are accumulated separately for each area of interest. Such expenditures 
comprise net direct costs and an appropriate portion of related overhead expenditure, but do not include general overheads or administrative 
expenditure that is not directly related to a particular area of interest. Each area of interest is limited to a size related to a known or probable 
hydrocarbon resource capable of supporting an oil operation.

Costs directly associated with an exploration well, exploratory stratigraphic test well and delineation wells are temporarily suspended 
(capitalised) until the drilling of the well is complete and the results have been evaluated. These costs include employee remuneration, 
materials and fuel used, rig costs, delay rentals and payments made to contractors. If hydrocarbons (‘proved reserves’) are not found,  
the exploration expenditure is written off as a dry hole and charged to profit or loss. If hydrocarbons are found, the costs continue to be 
capitalised. 

Suspended exploration and evaluation expenditure in relation to each area of interest is carried forward as an asset provided that one of the 
following conditions is met:

• the costs are expected to be recouped through successful development and exploitation of the area of interest or alternatively, by its sale; 

• exploration and/or evaluation activities in the area of interest have not, at the reporting date, reached a stage which permits a reasonable 

assessment of the existence or otherwise of economically recoverable reserves; and

• active and significant operations in, or in relation to, the area of interest.

Exploration and/or evaluation expenditures which fail to meet at least one of the conditions outlined above are written off. In the event that  
an area is subsequently abandoned or exploration activities do not lead to the discovery of proved or probable reserves, or if the Directors 
consider the expenditure to be of no value, any accumulated costs carried forward relating to the specified areas of interest are written off in 
the year in which the decision is made. While an area of interest is in the development phase, amortisation of development costs is not 
charged pending the commencement of production. Exploration and evaluation costs are transferred from the exploration and/or evaluation 
phase to the development phase upon commitment to a commercial development.

Development expenditures

v. 
Development expenditure incurred by the Group is accumulated separately for each area of interest in which economically recoverable 
reserves have been identified to the satisfaction of the Directors. Such expenditure comprises net direct costs and, in the same manner as for 
exploration and evaluation expenditure, an appropriate portion of related overhead expenditure directly related to the development property. 
All expenditure incurred prior to the commencement of commercial levels of production from each development property is carried forward to 
the extent to which recoupment is expected to be derived from the sale of production from the relevant development property.

3.8  Revenue recognition (IFRS 15)
IFRS 15 uses a five-step model for recognising revenue to depict transfer of goods or services. The model distinguishes between promises to 
a customer that are satisfied at a point in time and those that are satisfied over time.

It is the Group’s policy to recognise revenue from a contract when it has been approved by both parties, rights have been clearly identified, 
payment terms have been defined, the contract has commercial substance, and collectability has been ascertained as probable. 
Collectability of a customer’s payments is ascertained based on the customer’s historical records, guarantees provided, the customer’s 
industry and advance payments made if any.

Revenue is recognised when control of goods sold has been transferred. Control of an asset refers to the ability to direct the use of and obtain 
substantially all of the remaining benefits (potential cash inflows or savings in cash outflows) associated with the asset. For crude oil, this 
occurs when the crude products are lifted by the customer (buyer) Free on Board at the Group’s loading facility. Revenue from the sale of oil is 
recognised at a point in time when performance obligation is satisfied. For gas sales, revenue is recognised when the product passes through 
the custody transfer point to the customer. Revenue from the sale of gas is recognised over time using the practical expedient of the right 
to invoice.

The surplus or deficit of the product sold during the period over the Group’s share of production is termed as an overlift or underlift. With 
regard to underlifts, if the over-lifter does not meet the definition of a customer or the settlement of the transaction is non-monetary, a 
receivable and other income is recognised. Initially, when an overlift occurs, cost of sale is debited, and a corresponding liability is accrued. 
Overlifts and underlifts are initially measured at the market price of oil at the date of lifting, consistent with the measurement of the sale and 
purchase. Subsequently, they are remeasured at the current market value. The change arising from this remeasurement is included in the 
profit or loss as other income/expenses-net.

Definition of a customer
A customer is a party that has contracted with the Group to obtain crude oil or gas products in exchange for a consideration, rather than to 
share in the risks and benefits that result from sale. The Group has entered into collaborative arrangements with its Joint arrangement 
partners to share in the production of oil. Collaborative arrangements with its Joint arrangement partners to share in the production of oil  
are accounted for differently from arrangements with customers as collaborators share in the risks and benefits of the transaction, and 
therefore, do not meet the definition of customers. Revenue arising from these arrangements are recognised separately in other income.

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Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Contract enforceability and termination clauses
It is the Group’s policy to assess that the defined criteria for establishing contracts that entail enforceable rights and obligations are met. The 
criteria provide that the contract has been approved by both parties, rights have been clearly identified, payment terms have been defined, 
the contract has commercial substance, and collectability has been ascertained as probable. Revenue is not recognised for contracts that do 
not create enforceable rights and obligations to parties in a contract. The Group also does not recognise revenue for contracts that do not 
meet the revenue recognition criteria. In such cases where consideration is received it recognises a contract liability and only recognises 
revenue when the contract is terminated.

The Group may also have the unilateral rights to terminate an unperformed contract without compensating the other party. This could occur 
where the Group has not yet transferred any promised goods or services to the customer and the Group has not yet received, and is not yet 
entitled to receive, any consideration in exchange for promised goods or services.

Identification of performance obligation
At inception, the Group assesses the goods or services promised in the contract with a customer to identify as a performance obligation, each 
promise to transfer to the customer either a distinct good or series of distinct goods. The number of identified performance obligations in a 
contract will depend on the number of promises made to the customer. The delivery of barrels of crude oil or units of gas are usually the only 
performance obligation included in an oil and gas contract with no additional contractual promises. Additional performance obligations may 
arise from future contracts with the Group and its customers.

The identification of performance obligations is a crucial part in determining the amount of consideration recognised as revenue. This is due 
to the fact that revenue is only recognised at the point where the performance obligation is fulfilled, management has therefore developed 
adequate measures to ensure that all contractual promises are appropriately considered and accounted for accordingly.

Transaction price is the amount allocated to the performance obligations identified in the contract. It represents the amount of revenue 
recognised as those performance obligations are satisfied. Complexities may arise where a contract includes variable consideration, 
significant financing component or consideration payable to a customer.

Variable consideration not within the Group’s control is estimated at the point of revenue recognition and reassessed periodically. The 
estimated amount is included in the transaction price to the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal of the amount of 
cumulative revenue recognised will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved. As  
a practical expedient, where the Group has a right to consideration from a customer in an amount that corresponds directly with the value to 
the customer of the Group’s performance completed to date, the Group may recognise revenue in the amount to which it has a right to invoice.

Significant financing component (SFC) assessment is carried out (using a discount rate that reflects the amount charged in a separate 
financing transaction with the customer and also considering the Group’s incremental borrowing rate) on contracts that have a repayment 
period of more than 12 months.

As a practical expedient, the Group does not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing component 
if it expects, at contract inception, that the period between when it transfers a promised good or service to a customer and when the 
customer pays for that good or service will be one year or less.

Instances when SFC assessment may be carried out include where the Group receives advance payment for agreed volumes of crude oil or 
receives take or pay deficiency payment on gas sales. A take or pay gas sales contract ideally provides that the customer must sometimes pay 
for gas even when not delivered to the customer. The customer, in future contract years, takes delivery of the product without further 
payment. The portion of advance payments that represents significant financing component will be recognised as interest expense.

Consideration payable to a customer is accounted for as a reduction of the transaction price unless the payment to the customer is in 
exchange for a distinct goods or services that the customer transfers to the Group.

Breakage 
The Group enters into take or pay contracts for sale of gas where the buyer may not ultimately exercise all of their rights to the gas. The take or 
pay quantity not taken is paid for by the buyer called take or pay deficiency payment. The Group assesses if there is a reasonable assurance 
that it will be entitled to a breakage amount. Where it establishes that a reasonable assurance exists, it recognises the expected breakage 
amount as revenue in proportion to the pattern of rights exercised by the customer. However, where the Group is not reasonably assured of  
a breakage amount, it would only recognise the expected breakage amount as revenue when the likelihood of the customer exercising its 
remaining rights becomes remote.

Contract modification and contract combination
Contract modifications relate to a change in the price and/or scope of an approved contract. Where there is a contract modification, the Group 
assesses if the modification will create a new contract or change the existing enforceable rights and obligations of the parties to the original 
contract. Contract modifications are treated as new contracts when the performance obligations are separately identifiable and transaction 
price reflects the standalone selling price of the crude oil or the gas to be sold. Revenue is adjusted prospectively when the crude oil or gas 
transferred is separately identifiable and the price does not reflect the standalone selling price. Conversely, if there are remaining 
performance obligations which are not separately identifiable, revenue will be recognised on a cumulative catch-up basis when crude oil or 
gas is transferred.

The Group combines contracts entered into at near the same time (less than 12 months) as one contract if they are entered into with the same 
or related party customer, the performance obligations are the same for the contracts and the price of one contract depends on the 
other contract.

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3.8  Revenue recognition (IFRS 15) continued

Portfolio expedients
As a practical expedient, the Group may apply the requirements of IFRS 15 to a portfolio of contracts (or performance obligations) with similar 
characteristics if it expects that the effect on the financial statements would not be materially different from applying IFRS to individual 
contracts within that portfolio.

Contract assets and liabilities
The Group recognises contract assets for unbilled revenue from crude oil and gas sales. The Group recognises contract liability for 
consideration received for which performance obligation has not been met.

Disaggregation of revenue from contract with customers
The Group derives revenue from two types of products, oil and gas. The Group has determined that the disaggregation of revenue based on 
the criteria of type of products meets the disaggregation of revenue disclosure requirement of IFRS 15. It depicts how the nature, amount, 
timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors. See further details in Note 7.1.1.

3.9  Property, plant and equipment
Oil and gas properties and other plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses.

The initial cost of an asset comprises its purchase price or construction cost, any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset into 
operation, the initial estimate of any decommissioning obligation and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs. The purchase price or 
construction cost is the aggregate amount paid and the fair value of any other consideration given to acquire the asset. Where parts of an item 
of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment.

Expenditure on major maintenance refits or repairs comprises the cost of replacement assets or parts of assets, inspection costs and 
overhaul costs. Where an asset or part of an asset that was separately depreciated and is now written off is replaced and it is probable that 
future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the entity, the expenditure is capitalised. Inspection costs associated with 
major maintenance programmes are capitalised and amortised over the period to the next inspection. Overhaul costs for major maintenance 
programmes are capitalised as incurred as long as these costs increase the efficiency of the unit or extend the useful life of the asset. All 
other maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

Depreciation
Production and field facilities are depreciated on a unit-of-production basis over the estimated proved developed reserves. Assets under 
construction are not depreciated. Other property, plant and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful 
lives. Depreciation commences when an asset is available for use. The depreciation rate for each class is as follows:

Plant and machinery
Motor vehicles
Office furniture and IT equipment
Buildings
Land
Intangible asset
Leasehold improvements

20%
25%-30%
10%-33.33%
4%
–
5%
Over the unexpired portion of the lease

The expected useful lives and residual values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed on an annual basis and, if necessary, changes in 
useful lives are accounted for prospectively.

Gains or losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment are determined as the difference between disposal proceeds and carrying 
amount of the disposed assets. These gains or losses are included in profit or loss.

3.10  Right-of-use assets
The Group recognises right-of-use assets at the commencement date of a lease (i.e. the date the underlying asset is available for use). 
Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any remeasurement 
of lease liabilities. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount of lease liabilities recognised, initial direct costs incurred, 
decommissioning costs (if any), and lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received. Unless 
the Group is reasonably certain to obtain ownership of the leased asset at the end of the lease term, the recognised right-of-use assets are 
depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of its estimated useful life and the lease term. Right-of-use assets are subject 
to impairment.

Short-term leases and leases of low-value 
The Group applies the short-term lease recognition exemption to its short-term leases (i.e., those leases that have a lease term of 12 months 
or less from the commencement date and do not contain a purchase option). It also applies the lease of low-value assets recognition 
exemption to leases that are considered of low-value (i.e. low-value assets). Low-value assets are assets with a lease amount of less than 
$5,000 when new. Lease payments on short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognised as expense on a straight-line basis 
over the lease term.

3.11  Lease liabilities
At the commencement date of a lease, the Group recognises lease liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments to be made 
over the lease term. The lease payments include the exercise price of a purchase option reasonably certain to be exercised by the Group and 
payments of penalties for terminating a lease, if the lease term reflects the Group exercising the option to terminate. Variable lease payments 
that do not depend on an index or a rate are recognised as expense in the period in which the event or condition that triggers the 
payment occurs.

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Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Group uses the incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date if the 
interest rate implicit in the lease is not readily determinable. The weighted average incremental borrowing rate for the Group is 7.56%. After 
the commencement date, the amount of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced for the lease payments 
made. In addition, the carrying amount of lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in the lease term, a change in the 
in-substance fixed lease payments or a change in the assessment to purchase the underlying asset. The lease term refers to the contractual 
period of a lease.

The Group has elected to exclude non-lease components in calculating lease liabilities and instead treat the related costs as an expense in 
profit or loss.

3.12  Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily 
take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets 
are substantially ready for their intended use or sale. 

Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs incurred in connection with the borrowing of funds. These costs may arise from; specific 
borrowings used for the purpose of financing the construction of a qualifying asset, and those that arise from general borrowings that would 
have been avoided if the expenditure on the qualifying asset had not been made. The general borrowing costs attributable to an asset’s 
construction is calculated by reference to the weighted average cost of general borrowings that are outstanding during the period.

Investment income earned on the temporary investment of specific borrowings pending their expenditure on the qualifying assets is 
deducted from the borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation. All other borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which 
they are incurred.

3.13  Finance income and costs
Finance income is recognised in the statement of profit or loss as it accrues using the effective interest rate (EIR), which is the rate that 
exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where 
appropriate, to the amortised cost of the financial instrument. The determination of finance income takes into account all contractual terms 
of the financial instrument as well as any fees or incremental costs that are directly attributable to the instrument and are an integral part of 
the effective interest rate (EIR), but not future credit losses.

Finance cost 
Finance costs includes borrowing costs, interest expense calculated using the effective interest rate method, finance charges in respect of 
lease liabilities, the unwinding of the effect of discounting provisions, and the amortisation of discounts and premiums on debt instruments 
that are liabilities.

Impairment of non-financial assets

3.14 
Goodwill and intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment, or 
more frequently. Other non-financial assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 
carrying amount may not be recoverable. Individual assets are grouped for impairment assessment purposes at the lowest level at which 
there are identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets. This should be at a level not higher 
than an operating segment. 

If any such indication of impairment exists or when annual impairment testing for an asset group is required, the entity makes an estimate of 
its recoverable amount. Such indicators include changes in the Group’s business plans, changes in commodity prices, evidence of physical 
damage and, for oil and gas properties, significant downward revisions of estimated recoverable volumes or increases in estimated future 
development expenditure.

The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal (FVLCD) and value in use (VIU). The recoverable amount is 
determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or 
group of assets, in which case, the asset is tested as part of a larger cash-generating unit to which it belongs. Where the carrying amount of 
an asset group exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset group is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. 

Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at the end of each 
reporting period.

In calculating VIU, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current 
market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset/CGU. In determining FVLCD, recent market transactions 
are taken into account. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used. These calculations are corroborated 
by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded companies or other available fair value indicators.

Impairment – exploration and evaluation assets
Exploration and evaluation assets are tested for impairment once commercial reserves are found before they are transferred to oil and gas 
assets, or whenever facts and circumstances indicate impairment. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the exploration 
and evaluation assets’ carrying amount exceeds their recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of the exploration and 
evaluation assets’ fair value less costs to sell and their value in use.

Impairment – proved oil and gas production properties 
Proven oil and gas properties are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount 
may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable 
amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. For the purposes of assessing 
impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows.

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3.15  Cash and bank balances
Cash and bank balances in the statement of cash flows comprise cash at banks and at hand and short-term deposits with an original 
maturity of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of change 
in value.

Inventories

3.16 
Inventories represent the value of tubulars, casings, spares and wellheads. These are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost 
is determined using the invoice value and all other directly attributable costs to bringing the inventory to the point of use determined on a first 
in first out basis. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and 
the estimated cost necessary to make the sale. 

3.17  Other asset
The Group’s interest in the oil and gas reserves of OML 55 has been classified as other asset. On initial recognition, it is measured at the fair 
value of future recoverable oil and gas reserves. 

Subsequently, the other asset is recognised at fair value through profit or loss.

3.18  Segment reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker.

The Board of Directors has appointed a steering committee which assesses the financial performance and position of the Group and makes 
strategic decisions. The steering committee, which has been identified as the chief operating decision maker, consists of the Chief Financial 
Officer, the General Manager (Finance), the General Manager (Gas) and the Financial Reporting Manager. See further details in Note 7.

3.19  Financial instruments 
IFRS 9 provides guidance on the recognition, classification and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities; derecognition of 
financial instruments; impairment of financial assets and hedge accounting. IFRS 9 also significantly amends other standards dealing with 
financial instruments such as IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures.

Classification and measurement

a. 
Financial assets
It is the Group’s policy to initially recognise financial assets at fair value plus transaction costs, except in the case of financial assets recorded 
at fair value through profit or loss which are expensed in profit or loss.

Classification and subsequent measurement are dependent on the Group’s business model for managing the asset and the cash flow 
characteristics of the asset. On this basis, the Group may classify its financial instruments at amortised cost, fair value through profit or loss 
and at fair value through other comprehensive income.

All the Group’s financial assets as at 31 December 2020 satisfy the conditions for classification at amortised cost under IFRS 9 except for 
derivatives which are classified at fair value through profit or loss.

The Group’s financial assets include trade receivables, NPDC receivables, NAPIMS receivables, other receivables, cash and bank balances 
and derivatives. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater than 12 months after the reporting date. Interest income 
from these assets is included in finance income using the effective interest rate method. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition is 
recognised directly in profit or loss and presented in finance income/cost.

Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities of the Group are classified and measured at fair value on initial recognition and subsequently at amortised cost net of 
directly attributable transaction costs, except for derivatives which are classified and subsequently recognised at fair value through profit or 
loss.

Fair value gains or losses for financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss are accounted for in profit or loss except for the 
amount of change that is attributable to changes in the Group’s own credit risk which is presented in other comprehensive income. The 
remaining amount of change in the fair value of the liability is presented in profit or loss. The Group’s financial liabilities include trade and 
other payables and interest-bearing loans and borrowings.

Impairment of financial assets

b. 
Recognition of impairment provisions under IFRS 9 is based on the expected credit loss (ECL) model. The ECL model is applicable to financial 
assets classified at amortised cost and contract assets under IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The measurement of ECL 
reflects an unbiased and probability-weighted amount that is determined by evaluating a range of possible outcomes, time value of money 
and reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort at the reporting date, about past events, current 
conditions and forecasts of future economic conditions.

The Group applies the simplified approach or the three-stage general approach to determine impairment of receivables depending on their 
respective nature. The simplified approach is applied for trade receivables and contract assets while the general approach is applied to NPDC 
receivables, NAPIMS receivables, other receivables and cash and bank balances.

The simplified approach requires expected lifetime losses to be recognised from initial recognition of the receivables. This involves 
determining the expected loss rates using a provision matrix that is based on the Group’s historical default rates observed over the expected 
life of the receivable and adjusted forward-looking estimates. This is then applied to the gross carrying amount of the receivable to arrive at 
the loss allowance for the period.

The three-stage approach assesses impairment based on changes in credit risk since initial recognition using the past due criterion and other 
qualitative indicators such as increase in political concerns or other macroeconomic factors and the risk of legal action, sanction or other 
regulatory penalties that may impair future financial performance. 

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Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Financial assets classified as stage 1 have their ECL measured as a proportion of their lifetime ECL that results from possible default events 
that can occur within one year, while assets in stage 2 or 3 have their ECL measured on a lifetime basis.

Under the three-stage approach, the ECL is determined by projecting the probability of default (PD), loss given default (LGD) and exposure at 
default (EAD) for each ageing bucket and for each individual exposure. The PD is based on default rates determined by external rating 
agencies for the counterparties. The LGD is determined based on management’s estimate of expected cash recoveries after considering the 
historical pattern of the receivable, and it assesses the portion of the outstanding receivable that is deemed to be irrecoverable at the 
reporting period. The EAD is the total amount of outstanding receivable at the reporting period. These three components are multiplied 
together and adjusted for forward-looking information, such as the gross domestic product (GDP) in Nigeria and crude oil prices, to arrive at 
an ECL which is then discounted back to the reporting date and summed. The discount rate used in the ECL calculation is the original effective 
interest rate or an approximation thereof.

Loss allowances for financial assets measured at amortised cost are deducted from the gross carrying amount of the related financial assets 
and the amount of the loss is recognised in profit or loss.

Significant increase in credit risk and default definition

c. 
The Group assesses the credit risk of its financial assets based on the information obtained during periodic review of publicly available 
information, industry trends and payment records. Based on the analysis of the information provided, the Group identifies the assets that 
require close monitoring.

Furthermore, financial assets that have been identified to be more than 30 days past due on contractual payments are assessed to have 
experienced significant increase in credit risk. These assets are grouped as part of Stage 2 financial assets where the three-stage approach 
is applied.

In line with the Group’s credit risk management practices, a financial asset is defined to be in default when contractual payments have not 
been received at least 90 days after the contractual payment period. Subsequent to default, the Group carries out active recovery strategies 
to recover all outstanding payments due on receivables. Where the Group determines that there are no realistic prospects of recovery, the 
financial asset and any related loss allowance are written off either partially or in full:

Write-off policy

d. 
The Group writes off financial assets, in whole or in part, when it has exhausted all practical recovery efforts and has concluded that there is 
no reasonable expectation of recovery. Indicators that there is no reasonable expectation of recovery include:

• ceasing enforcement activity; and

• where the Group’s recovery method is foreclosing on collateral and the value of the collateral is such that there is no reasonable expectation 

of recovering in full.

The Group may write-off financial assets that are still subject to enforcement activity. The outstanding contractual amounts of such assets 
written off during the year ended 31 December 2020 was Nil (2019: ₦14.8 million, $48.4 million).

The Group seeks to recover amounts it is legally owed in full, but which have been partially written off due to no reasonable expectation of 
full recovery.

Derecognition

e. 
Financial assets
The Group derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire or when it transfers the 
financial asset and the transfer qualifies for derecognition. Gains or losses on derecognition of financial assets are recognised as finance 
income/cost.

Financial liabilities
The Group derecognises a financial liability when it is extinguished i.e. when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged or cancelled 
or expires. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an 
existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original liability and the 
recognition of a new liability. The difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognised immediately in the statement of profit or loss.

Modification 

f. 
When the contractual cash flows of a financial instrument are renegotiated or otherwise modified and the renegotiation or modification does 
not result in the derecognition of that financial instrument, the Group recalculates the gross carrying amount of the financial instrument and 
recognises a modification gain or loss immediately within finance income/(cost)-net at the date of the modification. The gross carrying 
amount of the financial instrument is recalculated as the present value of the renegotiated or modified contractual cash flows that are 
discounted at the financial instrument’s original effective interest rate.

Offsetting of financial assets and financial liabilities

g. 
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, and the net amount is reported in the statement of financial position. Offsetting can be applied 
when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts, and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realise the asset 
and settle the liability simultaneously.

The legally enforceable right is not contingent on future events and is enforceable in the normal course of business, and in the event of 
default, insolvency or bankruptcy of the Company or the counterparty.

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Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.  Summary of significant accounting policies continued

3.19  Financial instruments continued

Derivatives

h. 
The Group uses derivative financial instruments such as forward exchange contracts to hedge its foreign exchange, risks as well as put 
options to hedge against its oil price risk. However, such contracts are not accounted for as designated hedges. Derivatives are initially 
recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered and subsequently remeasured to their fair value at the end of each 
reporting period. Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognised within operating profit in profit or loss 
for the period. An analysis of the fair value of derivatives is provided in Note 6, Financial risk management. 

The Group accounts for financial assets with embedded derivatives (hybrid instruments) in their entirety on the basis of its contractual cash 
flow features and the business model within which they are held, thereby eliminating the complexity of bifurcation for financial assets. For 
financial liabilities, hybrid instruments are bifurcated into hosts and embedded features. In these cases, the Group measures the host 
contract at amortised cost and the embedded features is measured at fair value through profit or loss. 

For the purpose of the maturity analysis, embedded derivatives included in hybrid financial instruments are not separated. The hybrid 
instrument, in its entirety, is included in the maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities.

Fair value of financial instruments

i. 
The fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market 
participants at the measurement date. When available, the Group measures the fair value of an instrument using quoted prices in an active 
market for that instrument. A market is regarded as active if quoted prices are readily available and represent actual and regularly occurring 
market transactions on an arm’s length basis.

If a market for a financial instrument is not active, the Group establishes fair value using valuation techniques. Valuation techniques include 
using recent arm’s length transactions between knowledgeable, willing parties (if available), reference to the current fair value of other 
instruments that are substantially the same, and discounted cash flow analysis. The chosen valuation technique makes maximum use of 
market inputs, relies as little as possible on estimates specific to the Group, incorporates all factors that market participants would consider 
in setting a price, and is consistent with accepted economic methodologies for pricing financial instruments.

Inputs to valuation techniques reasonably represent market expectations and measure the risk-return factors inherent in the financial 
instrument. The Group calibrates valuation techniques and tests them for validity using prices from observable current market transactions 
in the same instrument or based on other available observable market data.

The best evidence of the fair value of a financial instrument at initial recognition is the transaction price – i.e. the fair value of the 
consideration given or received. However, in some cases, the fair value of a financial instrument on initial recognition may be different to its 
transaction price. If such fair value is evidenced by comparison with other observable current market transactions in the same instrument 
(without modification or repackaging) or based on a valuation technique whose variables include only data from observable markets, then the 
difference is recognised in the income statement on initial recognition of the instrument. In other cases, the difference is not recognised in 
the income statement immediately but is recognised over the life of the instrument on an appropriate basis or when the instrument is 
redeemed, transferred or sold, or the fair value becomes observable.

3.20  Share capital
On issue of ordinary shares, any consideration received net of any directly attributable transaction costs is included in equity. Issued  
share capital has been translated at the exchange rate prevailing at the date of the transaction and is not retranslated subsequent to 
initial recognition.

3.21  Earnings per share and dividends
Basic EPS
Basic earnings per share is calculated on the Group’s profit or loss after taxation attributable to the parent entity and on the basis of weighted 
average of issued and fully paid ordinary shares at the end of the year.

Diluted EPS
Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss after taxation attributable to the parent entity by the weighted average number of 
ordinary shares outstanding during the year plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that would be issued on conversion of all 
the dilutive potential ordinary shares (after adjusting for outstanding share awards arising from the share-based payment scheme) into 
ordinary shares.

Dividends 
Dividends on ordinary shares are recognised as a liability in the period in which they are approved.

3.22  Post-employment benefits
Defined contribution scheme
The Group contributes to a defined contribution scheme for its employees in compliance with the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 2014. 
The scheme is fully funded and is managed by licensed Pension Fund Administrators. Membership of the scheme is automatic upon 
commencement of duties at the Group. The Group’s contributions to the defined contribution scheme are charged to the profit and loss 
account in the year to which they relate.

Employee benefits are all forms of consideration given by an entity in exchange for service rendered by employees or for the termination of 
employment. The Group operates a defined contribution plan and it is accounted for based on IAS 19 Employee benefits.

Defined contribution plans are post-employment benefit plans under which an entity pays fixed contributions into a separate entity (a fund) 
and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employee 
benefits relating to employee service in the current and prior periods. Under defined contribution plans the entity’s legal or constructive 
obligation is limited to the amount that it agrees to contribute to the fund. 

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Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Thus, the amount of the post-employment benefits received by the employee is determined by the amount of contributions paid by an entity 
(and perhaps also the employee) to a post-employment benefit plan or to an insurance company, together with investment returns arising 
from the contributions. In consequence, actuarial risk (that benefits will be less than expected) and investment risk (that assets invested will 
be insufficient to meet expected benefits) fall, in substance, on the employee.

Defined benefit scheme
The Group operates a defined benefit gratuity plan, which requires contributions to be made to a separately administered fund. The Group 
also provides certain additional post-employment benefits to employees. These benefits are unfunded.

The cost of providing benefits under the defined benefit plan is determined using the projected unit credit method and calculated annually by 
independent actuaries. The liability or asset recognised in the statement of financial position in respect of the defined benefit plan is the 
present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period less the fair value of plan assets (if any). The present value of 
the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using government bonds. 

Remeasurements gains and losses, arising from changes in financial and demographic assumptions and experience adjustments, are 
recognised immediately in the statement of financial position with a corresponding debit or credit to retained earnings through other 
comprehensive income in the period in which they occur. Remeasurements are not reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods.

Past service costs are recognised in profit or loss on the earlier of:

• the date of the plan amendment or curtailment; and

• the date that the Group recognises related restructuring costs.

Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit obligation and the fair value of the plan assets.

The Group recognises the following changes in the net defined benefit obligation under employee benefit expenses in general and 
administrative expenses:

• Service costs comprises current service costs, past-service costs, gains and losses on curtailments and non-routine settlements.

• Net interest cost. 

3.23  Provisions
Provisions are recognised when: 

i. 

the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; 

ii. 

it is probable that an outflow of economic resources will be required to settle the obligation as a whole; and 

iii.  the amount can be reliably estimated. 

Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses. In measuring the provision:

• risks and uncertainties are taken into account;

• the provisions are discounted (where the effects of the time value of money is considered to be material) using a pre-tax rate that is 

reflective of current market assessments of the time value of money and the risk specific to the liability;

• when discounting is used, the increase of the provision over time is recognised as interest expense;

• future events such as changes in law and technology, are taken into account where there is subjective audit evidence that they will occur; 

and

• gains from expected disposal of assets are not taken into account, even if the expected disposal is closely linked to the event giving rise to 

the provision.

Decommissioning 
Liabilities for decommissioning costs are recognised as a result of the constructive obligation of past practice in the oil and gas industry, 
when it is probable that an outflow of economic resources will be required to settle the liability and a reliable estimate can be made. The 
estimated costs, based on current requirements, technology and price levels, prevailing at the reporting date, are computed based on the 
latest assumptions as to the scope and method of abandonment. 

Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimates of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at 
the end of the reporting period. The discount rate used to determine the present value is a pre-tax rate that reflects current market 
assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is 
recognised as a finance cost. The corresponding amount is capitalised as part of the oil and gas properties and is amortised on a unit-of-
production basis as part of the depreciation, depletion and amortisation.

If the change in estimate results in an increase in the decommissioning provision and, therefore, an addition to the carrying value of the asset, 
the Group considers whether this is an indication of impairment of the asset as a whole, and if so, tests for impairment in accordance with IAS 
36. If, for mature fields, the revised oil and gas assets net of decommissioning provisions exceed the recoverable value, that portion of the 
increase is charged directly to expense.

169

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.  Summary of significant accounting policies continued

3.24  Contingencies
A contingent asset or contingent liability is a possible asset or obligation that arises from past events and whose existence will be confirmed 
by the occurrence or non-occurrence of uncertain future events. The assessment of the existence of the contingencies will involve 
management judgement regarding the outcome of future events.

3.25  Contingent consideration
A contingent consideration to be transferred by the acquirer is recognised at fair value through profit or loss at the acquisition date by the 
Group. Contingent consideration classified as an asset or liability is measured at fair value in accordance with IFRS 13 Fair value 
Measurement with the changes in fair value recognised in the statement of profit or loss.

Income taxation
Current income tax

3.26 
i. 
The income tax expense or credit for the period is the tax payable on the current period’s taxable income, based on the applicable income tax 
rate for each jurisdiction, adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary differences and to unused tax 
losses. The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting 
period in the countries where the Company and its subsidiaries and associates operate and generate taxable income. Management 
periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation. It 
establishes provisions, where appropriate, on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

Deferred tax

ii. 
Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and 
liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, deferred tax liabilities are not recognised if they arise 
from the initial recognition of goodwill. Deferred income tax is also not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in 
a transaction other than a business combination that, at the time of the transaction, affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss. 

Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the end of the reporting 
period and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred tax assets are recognised only if it is probable that future taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary differences 
and losses. 

Deferred tax liabilities and assets are not recognised for temporary differences between the carrying amount and tax bases of investments in 
foreign operations where the Company is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences and it is probable that the 
differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Current tax assets and tax liabilities are offset where the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset and intends either to settle on a net 
basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Current and deferred tax is recognised in profit or loss, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income 
or directly in equity. In this case, the tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

Uncertainty over income tax treatments

iii. 
The Group examines where there is an uncertainty regarding the treatment of an item, including taxable profit or loss, the tax bases of assets 
and liabilities, tax losses and credits and tax rates. It considers each uncertain tax treatment separately or together as a group, depending on 
which approach better predicts the resolution of the uncertainty. The factors it considers include:

• how it prepares and supports the tax treatment; and

• the approach that it expects the tax authority to take during an examination.

If the Group concludes that it is probable that the tax authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment that has been taken or is expected to be 
taken on a tax return, it determines the accounting for income taxes consistently with that tax treatment. If it concludes that it is not probable 
that the treatment will be accepted, it reflects the effect of the uncertainty in its income tax accounting in the period in which that 
determination is made (for example, by recognising an additional tax liability or applying a higher tax rate).

The Group measures the impact of the uncertainty using methods that best predict the resolution of the uncertainty. The Group uses the 
most likely method where there are two possible outcomes, and the expected value method when there is a range of possible outcomes.

The Group assumes that the tax authority with the right to examine and challenge tax treatments will examine those treatments and have full 
knowledge of all related information. As a result, it does not consider detection risk in the recognition and measurement of uncertain tax 
treatments. The Group applies consistent judgements and estimates on current and deferred taxes. Changes in tax laws or the presence of 
new tax information by the tax authority is treated as a change in estimate in line with IAS 8 Accounting policies, changes in accounting 
estimates and errors. 

Judgements and estimates made to recognise and measure the effect of uncertain tax treatments are reassessed whenever circumstances 
change or when there is new information that affects those judgements. New information might include actions by the tax authority, evidence 
that the tax authority has taken a particular position in connection with a similar item, or the expiry of the tax authority’s right to examine a 
particular tax treatment. The absence of any comment from the tax authority is unlikely to be, in isolation, a change in circumstances or new 
information that would lead to a change in estimate.

170

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.27  Business combinations
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for all business combinations, regardless of whether equity instruments or other 
assets are acquired. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary comprises the:

• fair values of the assets transferred;

• liabilities incurred to the former owners of the acquired business;

• equity interests issued by the Group;

• fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement; and

• fair value of any pre-existing equity interest in the subsidiary.

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are, with limited exceptions, 
measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. The Group recognises any non-controlling interest in the acquired entity on an 
acquisition-by-acquisition basis either at fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquired entity’s net 
identifiable assets. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred.

The excess of the:

• consideration transferred;

• amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquired entity; and

• acquisition-date fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquired entity.

over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If those amounts are less than the fair value of the net 
identifiable assets of the business acquired, the difference is recognised directly in profit or loss as a bargain purchase.

3.28  Share-based payments
Employees (including senior executives) of the Group receive remuneration in the form of share-based payments, whereby employees render 
services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions).

Equity-settled transactions
The cost of equity-settled transactions is determined by the fair value at the date when the grant is made using an appropriate 
valuation model.

That cost is recognised in employee benefits expense together with a corresponding increase in equity (share-based payment reserve), over 
the period in which the service and, where applicable, the performance conditions are fulfilled (the vesting period). The cumulative expense 
recognised for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has 
expired and the Group’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or credit in profit or loss for a 
period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as at the beginning and end of that period.

Service and non-market performance conditions are not taken into account when determining the grant date and for fair value of awards, but 
the likelihood of the conditions being met is assessed as part of the Group’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will 
ultimately vest. Market performance conditions are reflected within the grant date fair value. Any other conditions attached to an award, but 
without an associated service requirement, are considered to be non-vesting conditions. Non-vesting conditions are reflected in the fair value 
of an award and lead to an immediate expensing of an award unless there are also service and/or performance conditions.

No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest because non-market performance and/or service conditions have not been 
met. Where awards include a market or non-vesting condition, the transactions are treated as vested irrespective of whether the market or 
non-vesting condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance and/or service conditions are satisfied. When the terms of an 
equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognised is the grant date fair value of the unmodified award provided the original 
terms of the award are met. An additional expense, measured as at the date of modification, is recognised for any modification that increases 
the total fair value of the share-based payment transaction, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee. Where an award is cancelled by the 
entity or by the counterparty, any remaining element of the fair value of the award is expensed immediately through profit or loss. The dilutive 
effect of outstanding awards is reflected as additional share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.

4.  Significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions

The preparation of the Group’s consolidated historical financial information requires management to make judgements, estimates and 
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the accompanying disclosures, and the 
disclosure of contingent liabilities. Uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in outcomes that require a material 
adjustment to the carrying amount of assets or liabilities affected in future periods.

Judgements

4.1 
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies, management has made the following judgements, which have the most significant 
effect on the amounts recognised in the consolidated historical financial information:

OMLs 4, 38 and 41

i. 
OMLs 4, 38, 41 are grouped together as a cash-generating unit for the purpose of impairment testing. These three OMLs are grouped together 
because they each cannot independently generate cash flows. They currently operate as a single block sharing resources for the purpose of 
generating cash flows. Crude oil and gas sold to third parties from these OMLs are invoiced when the Group has an unconditional right to 
receive payment. 

Deferred tax asset

ii. 
Deferred income tax assets are recognised for tax losses carried forward to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through 
future taxable profits is probable. See further details in Note 15.

171

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20204.  Significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions continued

4.1 

Judgements continued

Lease liabilities

iii. 
In 2018, the Group entered into a lease agreement for its new head office building. The lease contract contains an option to purchase and right 
of first refusal upon an option of sales during the initial non-cancellable lease term of five (5) years.

In determining the lease liability/right-of-use assets, management considered all fact and circumstances that create an economic incentive 
to exercise the purchase option. Potential future cash outflow of $45 million (Seplat’s 45% share of $100 million), which represents the 
purchase price, has not been included in the lease liability because the Group is not reasonably certain that the purchase option will be 
exercised. This assessment will be reviewed if a significant event or a significant change in circumstances occurs which affects the initial 
assessment and that is within the control of the management.

Group re-organisation

iv. 
On 1 January 2020, the Group’s operations were restructured with the transfer of OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 from Seplat Plc to Seplat West 
Limited. Management determined that this was a group reorganisation involving entities under common control, as Seplat Plc controlled the 
Group before and after the reorganisation. In addition, the assets and liabilities of the Group were the same immediately before and after the 
reorganisation. See Note 40 for a summary of assets and liabilities transferred to Seplat West Limited.

Foreign currency translation reserve

v. 
The Group has used the CBN rate to translate its dollar currency to its Naira presentation currency. Management has determined that this 
rate is available for immediate delivery. If the rate used was 10% higher or lower, revenue in Naira would have increased/decreased by 
₦19 billion (2019: ₦21.4 billion). See Note 50 for the applicable translation rates.

Consolidation of Elcrest 

vi. 
On acquisition of 100% shares of Eland Oil and Gas Plc, the Group acquired indirect holdings in Elcrest Exploration and Production (Nigeria) 
Limited. Although the Group has an indirect holding of 45% in Elcrest, Elcrest has been consolidated as a subsidiary for the following basis:

• Eland Oil and Gas Plc has power over Elcrest through due representation of Eland in the board of Elcrest, and clauses contained in the Share 

Charge agreement and loan agreement which gives Eland the right to control 100% of the voting rights of shareholders.

• Eland Oil and Gas Plc is exposed to variable returns from the activities of Elcrest through dividends and interests.

• Eland Oil and Gas Plc has the power to affect the amount of returns from Elcrest through its right to direct the activities of Elcrest and its 

exposure to returns.

vii.  Revenue recognition
Performance obligations
The judgements applied in determining what constitutes a performance obligation will impact when control is likely to pass and therefore 
when revenue is recognised i.e. over time or at a point in time. The Group has determined that only one performance obligation exists in oil 
contracts which is the delivery of crude oil to specified ports. Revenue is therefore recognised at a point in time.

For gas contracts, the performance obligation is satisfied through the delivery of a series of distinct goods. Revenue is recognised over time in 
this situation as gas customers simultaneously receive and consume the benefits provided by the Group’s performance. The Group has 
elected to apply the ‘right to invoice’ practical expedient in determining revenue from its gas contracts. The right to invoice is a measure of 
progress that allows the Group to recognise revenue based on amounts invoiced to the customer. Judgement has been applied in evaluating 
that the Group’s right to consideration corresponds directly with the value transferred to the customer and is therefore eligible to apply this 
practical expedient.

Significant financing component
The Group has entered into an advance payment contract with Mercuria for future crude oil to be delivered. The Group has considered 
whether the contract contains a financing component and whether that financing component is significant to the contract, including both of 
the following:

a.  The difference, if any, between the amount of promised consideration and cash selling price and;

b.  The combined effect of both the following:

• The expected length of time between when the Group transfers the crude to Mercuria and when payment for the crude is received; and

• The prevailing interest rate in the relevant market.

The advance period is greater than 12 months. In addition, the interest expense accrued on the advance is based on a comparable market 
rate. Interest expense has therefore been included as part of finance cost.

172

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Transactions with Joint Operating arrangement (JOA) partners
The treatment of underlift and overlift transactions is judgemental and requires a consideration of all the facts and circumstances including the 
purpose of the arrangement and transaction. The transaction between the Group and its JOA partners involves sharing in the production of crude 
oil, and for which the settlement of the transaction is non-monetary. The JOA partners have been assessed to be partners not customers. 
Therefore, shortfalls or excesses below or above the Group’s share of production are recognised in other income/(expenses) – net.

Exploration and evaluation assets
The accounting for exploration and evaluation (E&E) assets require management to make certain judgements and assumptions, including 
whether exploratory wells have discovered economically recoverable quantities of reserves. Designations are sometimes revised as new 
information becomes available. If an exploratory well encounters hydrocarbon, but further appraisal activity is required in order to conclude 
whether the hydrocarbons are economically recoverable, the well costs remain capitalised as long as sufficient progress is being made in 
assessing the economic and operating viability of the well. Criteria used in making this determination include evaluation of the reservoir 
characteristics and hydrocarbon properties, expected additional development activities, commercial evaluation and regulatory matters. The 
concept of ‘sufficient progress’ is an area of judgement, and it is possible to have exploratory costs remain capitalised for several years while 
additional drilling is performed or the Group seeks government, regulatory or partner approval of development plans.

Segment reporting
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker.

The Board of Directors has appointed a steering committee which assesses the financial performance and position of the Group and makes 
strategic decisions. The steering committee, which has been identified as being the chief operating decision maker, consists of the chief 
financial officer, the general manager (Finance), the general manager (Gas) and the financial reporting manager. See further details in Note 7.

5.  Estimates and assumptions

The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk 
of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are described below. The 
Group based its assumptions and estimates on parameters available when the consolidated financial statements were prepared. Existing 
circumstances and assumptions about future developments may change due to market changes or circumstances arising that are beyond 
the control of the Group. Such changes are reflected in the assumptions when they occur.

Defined benefit plans (pension benefits)

i. 
The cost of the defined benefit retirement plan and the present value of the retirement obligation are determined using actuarial valuations. 
An actuarial valuation involves making various assumptions that may differ from actual developments in the future. These include the 
determination of the discount rate, future salary increases, mortality rates and changes in inflation rates. 

Due to the complexities involved in the valuation and its long-term nature, a defined benefit obligation is highly sensitive to changes in these 
assumptions. The parameter most subject to change is the discount rate. In determining the appropriate discount rate, management 
considers market yield on federal government bonds in currencies consistent with the currencies of the post-employment benefit obligation 
and extrapolated as needed along the yield curve to correspond with the expected term of the defined benefit obligation. 

The rates of mortality assumed for employees are the rates published in 67/70 ultimate tables, published jointly by the Institute and Faculty 
of Actuaries in the UK.

Oil and gas reserves

ii. 
Proved oil and gas reserves are used in the units of production calculation for depletion as well as the determination of the timing of well 
closure for estimating decommissioning liabilities and impairment analysis. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating oil and 
gas reserves. Assumptions that are valid at the time of estimation may change significantly when new information becomes available. 
Changes in the forecast prices of commodities, exchange rates, production costs or recovery rates may change the economic status of 
reserves and may ultimately result in the reserves being restated.

Share-based payment reserve

iii. 
Estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions requires determination of the most appropriate valuation model, which depends 
on the terms and conditions of the grant. This estimate also requires determination of the most appropriate inputs to the valuation model 
including the expected life of the share award or appreciation right, volatility and dividend yield and making assumptions about them. The 
Group measures the fair value of equity-settled transactions with employees at the grant date. The assumptions and models used for 
estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions are disclosed in Note 28.4.

The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the 
related actual results. Such estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, 
including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

Provision for decommissioning obligations

iv. 
Provisions for environmental clean-up and remediation costs associated with the Group’s drilling operations are based on current 
constructions, technology, price levels and expected plans for remediation. Actual costs and cash outflows can differ from estimates 
because of changes in public expectations, prices, discovery and analysis of site conditions and changes in clean-up technology.

173

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20205.  Estimates and assumptions continued

Property, plant and equipment

v. 
The Group assesses its property, plant and equipment, including exploration and evaluation assets, for possible impairment if there are 
events or changes in circumstances that indicate that carrying values of the assets may not be recoverable, or at least at every reporting date.

If there are low oil prices or natural gas prices during an extended period, the Group may need to recognise significant impairment charges. 
The assessment for impairment entails comparing the carrying value of the cash-generating unit with its recoverable amount, that is, higher 
of fair value less cost to dispose and value in use. Value in use is usually determined on the basis of discounted estimated future net cash 
flows. Determination as to whether and how much an asset is impaired involves management estimates on highly uncertain matters such as 
future commodity prices, the effects of inflation on operating expenses, discount rates, production profiles and the outlook for regional 
market supply-and-demand conditions for crude oil and natural gas.

During the year, the Group carried out an impairment assessment on OML 4, 38 and 41, OML 56, OML 53, OML 40 and OML 17. The Group used 
the higher of the fair value less cost to dispose and the value in use in determining the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit. In 
determining the value, the Group used a forecast of the annual net cash flows over the life of proved plus probable reserves, production rates, 
oil and gas prices, future costs (excluding (a) future restructurings to which the entity is not yet committed; or (b) improving or enhancing the 
asset’s performance) and other relevant assumptions based on the 2020-year end Competent Persons Report (CPR). The pre-tax future cash 
flows were adjusted for risks specific to the forecast and discounted using a pre-tax discount rate of 15% and post-tax discount rate of 10% 
for OML 40 and OML 17, which reflects both current market assessment of the time value of money and risks specific to the asset. The 
impairment test did not result in any impairment loss for OML 4,38 and 41, OML 56 and OML 53. However, there were impairment losses 
recognised on OML 40 and OML 17.

Management has considered whether a reasonable possible change in one of the main assumptions will cause an impairment and believes 
otherwise (see Note 17.1). 

Useful life of other property, plant and equipment

vi. 
The Group recognises depreciation on other property, plant and equipment on a straight-line basis in order to write-off the cost of the asset 
over its expected useful life. The economic life of an asset is determined based on existing wear and tear, economic and technical ageing, legal 
and other limits on the use of the asset, and obsolescence. If some of these factors were to deteriorate materially, impairing the ability of the 
asset to generate future cash flow, the Group may accelerate depreciation charges to reflect the remaining useful life of the asset or record an 
impairment loss.

Income taxes 

vii. 
The Group is subject to income taxes by the Nigerian tax authority, which does not require significant judgement in terms of provision for 
income taxes, but a certain level of judgement is required for recognition of deferred tax assets. Management is required to assess the ability 
of the Group to generate future taxable economic earnings that will be used to recover all deferred tax assets. Assumptions about the 
generation of future taxable profits depend on management’s estimates of future cash flows. The estimates are based on the future cash 
flow from operations taking into consideration the oil and gas prices, volumes produced, operational and capital expenditure.

Impairment of financial assets

viii. 
The loss allowances for financial assets are based on assumptions about risk of default, expected loss rates and maximum contractual 
period. The Group uses judgement in making these assumptions and selecting the inputs to the impairment calculation, based on the Group’s 
past history, existing market conditions as well as forward-looking estimates at the end of each reporting period. Details of the key 
assumptions and inputs used are disclosed in Note 6.1.3.

Intangible asset

ix. 
The contract-based intangible assets were acquired as part of a business combination. They are recognised at their fair value at the date  
of acquisition and are subsequently amortised on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives which is also the economic life of 
the asset.

The fair value of contract-based intangible assets is estimated using the multi period excess earnings method. This requires a forecast of 
revenue and all cost projections throughout the useful life of the intangible assets. A contributory asset charge that reflects the return on 
assets is also determined and applied to the revenue but subtracted from the operating cash flows to derive the pre-tax cash flow. The 
post-tax cash flows are then obtained by deducting out the tax using the effective tax rate.

Discount rates represent the current market assessment of the risks specific to each CGU, taking into consideration the time value of money. 
The discount rate calculation is based on the specific circumstances of the Group and its operating segments and is derived from its weighted 
average cost of capital (WACC). The WACC takes into account both debt and equity. The cost of equity is derived from the expected return on 
investment by the Group’s investors. The cost of debt is based on the interest-bearing borrowings the Group is obliged to service. See Note 20 
for more details.

174

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management

Financial risk factors

6.1 
The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks such as market risk (including foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and 
commodity price risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Group’s risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of financial 
markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Group’s financial performance. 

Risk management is carried out by the treasury department under policies approved by the Board of Directors. The Board provides written 
principles for overall risk management, as well as written policies covering specific areas, such as foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, 
credit risk and investment of excess liquidity.

Risk

Exposure arising from

Measurement

Management

Market risk – foreign exchange

Market risk – interest rate

Market risk – commodity prices

Credit risk

Liquidity risk

Future commercial transactions
Recognised financial assets and 
liabilities not denominated in 
US Dollars
Interest-bearing loans and 
borrowings at variable rate
Future sales transactions

Cash and bank balances, trade 
receivables and derivative 
financial instruments
Borrowings and other liabilities

Cash flow forecasting
Sensitivity analysis

Sensitivity analysis

Match and settle foreign 
denominated cash inflows 
with foreign denominated cash 
outflows
Review refinancing opportunities

Sensitivity analysis

Oil price hedges

Aging analysis
Credit ratings

Diversification of bank deposits

Rolling cash flow forecasts

Availability of committed credit 
lines and borrowing facilities

6.1.1  Market risk
Market risk is the risk of loss that may arise from changes in market factors such as foreign exchange rates, interest rates and 
commodity prices.

Commodity price risk

i. 
The Group is exposed to the risk of fluctuations on crude oil prices. The uncertainty around the rate at which oil prices increase or decline led 
to the Group’s decision to enter into an option contract to insure the Group’s revenue against adverse oil price movements.

Crude hedge
During the last quarter of 2020, the Group entered an economic crude oil hedge contracts with an average strike price of ₦12,903 ($34/bbl.) for 
5 million barrels at an average premium price of ₦580.64 ($1.53/bbl.) was agreed at the contract dates. 

These contracts, which will commence in 1 January 2021, are expected to reduce the volatility attributable to price fluctuations of oil. The 
Group has pre-paid a premium of ₦672 million, 2019: ₦838 million ($1.77 million; 2019: $2.73 million) for 1 million barrels while the premium for 
4 million barrels will be settled on a deferred basis. An unrealised fair value loss of ₦600 million, $1.67 million and a gain of ₦337 million, $1.1 
million was recognised for these hedges in 2020 and 2019 respectively. The termination date is 31 March and 30 September 2021 respectively. 
Hedging the price volatility of forecast oil sales is in accordance with the risk management strategy of the Group.

The maturity of the commodity options the Group holds is shown in the table below:

Less than 6 
months

6 to 9 
months

10 to 12 
months

Above 12 
months

Total

Fair value
₦ million

Fair value
$’000

As at 31 December 2020
Crude oil hedges Volume 
(bbl.)

As at 31 December 2019
Crude oil hedges Volume 
(bbl.)
Currency forwards  
(Notional amount – $’000) 

2,000,000

3,000,000

–

–

5,000,000

(626)
(626)

(1,648)
(1,648)

Less than 6
 months

6 to 9  
months

10 to 12  
months

Above 12
 months

Total

Fair value
₦ million

Fair value
$’000

1,500,000

1,500,000

–

–

3,000,000

 500 

 1,500 

 2,000 

 2,000 

6,000

308 

149
 457 

1,002 

484
 1,486 

175

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

Financial risk factors continued

6.1 
6.1.1  Market risk continued
The following table summarises the impact of the commodity options on the Group’s profit before tax due to a 10% change in market inputs, 
with all other variables held constant:

Increase/decrease in Commodity Price

+10%
-10%

Increase/decrease in Commodity Price

+10%
-10%

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020 
₦ million
63
(63) 

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
₦ million
– 
– 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
31
(31)

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
–
–

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

165
(165)

–
–

100
(100)

–
–

The Group may be exposed to business risks from fluctuations in the future prices of crude oil and gas. The following table summarises the 
impact on the Group’s profit before tax of a 10% change in crude oil prices, with all other variables held constant:

Increase/decrease in market inputs

+10%
-10%

Increase/decrease in market inputs

+10%
-10%

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020 
₦ million
 15,042 
 (15,042)

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
₦ million
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
 15,195 
 (15,195)

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 41,794 
 (41,794)

 – 
 – 

 49,510 
 (49,510)

 – 
 – 

The following table summarises the impact on the Group’s profit before tax of a 10% change in gas prices, with all other variables 
held constant:

Increase/decrease in Commodity Price 

+10%
-10%

Increase/decrease in Commodity Price 

+10%
-10%

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020 
₦ million
 4,050 
 (4,050)

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
₦ million
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
₦ million
 4,167 
 (4,167)

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
₦ million 
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 11,253 
 (11,253)

 – 
 – 

 13,576 
 (13,576)

 – 
 – 

Cash flow and fair value interest rate risk

ii. 
The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk relates primarily to interest-bearing loans and borrowings. The Group has both variable and fixed 
interest rate borrowings. Borrowings issued at variable rates expose the Group to cash flow interest rate risk which is partially offset by cash 
and short-term fixed deposit held at variable rates. Fixed rate borrowings only give rise to interest rate risk if measured at fair value. The 
Group’s borrowings are not measured at fair value and are denominated in US dollars. The Group is exposed to cash flow interest rate risk  
on short-term deposits to the extent that the significant increases and reductions in market interest rates would result in a decrease in the 
interest earned by the Group.

176

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The contractual re-pricing date of the interest-bearing loans and borrowings is between 3-6 months. The exposure of the Group’s variable 
interest-bearing loans and borrowings at the end of the reporting period is shown below. 

Corporate loan 

2020
₦ million
131,107

2019
₦ million
135,112

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

345,019

440,130

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity of the Group’s profit before tax to changes in LIBOR rate, with all other variables 
held constant.

Increase/decrease in interest rate

+1%
-1%

Increase/decrease in interest rate

+1%
-1%

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020 
₦ million
 131 
 (131)

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
₦ million
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
₦ million
 (41)
42

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2020 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 345 
 (345)

 – 
 – 

(135)
136 

 – 
 – 

6.1.2  Foreign exchange risk
The Group has transactional currency exposures that arise from sales or purchases in currencies other than the respective functional 
currency. The Group is exposed to exchange rate risk to the extent that balances and transactions are denominated in a currency other than 
the US dollar.

The Group holds most of its cash and bank balances in US dollar. However, the Group maintains deposits in Naira in order to fund ongoing 
general and administrative activities and other expenditure incurred in this currency. Other monetary assets and liabilities which give rise to 
foreign exchange risk include trade and other receivables, trade and other payables. The following table demonstrates the carrying value of 
monetary assets and liabilities exposed to foreign exchange risks for Naira exposures at the reporting date:

Financial assets 
Cash and bank balances
Trade and other receivables
Contract assets
Inventory

Financial liabilities
Trade and other payables
Net exposure to foreign exchange risk

2020
₦ million

85,223
443
 2,343 
 – 
88,009

2019
₦ million

31,945 
 15,201 
 6,527 
248
53,921

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

224,270
1,167
 6,167 
 – 
231,604

 103,892 
 49,515 
 21,259 
807
175,473

(126,116)
49,357

 (90,663)
(2,654)

 (41,847)
12,074

 (238,587)
(6,983)

The following table demonstrates the carrying value of monetary assets and liabilities exposed to foreign exchange risks for pound exposures 
at the reporting date:

Financial assets 
Cash and bank balances
Trade and other receivables

Financial liabilities
Trade and other payables
Net exposure to foreign exchange risk

2020
₦ million

396
29,799
30,195

 – 
30,195

2019
₦ million

 611 
1,624
2,235 

 (4,948)
 (2,713)

2020
$’000

1,041
78,419
79,460

 – 
79,460

2019
$’000

 2,153 
5,290
7,443 

 (16,117)
 (8,674)

177

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.1 

Financial risk factors continued

Sensitivity to foreign exchange risk is based on the Group’s net exposure to foreign exchange risk due to Naira and pound denominated 
balances. If the Naira strengthens or weakens by the following thresholds, the impact is as shown in the table below:

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020
₦ million
 (20,983)
23,192

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
₦ million 
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019
₦ million
 (722)
 798 

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 (55,218)
61,030

 – 
 – 

 (2,350)
 2,598 

 – 
 – 

If the pound strengthens or weakens by the following thresholds, the impact is as shown in the table below:

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020 
₦ million
 (1,438)
1,589

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
₦ million 
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
₦ million
 127 
 (140)

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 (3,784)
4,182

 – 
 – 

 413 
 (457)

–
–

6.1.3  Credit risk
Credit risk refers to the risk of a counterparty defaulting on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Group. Credit risk arises 
from cash and bank balances, derivative financial assets as well as credit exposures to customers (i.e. Mercuria, Shell western, Pillar, Azura, 
Geregu Power, Sapele Power and Nigerian Gas Marketing Company (NGMC) receivables), and other parties (i.e. NAPIMS receivables, NPDC 
receivables and other receivables).

 Risk management

a. 
The Group is exposed to credit risk from its sale of crude oil to Mercuria, Vitol, Eni Trading and Shell western. There is a 30-day payment term 
after Bill of Lading date in the off-take agreement with Mercuria (OMLs 4, 38 & 41) which runs for five years until 31 July 2021 and on Vitol 
off-take agreement (OML53 – Ohaji South Field) which expires in May 2021. While payment term is 10 days in the Eni off-take agreement 
(OML53 – Jisike Field) which expires in December 2020. The Group is exposed to further credit risk from outstanding cash calls from Nigerian 
Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) and National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS).

In addition, the Group is exposed to credit risk in relation to the sale of gas to its customers.

The credit risk on cash and cash balances is managed through the diversification of banks in which the balances are held. The risk is limited 
because the majority of deposits are with banks that have an acceptable credit rating assigned by an international credit agency. The Group’s 
maximum exposure to credit risk due to default of the counterparty is equal to the carrying value of its financial assets. 

Impairment of financial assets

b. 
The Group has six types of financial assets that are subject to IFRS 9’s expected credit loss model. Contract assets are also subject to the 
expected credit loss model, even though they are not financial assets, as they have substantially the same credit risk characteristics as trade 
receivables. The impairment of receivables is disclosed in the table below.

• Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables

• National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) receivables

• Trade receivables

• Contract assets

• Other receivables 

• Cash and bank balances

178

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Reconciliation of impairment on financial assets

As at 1 January 2020
Increase in provision for Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) 
receivables 
Increase in provision for National Petroleum Investment Management 
Services (NAPIMS) receivables 
Increase in provision for trade receivables 
Increase in provision for cash and bank balances: short-term fixed deposits 
Increase in provision for other receivables 
Exchange difference
Impairment charge to the profit or loss
As at 31 December 2020

As at 1 January 2019 (A)
Increase in provision for Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) 
receivables 
Increase in provision for National Petroleum Investment Management 
Services (NAPIMS) receivables 
Increase in provision for trade receivables 
Decrease in provision for cash and bank balances: short-term fixed deposits 
Increase in provision for other receivables 
Impairment charge to the profit or loss (B)
Total impairment before acquisition (A+B)
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible 
As at 31 December 2019

Notes

24.2

24.3
24.1
27
24.4

Notes

24.2

24.3
24.1
27
24.4

₦’million
 6,911 

$’000

 22,524 

 171 

 476 

 456 
542
 60 
 9,548 
1
 10,778 
 17,689 

₦’million
 6,871 

 1,268 
 1,507 
 167 
 26,529 
–
 29,947 
 52,471 

$’000

22,382

 12,836 

41,813

 23 
 525 
(13) 
 1,540 
 14,911 
 21,782 
(14,871) 
 6,911 

77
1,710
(39)
5,020
48,581
70,963
(48,439)
 22,524 

The parameters used to determine impairment for NPDC receivables, NAPIMS receivables, other receivables and short-term fixed deposits 
are shown below. For all receivables presented in the table, the respective 12-month Probability of Default (PD) equates the lifetime PD for 
stage 2 as the maximum contractual period over which the Group is exposed to credit risk arising from the receivables is less than 12 months.

Other receivables

Short-term fixed deposits

The PD for stage 3 is 
100%.

Nigerian Petroleum 
Development Company 
(NPDC) receivables

National Petroleum 
Investment Management 
Services (NAPIMS) 
receivables

The PD for base case, 
downturn and upturn is 
9.45%, 9.85% and 9.23% 
respectively for stage 1 
and stage 2. The PD for 
stage 3 is 100%.

The PD for base case, 
downturn and upturn is 
9.45%, 9.85% and 9.23% 
respectively for stage 1 
and stage 2. The PD for 
stage 3 is 100%.

Probability of Default (PD)

Loss Given Default (LGD)

The 12-month LGD 
and lifetime LGD were 
determined using Moody’s 
recovery rate for senior 
unsecured corporate 
bonds for emerging 
economies.

The 12-month LGD 
and lifetime LGD were 
determined to be 100% as 
no collateral was used.

The 12-month LGD 
and lifetime LGD were 
determined using 
Management’s estimate of 
expected cash recoveries.

Exposure at default (EAD)

The EAD is the maximum 
exposure of the receivable 
to credit risk.

The EAD is the maximum 
exposure of the receivable 
to credit risk.

The EAD is the maximum 
exposure of the receivable 
to credit risk.

The PD for base case, 
downturn and upturn 
is 11.77%, 12.75% and 
10.88% respectively for 
stage 1 and stage 2. The 
PD for stage 3 is 100%.

The 12-month LGD 
and lifetime LGD were 
determined using the 
average recovery rate for 
Moody’s senior unsecured 
corporate bonds for 
emerging economies.

The EAD is the maximum 
exposure of the short-
term fixed deposits to 
credit risk.

Macroeconomic indicators The historical inflation, 
unemployment growth 
rate in Nigeria and crude 
oil price were used.

The historical gross 
domestic product (GDP) 
growth rate in Nigeria and 
crude oil price were used.

The historical gross 
domestic product (GDP) 
growth rate in Nigeria and 
crude oil price were used.

The historical gross 
domestic product (GDP) 
growth rate in Nigeria and 
crude oil price were used.

Probability weightings

80%, 11% and 9% of 
historical GDP growth 
rate observations fall 
within acceptable bounds, 
periods of boom and 
periods of downturn 
respectively.

80%, 11% and 9% of 
historical GDP growth 
rate observations fall 
within acceptable bounds, 
periods of boom and 
periods of downturn 
respectively.

89%, 2% and 9% of 
historical GDP growth 
rate observations fall 
within acceptable bounds, 
periods of boom and 
periods of downturn 
respectively.

78%, 12% and 10% of 
historical GDP growth 
rate observations fall 
within acceptable bounds, 
periods of boom and 
periods of downturn 
respectively.

179

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

Financial risk factors continued

6.1 
6.1.3  Credit risk continued
The Group considers both quantitative and qualitative indicators in classifying its receivables into the relevant stages for impairment 
calculation as shown below:

• Stage 1: This stage includes financial assets that are less than 30 days past due (Performing).

• Stage 2: This stage includes financial assets that have been assessed to have experienced a significant increase in credit risk using the days 

past due criteria (i.e. the outstanding receivables amounts are more than 30 days past due but less than 90 days past due) and other 
qualitative indicators such as the increase in political risk concerns or other macroeconomic factors and the risk of legal action, sanction or 
other regulatory penalties that may impair future financial performance.

• Stage 3: This stage includes financial assets that have been assessed as being in default (i.e. receivables that are more than 90 days past 

due) or that have a clear indication that the imposition of financial or legal penalties and/or sanctions will make the full recovery of 
indebtedness highly improbable.

Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables

i. 
NPDC receivables represent the outstanding cash calls due to Seplat from its Joint Arrangement partner, Nigerian Petroleum Development 
Company. The Group applies the IFRS 9 general model for measuring expected credit losses (ECL). This requires a three-stage approach in 
recognising the expected loss allowance for NPDC receivables.

The ECL recognised for the period is a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses discounted at the effective interest rate of the financial 
asset. Credit losses are measured as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the cash flows due to the Group in 
accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the Group expects to receive).

The ECL was calculated based on actual credit loss experience from 2014, which is the date the Group initially became a party to the contract. 
The following analysis provides further detail about the calculation of ECLs related to these assets. The Group considers the model and the 
assumptions used in calculating these ECLs as key sources of estimation uncertainty.

There was no write-off during the year (2019: ₦14.9 billion ($48.4 million)) (see details in Note 24.2).

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
41,300
 (619)
40,681

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million

 – 

 – 

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
68,712
 (448)
68,264

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

114,439
 (7,386)
107,053

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

223,817
(1,460)
222,357

–
–
–

–
–
–

Total
₦’million
41,300
 (619)
40,681

Total
₦’million
68,712
 (448)
68,264

Total
$’000

114,439
 (7,386)
107,053

Total
$’000

223,817
(1,460)
222,357

National Petroleum Investment Management services (NAPIMS) receivables

ii. 
NAPIMS receivables represent the outstanding cash calls due to Seplat from its Joint Operating Arrangement (JOA) partner, National 
Petroleum Investment Management Services. The Group applies the general model for measuring expected credit losses (ECL) which uses a 
three-stage approach in recognising the expected loss allowance for NAPIMS receivables.

The ECL was calculated based on actual credit loss experience from 2016, which is the date the Group initially became a party to the contract. 
The following analysis provides further detail about the calculation of ECLs related to these assets. The Group considers the model and the 
assumptions used in calculating these ECLs as key sources of estimation uncertainty. The tables below show the expected credit losses for 
the years ended 31 December 2020 and 31 December 2019.

180

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202031 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
 11,832 
 (479)
 11,353 

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
 – 
 – 
 – 

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
 – 
 – 
 – 

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

 31,221 
 (1,345)
 29,876 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
377
(23)
354

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

1,229
(77)
1,152 

–
–
–

–
–
–

Total
₦’million
 11,832 
 (479)
 11,353 

Total
$’000

 31,221 
 (1,345)
 29,876 

Total
₦’million
377
(23)
354

Total
$’000

1,229
(77)
1,152 

Trade receivables (Gerugu Power, Sapele Power and Nigerian Gas Marketing Company)

iii. 
The Group applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses which uses a lifetime expected loss allowance for all 
trade receivables and contract assets.

The impairment of trade receivables (Gerugu Power, Sapele Power and NGMC) was estimated by applying the provision matrix. The expected 
loss rate was calculated as the percentage of the receivable that is deemed uncollectible during a particular period. The expected loss rates 
as at 31 December 2020 and 31 December 2019 are as follows:

31 December 2020

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

31 December 2020

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

Current
₦’million
1,844
0.14%
(2)
1,842

Current
₦’million
 2,515 
0.16%
 (4)
 2,511 

Current
$’000

4,859
0.14%
(6)
4,859

1-30 days
₦’million
–
0.14%
–
–

1-30 days
₦’million
 – 
0.16%
 – 
 – 

31-60 days
₦’million
1,005
0.14%
(1)
1,004

31-60 days
₦’million
 1,790 
0.17%
 (3)
 1,787 

61-90 days
₦’million
1,377
0.15%
(2)
1,375

61-90 days
₦’million
 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

91- 120 days
₦’million
1,556
4.43%
(66)
1,490

91- 120 days
₦’million
 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

1-30 days
$’000

31-60 days
$’000

61-90 days
$’000

91-120 days
$’000

–
0.14%
–
–

2,649
0.14%
(4)
2,645

3,629
0.15%
(5)
3,624

4,099
4.43%
(173)
3,926

Above  
120 days
₦’million
6,900
6.27%
(452)
6,448

Above  
120 days
₦’million
 12,176 
3.0%
 (333)
 11,843 

Above  
120 days
$’000

18,137
6.27%
(1,191)
16,946

Total
₦’million
12,682

(523)
12,159

Total
₦’million
 16,481 

 (340)
 16,141 

Total
$’000

33,373

(1,379)
31,994

181

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

Financial risk factors continued

6.1 
6.1.3  Credit risk continued

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

Current
$’000

 8,192 
0.16%
 (11)
 8,181 

1-30 days
$’000

31-60 days
$’000

61-90 days
$’000

91-120 days
$’000

 – 
0.16%
 – 
 – 

 5,831 
0.17%
 (8)
 5,823 

 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

Above  
120 days
$’000

 39,661 
3.0%
 (1,090)
 38,571 

Total
$’000

 53,684 

 (1,109) 
 52,575 

Trade receivables (Mercuria)

iv. 
The impairment of trade receivables (Mercuria) was estimated by applying the provision matrix. The expected loss rate was calculated as the 
percentage of the receivable that is deemed uncollectible during a particular period. The expected loss rates as at 31 December 2020 was nil.

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

Current
₦’million
15,863
0.4%
(68)
15,795

Current
$’000

51,669
0.4%
(219)
51,450

1-30 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

31-60 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

61-90 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

91-120 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

1-30 days
$’000

31-60 days
$’000

61-90 days
$’000

91-120 days
$’000

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

Above  
120 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

Above  
120 days
$’000

–
–
–
–

Total
₦’million
 15,863
0.4%
(68)
15,795

Total
$’000

51,669
–
(219)
51,450

Trade receivables (Pillar)

v. 
The impairment of trade receivables (Pillar) was estimated by applying the provision matrix. The expected loss rate was calculated as the 
percentage of the receivable that is deemed uncollectible during a particular period. The expected loss rates as at 31 December 2020 and 31 
December 2019 are as follows: 

31 December 2020

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

Current
₦’million
89
1.22%
(1)
88

Current
₦’million
915
1.2%
(11)
904

1-30 days
₦’million
–
1.22%
–
–

1-30 days
₦’million
–
1.2%
–
–

31-60 days
₦’million
–
2.16%
–
–

31-60 days
₦’million
555
15%
(83)
472

61-90 days
₦’million
–
15.03%
–
–

61-90 days
₦’million
–
15%
–
–

91-120 days
₦’million
–
52.65%
–
–

91-120 days
₦’million
–
15%
–
–

Above  
120 days
₦’million
346
100%
(346)
–

Above  
120 days
₦’million
274
54%
(149)
125

Total
₦’million
435

(347)
88

Total
₦’million
1,744

(243)
1,501

182

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202031 December 2020

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24.1)
Total

Current
$’000

234
1.22%
(2)
232

Current
$’000

 2,980 
1.2%
 (35)
 2,944 

1-30 days
$’000

31-60 days
$’000

61-90 days
$’000

91-120 days
$’000

–
1.22%
–
–

–
2.16%
–
–

–
15.03%
–
–

–
52.65%
–
–

1-30 days
$’000

31-60 days
$’000

61-90 days
$’000

91-120 days
$’000

 – 
1.2%
 – 
 – 

1,808
15%
 (272)
 1,536 

 – 
15%
 – 
 – 

 – 
15%
 – 
 – 

Above  
120 days
$’000

913
100%
(913)
–

Above  
120 days
$’000

 894
54%
 (483)
 411 

Total
$’000

1,147

(915)
232

Total
$’000

5,682

 (790) 
 4,891 

Contract assets

vi. 
The expected credit losses on contract assets have been assessed to be immaterial and the loss rates insignificant.

vii.  Other receivables
Other receivables are amounts outside the usual operating activities of the Group. Included in other receivables is a receivable amount on an 
investment that is no longer being pursued. The Group applied the general approach in estimating the expected credit loss. 

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
 – 
 – 
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
 – 
–
–

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
 – 
 – 
–

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
29,633
(2,685)
26,948

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
16,348
 (15,303)
1,045

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
3,070 
(3,070)
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

48,070
 (45,319)
2,751

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

 – 
 – 
 – 

96,571 
 (8,790)
87,781 

10,000
(10,000)
 – 

Total
₦’million
16,348
 (15,303)
1,045

Total
₦’million
32,703
(5,755)
26,948

Total
$’000

48,070
 (45,319)
2,751

Total
$’000

106,571
 (18,790)
87,781

183

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

Financial risk factors continued

6.1 
6.1.3  Credit risk continued
viii.  Cash and cash equivalent
Short-term fixed deposits
The Group applies the IFRS 9 general model for measuring expected credit losses (ECL) which uses a three-stage approach in recognising the 
expected loss allowance for cash and bank balances. The ECL was calculated as the probability weighted estimate of the credit losses 
expected to occur over the contractual period of the facility after considering macroeconomic indicators.

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
 8,061 
 (93)
 7,968 

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
29,741
(23)
29,718

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

21,212
 (246)
20,966

–
–
–

–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

96,878
(79)
96,799

–
–
–

–
–
–

Total
₦’million
 8,061 
 (93)
 7,968 

Total
₦’million
29,741
(23)
29,718

Total
$’000

21,212
 (246)
20,966

Total
$’000

96,878
(79)
96,799

Other cash and bank balances 
The Group assessed the other cash and bank balances to determine their expected credit losses. Based on this assessment, they identified 
the expected credit loss to be nil as at 31 December 2020 (2019: nil). The assets are assessed to be in stage 1.

Credit quality of cash and bank balances 
The credit quality of the Group’s cash and bank balances are assessed on the basis of external credit ratings (Fitch national long-term ratings) 
as shown below cash and bank balances are all in Stage 1 based on the ECL assessment:

Non-rated
BBB-
B
B+
A
A+
AA-
AAA

Allowance for impairment recognised during the year (Note 27)
Net cash and cash bank balances

2020
₦ million
4,841
672
–
–
–
80,832
9,004
3,059
98,408
 (93)
98,315

2019
₦ million
 6 
–
 25,987 
 1,713 
 4,182 
 65,684 
 750 
 3,941 
 102,263 
 (23)
 102,240 

2020
$‘000

12,740
1,764
–
–
–
212,717
23,694
8,049
258,964
 (246)
258,718

2019
$‘000

 19 
–
 84,649 
 5,580 
 13,623 
 213,956 
 2,444 
 12,836 
 333,107 
 (79)
 333,028 

184

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Maximum exposure to credit risk – financial instruments subject to impairment

c. 
The Group estimated the expected credit loss on NPDC receivables, NAPIMS receivables and short-term fixed deposits by applying the 
general model. The gross carrying amount of financial assets represents the Group’s maximum exposure to credit risks on these assets. 

All financial assets impaired using the General model (NPDC, NAPIMS and short-term fixed deposits) are graded under the standard 
monitoring credit grade (rated B- under Standard and Poor’s unmodified ratings) and are classified under Stage 1, except for the other 
receivables which are graded under the investment grade (rated AA under Standard and Poor’s unmodified ratings) and classified in Stage 2 
and Stage 3.

Roll forward movement in loss allowance

d. 
The loss allowance recognised in the period is impacted by a variety of factors, as described below:

• Transfers between Stage 1 and Stage 2 or Stage 3 due to financial instruments experiencing significant increases (or decreases) of credit 

risk or becoming credit impaired in the period, and the consequent ‘step up’ (or ‘step down’) between 12-month and lifetime ECL;

• Additional allowances for new financial instruments recognised during the period, as well as releases for financial instruments 

derecognised in the period;

• Impact on the measurement of ECL due to changes in PDs, EADs and LGDs in the period, arising from regular refreshing of inputs to models;

• Discount unwind within ECL due to passage of time, as ECL is measured on a present value basis;

• Foreign exchange retranslation for assets dominated in foreign currencies and other movements; and

• Financial assets derecognised during the period and write-off of receivables and allowances related to assets.

The following tables explain the changes in the loss allowance between the beginning and end of the annual period due to these factors:

Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
New financial assets originated or purchased
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦ million
448

 171 
 171 
619

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
₦ million
–

–

 – 

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
₦ million
–

Purchased 
credit-impaired
₦ million
–

–

 – 

–

–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
$’000

Purchased 
credit-impaired
$’000

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
New financial assets originated or purchased
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

1,460

 476 
 476 
1,936

National Petroleum Investment Management services (NAPIMS) receivables

–

–
–
–

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
₦ million
–

–
–
 – 

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
₦ million
–

Purchased 
credit-impaired
₦ million
–

–
–
 – 

–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦ million
23

 456 
 456 
 479 

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
$’000

Purchased 
credit-impaired
$’000

77

 1,268 
 1,268 
 1,345 

–

–
–
 – 

–

–
–
 – 

–

–
–
 – 

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
New financial assets originated or purchased
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
New financial assets originated or purchased
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

Total
₦ million
448

 171 
 171 
619

Total
$’000

1,460

 476 
 476 
1,936

Total
₦ million
23

 456 
 456 
 479 

Total
$’000

77

 1,268 
 1,268 
 1,345 

185

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

Financial risk factors continued

6.1 
6.1.3  Credit risk continued

Other receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs
Transfer to stage 3
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
Changes in PDs/LGDs/EADs
Transfer to stage 3
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

Short-term fixed deposit

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
New financial assets originated or purchased
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Other movements with no profit or loss impact
Exchange difference
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

Loss allowance as at 1 January 2020
Movements with profit or loss impact
New financial assets originated or purchased
Total net profit or loss charge during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December 2020

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦ million
–

–
–
 – 
 – 

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

–

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

Stage 1
12-month  
ECL
₦ million
23

 60 
 60 

10
93

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
₦ million
 1,227 

–
 (1,227) 
 (1,227)
 – 

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
$’000

 3,980 

 – 
 (3,980)
(3,980)
–

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
₦ million
–

–
–

–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
₦ million
 4,528 

9,548
1,227
10,775
 15,303

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
$’000

 14,810 

 26,529 
 3,980
 30,509 
 45,319 

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
₦ million
–

–
–

–
–

Purchased 
credit-impaired
₦ million
–

–
–
–
–

Purchased 
credit-impaired
$’000

–

–
–

 – 

Purchased 
credit-impaired
₦ million
–

–
–

–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime 
ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime 
ECL 
$’000

Purchased 
credit-impaired
$’000

79

167
167
246

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

Total
₦ million
5,755

9,548
–
9,548
 15,303

Total
$’000

18,790

 26,529 
–
 26,529 
 45,319 

Total
₦ million
23

 60 
 60 

10
93

Total
$’000

79

167
167
246

Estimation uncertainty in measuring impairment loss

e. 
The table below shows information on the sensitivity of the carrying amounts of the Group’s financial assets to the methods, assumptions 
and estimates used in calculating impairment losses on those financial assets at the end of the reporting period. These methods, 
assumptions and estimates have a significant risk of causing material adjustments to the carrying amounts of the Group’s financial assets. 

Expected cash flows recoverable

i. 
The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Group’s profit before tax to a 20% change in the expected cash flows from financial 
assets, with all other variables held constant:

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
$’000

41
(41)

–
–

108
(108)

–
–

Increase/decrease in estimated cash flows
+20%
-20%

186

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Increase/decrease in estimated cash flows
+20%
-20%

Effect on profit  
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other  
components of  
equity  
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit  
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
$’000

94
(94)

–
–

305
(305)

–
–

Significant unobservable inputs

ii. 
The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Group’s profit before tax to movements in the loss given default (LGD) for financial assets, 
with all other variables held constant:

Increase/decrease in loss given default
+10%
-10%

Increase/decrease in loss given default
+10%
-10%

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
$’000

(285)
285

–
–

(749)
749

–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
$’000

(46)
46

–
–

(145)
145

–
–

The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Group’s profit before tax to movements in probabilities of default, with all other variables 
held constant:

Increase/decrease in probability of default
+10%
-10%

Increase/decrease in probability of default
+10%
-10%

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
$’000

(188)
188

–
–

(496)
496

–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
$’000

(49)
49

–
–

(159)
159

–
–

The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Group’s profit before tax to movements in the forward-looking macroeconomic indicators, 
with all other variables held constant:

Increase/decrease in forward-looking macroeconomic indicators
+10%
-10%

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2020
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2020
$’000

(230)
230

–
–

(605)
605

–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
$’000

Increase/decrease in forward-looking macroeconomic indicators
+10%
-10%

(46)
46

–
–

(145)
145

–
–

187

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

Financial risk factors continued

6.1 
6.1.4  Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group manages liquidity risk by 
ensuring that sufficient funds are available to meet its commitments as they fall due.

The Group uses both long-term and short-term cash flow projections to monitor funding requirements for activities and to ensure there are 
sufficient cash resources to meet operational needs. Cash flow projections take into consideration the Group’s debt financing plans and 
covenant compliance. Surplus cash held is transferred to the treasury department which invests in interest-bearing current accounts, time 
deposits and money market deposits.

The following table details the Group’s remaining contractual maturity for its non-derivative financial liabilities with agreed maturity periods. 
The table has been drawn based on the undiscounted cash flows of the financial liabilities based on the earliest date on which the Group can 
be required to pay.

Effective interest 
rate
%

Less than  
1 year
₦ million

1 – 2  
year
₦ million

2 – 3  
years
₦ million

3 – 5  
years
₦ million

Total
₦ million

31 December 2020
Non-derivatives
Fixed interest rate borrowings
Senior notes
Variable interest rate borrowings
Citibank, N.A., London Branch
Nedbank Limited London
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
RMB International (Mauritius) Limited
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch
Standard Chartered Bank
Natixis 
Société Générale, London Branch
Zenith Bank Plc
United Bank for Africa Plc
First City Monument Bank Limited
First Bank of Nigeria
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc/The Standard Bank  
of South Africa Limited

Total variable interest borrowings
Other non-derivatives
Trade and other payables**
Lease liability

Total 

9.25%

 – 

 – 

133,000

6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
8% + LIBOR
8% + LIBOR

 724 
 724 
 362 
 362 
 724 
 724 
 543 
 543 
 543 
 271 
 271 
 271 
 271 
 1,140 
 3,268 

 10,133 
 10,133 
 5,067 
 5,067 
 10,133 
 10,133 
 7,600 
 7,600 
 7,600 
 3,800 
 3,800 
 3,800 
 3,800 
 2,993 
 8,579 

8% + LIBOR

 5,092 

 13,367 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 428 
 1,226 

 1,910 

 15,833 

 113,605 

 3,564 

 130,468 
 933 
 131,401 
 147,234 

–
 895 
 895 
 114,500 

–
 731 
 731 
 137,295 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 

–

–
 25 
 25 
 25 

133,000

 10,857 
 10,857 
 5,429 
 5,429 
 10,857 
 10,857 
 8,143 
 8,143 
 8,143 
 4,071 
 4,071 
 4,071 
 4,071 
 4,561 
 13,073 

 20,369 

133,002

 130,468 
 2,584 
 133,052 
 399,054 

188

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Effective interest 
rate
%

Less than  
1 year
₦ million

1 – 2  
year
₦ million

2 – 3  
years
₦ million

3 – 5  
years
₦ million

Total
₦ million

9.25%

31 December 2019
Non-derivatives
Fixed interest rate borrowings
Senior notes
Variable interest rate borrowings
6.0% +LIBOR
Citibank, N.A., London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Nedbank Limited London
6.0% +LIBOR
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
6.0% +LIBOR
RMB International (Mauritius) Limited
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
6.0% +LIBOR
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch 6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
Standard Chartered Bank
6.0% +LIBOR
Natixis 
6.0% +LIBOR
Société Générale, London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Zenith Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
United Bank for Africa Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
First City Monument Bank Limited

Acquired through business combination – 
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc & The Mauritius 
Commercial Bank Ltd
Total variable interest borrowings
Other non-derivatives
Trade and other payables**
Lease liability

Total 

8.0% +LIBOR

10,105

10,077

10,077

112,475

142,734

1,020
1,020
 510 
 510 
1,020
1,020
 764 
 764 
 764 
 383 
 383 
 383 
 383 
8,924

 10,230 
19,154

 114,388 
 247 
 114,635 
 143,894 

5,078
5,078
 2,539 
 2,539 
5,078
5,078
 3,808 
 3,808 
 3,808 
 1,904 
 1,904 
 1,904 
 1,904 
44,430

 9,461
53,891

 – 
 155 
 155 
 64,123 

 4,750
 4,750
 2,375 
 2,375 
 4,750
 4,750
 3,564 
 3,564 
 3,564 
 1,781 
 1,781 
 1,781 
 1,781 
41,566

 7,844 
49,410

 – 
 1,059 
 1,059 
 60,546 

 4,421
 4,421
2,211
2,211
 4,421
 4,421
 3,316 
 3,316 
 3,316 
 1,658 
 1,658 
 1,658 
 1,658 
38,686

 5,835 
44,521

 – 
 2,036 
 2,036 
 159,032 

15,269
15,269
 7,635 
 7,635 
15,269
15,269
 11,452 
 11,452 
 11,452 
 5,726 
 5,726 
 5,726 
 5,726 
133,606

 33,370 
166,976

114,388 
 3,496 
 117,884 
 427,594 

189

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

Financial risk factors continued

6.1 
6.1.4  Liquidity risk continued

Effective  
interest rate
%

Less than  
1 year
$’000

1 – 2  
year
$’000

2 – 3  
years
$’000

3 – 5  
years
$’000

Total
$’000

31 December 2020
Non-derivatives
Fixed interest rate borrowings
Senior notes
Variable interest rate borrowings
Citibank, N.A., London Branch
Nedbank Limited London
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
RMB International (Mauritius) Limited
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch
Standard Chartered Bank
Natixis 
Société Générale, London Branch
Zenith Bank Plc
United Bank for Africa Plc
First City Monument Bank Limited
First Bank of Nigeria
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc/The Standard Bank  
of South Africa Limited

Total variable interest borrowings
Other non – derivatives
Trade and other payables**
Lease liability

Total 

9.25%

 – 

 – 

350,000

6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
8% + LIBOR
8% + LIBOR

 1,905 
 1,905 
 952 
 952 
 1,905 
 1,905 
 1,429 
 1,429 
 1,429 
 714 
 714 
 714 
 713 
 3,000 
 8,600 

 26,667 
 26,667 
 13,333 
 13,333 
 26,667 
 26,667 
 20,000 
 20,000 
 20,000 
 10,000 
 10,000 
 10,000 
 10,000 
 7,875 
 22,575 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 1,125 
 3,225 

8% + LIBOR

 13,400 

 35,175 

 5,025 

 41,666 

 298,959 

 9,375 

343,341
2,455
345,796
387,462

 – 
2,354
2,354
301,313

 – 
1,924
1,924
361,299

 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 
67
67
67

350,000

 28,572 
 28,572 
 14,285 
 14,285 
 28,572 
 28,572 
 21,429 
 21,429 
 21,429 
 10,714 
 10,714 
 10,714 
 10,713 
 12,000 
 34,400 

 53,600 

350,000

343,324
6,800
350,141
1,050,142

190

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Effective  
interest rate
%

Less than  
1 year
$’000

1 – 2  
year
$’000

2 – 3  
years
$’000

3 – 5  
years
$’000

Total
$’000

 32,915 

 32,825 

 32,825 

 366,367 

464,932

9.25%

31 December 2019
Non-derivatives
Fixed interest rate borrowings
Senior notes
Variable interest rate borrowings
6.0% +LIBOR
Citibank, N.A., London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Nedbank Limited London
6.0% +LIBOR
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
6.0% +LIBOR
RMB International (Mauritius) Limited
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
6.0% +LIBOR
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch 6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
Standard Chartered Bank
6.0% +LIBOR
Natixis 
6.0% +LIBOR
Société Générale, London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Zenith Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
United Bank for Africa Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
First City Monument Bank Limited

 3,321 
 3,321 
 1,661 
 1,661 
 3,321 
 3,321 
 2,491 
 2,491 
 2,491 
 1,246 
 1,246 
 1,246 
 1,246 
29,063

 16,540 
 16,540 
 8,270 
 8,270 
 16,540 
 16,540 
 12,405 
 12,405 
 12,405 
 6,203 
 6,203 
 6,203 
 6,203 
144,727

Acquired through business combination – 
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc & The Mauritius 
Commercial Bank Ltd
Total variable interest borrowings
Other non-derivatives
Trade and other payables**
Lease liability

Total 

8.0% +LIBOR

33,322
62,385

30,820
175,547

 372,599
 803 
 373,402 
 468,702 

–
 505 
 505 
 208,877 

 15,471 
 15,471 
 7,736 
 7,736 
 15,471 
 15,471 
 11,604 
 11,604 
 11,604 
 5,802 
 5,802 
 5,802 
 5,802 
135,376

 25,549
160,925

–
 3,449 
 3,449 
 197,199 

 14,402 
 14,402 
 7,201 
 7,201 
 14,402 
 14,402 
 10,802 
 10,802 
 10,802 
 5,401 
 5,401 
 5,401 
 5,401 
126,020

19,005
145,025

–
 6,632 
 6,632 
 518,024 

 49,734 
 49,734 
 24,868 
 24,868 
 49,734 
 49,734 
 37,302 
 37,302 
 37,302 
 18,652 
 18,652 
 18,652 
 18,652 
435,186

108,696
543,882

 372,599 
 11,389 
 383,988 
 1,392,802 

Trade and other payables (exclude non-financial liabilities such as provisions, taxes, pension and other non-contractual payables)

6.1.5  Fair value measurements
Set out below is a comparison by category of carrying amounts and fair value of all financial instruments:

Financial assets at amortised cost
Trade and other receivables*
Contract assets
Cash and bank balances

Financial assets at fair value
Derivative financial instruments (Note 26)

Financial liabilities at amortised cost
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Trade and other payables

Financial liabilities at fair value
Derivative financial instruments (Note 26)

Carrying amount

Fair value

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

58,398
 2,343 
98,315
159,056

–
–

 35,225 
6,527
 102,240 
143,992

 457 
 457 

58,398
 2,343 
98,315
159,056

–
–

 35,225 
 6,527 
 102,240 
143,992

 457 
 457 

265,398
 93,537 
 358,935 

 242,349 
 106,260 
 348,609 

 277,170 
 93,537 
 370,707 

 229,805 
 106,260 
 336,065 

626
626

–
–

626
626

–
–

191

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.1 
Financial risk factors continued
6.1.5  Fair value measurements continued

Financial assets at amortised cost
Trade and other receivables*
Contract assets
Cash and bank balances

Financial assets at fair value
Derivative financial instruments (Note 26)

Financial liabilities at amortised cost
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Trade and other payables

Financial liabilities at fair value
Derivative financial instruments (Note 26)

Carrying amount

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

Fair value

2020
$’000

153,680
 6,167 
258,718
418,565

–
–

114,740 
 21,259 
 333,028 
469,027

 1,486 
 1,486 

153,680
 6,167 
258,718
418,565

–
–

2019
$’000

 114,740 
 21,259 
 333,028 
469,027

 1,486 
 1,486 

698,415
 246,150 
 944,565 

 789,408 
 346,125 
1,135,533 

729,395
 246,150 
 975,545 

 748,551 
 346,125 
 1,094,676 

1,648
1,648

–
–

1,648
1,648

–
–

*Trade and other receivables exclude Geregu Power, Sapele Power and NGMC VAT receivables, cash advances and advance payments.

In determining the fair value of the interest-bearing loans and borrowings, non-performance risks of the Group as at year end were assessed 
to be insignificant. 

Trade and other payables (exclude non-financial liabilities such as provisions, taxes, pension and other non-contractual payables), trade and 
other receivables (excluding prepayments), contract assets and cash and bank balances are financial instruments whose carrying amounts 
as per the financial statements approximate their fair values. This is mainly due to their short-term nature. 

6.1.6  Fair value hierarchy 
As at the reporting period, the Group had classified its financial instruments into the three levels prescribed under the accounting standards. 
There were no transfers of financial instruments between fair value hierarchy levels during the year.

• Level 1 – Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

• Level 2 – Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly 

observable.

• Level 3 – Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable.

The fair value of the financial instruments is included at the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an 
orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

Recurring fair value measurements
Financial liability

31 Dec 2020

Financial liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments

Financial assets

31 Dec 2019

Financial assets:
Derivative financial instruments

Level 1
₦ million 

Level 2
₦ million

Level 3
₦ million

Level 1
$’000

Level 2
$’000

Level 3
$’000

 – 

(626)

 – 

 – 

(1,648)

 – 

Level 1
₦ million 

Level 2
₦ million

Level 3
₦ million

Level 1
$’000

–
–

457
457

–
–

–
–

Level 2
$’000

1,486
1,486

Level 3
$’000

–
–

The fair value of the Group’s derivative financial instruments has been determined using a proprietary pricing model that uses marked to 
market valuation. The valuation represents the mid-market value and the actual close-out costs of trades involved. The market inputs to the 
model are derived from observable sources. Other inputs are unobservable but are estimated based on the market inputs or by using other 
pricing models. The derivative financial instruments are in level 2.

Financial liabilities

31 Dec 2020

Financial liabilities:
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Level 1
₦ million 

Level 2
₦ million

Level 3
₦ million

Level 1
$’000

Level 2
$’000

Level 3
$’000

–

277,170

–

–

729,395

–

192

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Recurring fair value measurements continued
Financial liabilities continued

31 Dec 2019

Financial liabilities:
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Level 1
₦ million 

Level 2
₦ million

Level 3
₦ million

Level 1
$’000

Level 2
$’000

Level 3
$’000

 – 
–

229,805
229,805

 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

748,551
748,551

 – 
–

The fair value of the Group’s interest-bearing loans and borrowings is determined by using discounted cash flow models that use market 
interest rates as at the end of the period. The interest-bearing loans and borrowings are in level 2. 

The valuation process
The finance & planning team of the Group performs the valuations of financial and non-financial assets required for financial reporting 
purposes, including level 3 fair values. This team reports directly to the General Manager (GM) Commercial who reports to the Chief Financial 
Officer (CFO) and the Audit Committee (AC). Discussions of valuation processes and results are held between the GM and the valuation team 
at least once every quarter, in line with the Group’s quarterly reporting periods.

6.1.7  Capital management 
Risk management
The Group’s objective when managing capital is to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for 
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders, to maintain optimal capital structure and reduce cost of capital. Consistent with others in 
the industry, the Group monitors capital on the basis of the following gearing ratio, net debt divided by total capital. Net debt is calculated as 
total borrowings less cash and bank balances.

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Lease liabilities
Less: cash and bank balances
Net debt
Total equity
Total capital
Net debt (net debt/total capital) ratio

2020
₦ million
265,398
 2,270 
 (98,315)
169,353
632,337
801,690
21%

2019
₦ million
242,349
 2,829 
 (102,240)
 142,938 
 553,808 
 696,746 
21%

2020
$’000

698,415
 5,974 
 (258,718)
439,697
1,664,045
2,103,742
21%

2019
$’000

 789,408 
 9,210 
 (333,028)
 465,590 
 1,803,939 
 2,269,529 
21%

During the year, the Group’s strategy, which was unchanged from 2019, was to maintain a net debt gearing ratio of 20% to 40%. Capital 
includes share capital, share premiums, capital contribution and all other equity reserves.

As the Group continuously reviews its funding and maturity profile, it continues to monitor the market in ensuring that it's well positioned for 
any refinancing and or buy back opportunities for the current debt facilities – including potentially the US$350 million 9.25% 144A/Reg S 
bond maturing in 2023.

Loan covenant
Under the terms of the major borrowing facilities, the Group is required to comply with the following financial covenants:

• Total net financial indebtedness to annualised EBITDA is not to be greater than 3:1.

• The sources of funds exceed the relevant expenditures in each semi-annual period within the 18 months shown in the Group’s liquidity plan.

• The minimum production levels stipulated for each six-month period must be achieved.

• The Cash Adjusted Debt Service Cover Ratio should be equal to or greater than 1.20 to 1 for each Calculation Period through to the applicable 

Termination Date.

The Group has complied with these covenants throughout the reporting periods.

7. 

Segment reporting

Business segments are based on the Group’s internal organisation and management reporting structure. The Group’s business segments are 
the two core businesses: Oil and Gas. The Oil segment deals with the exploration, development and production of crude oil while the Gas 
segment deals with the production and processing of gas. These two reportable segments make up the total operations of the Group. 

For the year ended 31 December 2020, revenue from the gas segment of the business constituted 21% (2019: 29%) of the Group’s revenue. 
Management is committed to continued growth of the gas segment of the business, including through increased investment to establish 
additional offices, create a separate gas business operational management team and procure the required infrastructure for this segment of 
the business. The gas business is positioned separately within the Group and reports directly to the chief operating decision maker. As the 
Gas business segment’s revenues, results and cash flows are largely independent of other business units within the Group, it is regarded as a 
separate segment.

The result is two reporting segments, Oil and Gas. There were no intersegment sales during the reporting periods under consideration, 
therefore all revenue was from external customers. 

193

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20207. 

Segment reporting continued

Amounts relating to the Gas segment are determined using the gas cost centres, with the exception of depreciation. Depreciation relating to 
the Gas segment is determined by applying a percentage which reflects the proportion of the Net Book Value of oil and gas properties that 
relates to gas investment costs (i.e. cost for the gas processing facilities).

The Group accounting policies are also applied in the segment reports. 

7.1 

Segment profit disclosure

Oil 
Gas 
Total (loss)/profit from continued operations for the year

Oil

Revenue from contract with customers
Crude oil sales (Note 8)
Operating profit before depreciation, amortisation 
and impairment
Depreciation and amortisation
Impairment
Operating (loss)/profit
Finance income (Note 14)
Finance costs (Note 14)
(Loss)/profit before taxation
Income tax credit/(expense) (Note 15)
(Loss)/profit for the period

Gas

Revenue from contract with customer
Gas sales 
Gas processing 

Operating profit before depreciation, amortisation 
and impairment
Depreciation and amortisation
(Impairment loss)/reversal of impairment loss
Operating profit
Share of profit from joint venture accounted 
for using equity accounting
Profit before taxation
Taxation
Profit for the year

2020
₦’million
 (56,471)
25,759
 (30,712)

2019
₦’million
 26,623 
 54,352 
 80,975 

2020
$’000

 (156,893)
71,571
 (85,322)

2019
$’000

 86,743 
 177,099 
 263,842 

2020
₦’million

2019
₦’million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

 150,422 

 151,954 

 417,941 

 495,104 

64,977
 (52,766)
 (51,856)
 (39,645)
 601 
 (18,656)
 (57,700)
 1,229 
 (56,471)

2020
₦’million

 40,500 
 – 
 40,500 

 32,024 
 (3,700)
(97)
28,227

 601 
28,828
 (3,069)
25,759

 81,984 
 (25,570)
 (14,692)
 41,722 
 4,134 
 (10,294)
 35,562 
 (8,939)
 26,623 

2019
₦’million

 41,668 
 20,535 
 62,203 

 60,277 
 (6,031)
 (219)
 54,027 

 325 
 54,352 
 – 
 54,352 

159,979
 (126,044)
 (144,080)
 (110,145)
 1,671 
 (51,834)
 (160,308)
 3,415 
 (156,893)

 268,597 
 (84,792)
 (47,869)
 135,936 
 13,471 
 (33,539)
 115,868 
 (29,125)
 86,743 

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

 112,526 
 – 
 112,526 

 88,977 
 (10,279)
(269)
78,429

 1,670 
80,099
 (8,528)
71,571

 135,761 
 66,912 
 202,673 

 188,835 
 (12,085)
 (712)
 176,039 

 1,060 
 177,099 
 – 
 177,099 

During the reporting period, impairment losses recognised in the Gas segment relates to Geregu Power, Sapele Power and NGMC. Impairment 
losses recognised in the Oil segment relate to receivables from trade receivables (Pillar and Mercuria) NPDC, NAPIMS and other receivables. 
See Note 12 for further details.

7.1.1  Disaggregation of revenue from contracts with customers
The Group derives revenue from the transfer of commodities at a point in time or over time and from different geographical regions. 

2020
Oil
₦’million

 53,587 
 96,835 
 150,422 

 150,422 
 – 
 150,422 

2020
Gas 
₦’million

 40,500 
 – 
 40,500 

 – 
 40,500 
 40,500 

2020
Total
₦’million

 94,087 
 96,835 
 190,922 

 150,422 
 40,500 
 190,922 

2020
Oil
$’000

 148,890 
 269,051 
 417,941

 417,941 
 – 
 417,941 

2020
Gas 
$’000

 112,526 
 – 
 112,526 

 – 
 112,526 
 112,526 

2020
Total
$’000

 261,416 
 269,051 
 530,467 

 417,941 
 112,526 
 530,467 

Geographical markets
Nigeria
Switzerland
Revenue from contract with customers
Timing of revenue recognition
At a point in time
Over time
Revenue from contract with customers

194

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Geographical markets
Nigeria
Switzerland
Revenue from contract with customers
Timing of revenue recognition
At a point in time
Over time
Revenue from contract with customers

2019
Oil
₦’million

 13,424 
 138,530 
 151,954 

 151,954 
–
 151,954 

2019
Gas 
₦’million

 62,203 
–
 62,203 

–
 62,203 
 62,203 

2019
Total
₦’million

 75,627 
 138,530 
 214,157 

 151,954 
 62,203 
 214,157 

2019
Oil
$’000

 43,740 
 451,364 
 495,104 

 495,104 
–
 495,104 

2019
Gas 
$’000

 202,673 
–
 202,673 

–
 202,673 
 202,673 

2019
Total
$’000

 246,413 
 451,364 
 697,777 

 495,104 
 202,673 
 697,777 

The Group’s transactions with its major customer, Mercuria, constitutes more than 64% ($269 million, ₦97 billion) of the total revenue from 
the Oil segment and the Group as a whole. Also, the Group’s transactions with Geregu Power, Sapele Power and NGMC ($63 million, 
₦22.7 billion) accounted for more than 59% of the total revenue from the Gas segment and the Group as a whole.

7.1.2 

Impairment/(reversal of) losses on financial assets by reportable segments

Impairment losses recognised  
during the period
Receivables written off during  
the year as uncollectible
Reversal of previous impairment losses

Impairment losses recognised during  
the period
Receivables written off during the year 
as uncollectible
Reversal of previous impairment losses

2020
Oil
₦’million

 10,761 

 – 
 (80)
 10,681 

2020
Oil
$’000

 29,899 

 – 
 (221)
 29,678 

2020
Gas 
₦’million

2020
Total
₦’million

2019
Oil
₦’million

2019
Gas 
₦’million

97 

 – 
 – 
 97 

2020
Gas 
$’000

 269 

 – 
 – 
 269 

 10,858 

1,870

 – 
 (80)
 10,778 

2020
Total
$’000

14,871
(2,049)
14,692

2019
Oil
$’000

 30,168 

6,097 

 – 
 (221)
 29,947 

 48,439 
 (6,667)
47,869

219

–
 – 
 219 

2019
Gas 
$’000

 712 

–
 – 
 712 

2019
Total
₦’million

2,089

14,871
 (2,049)
 14,911 

2019
Total
$’000

 6,809 

 48,439 
(6,667)
 48,581

7.1.3 

Impairment/(reversal of) losses on non-financial assets by reportable segments

Impairment losses recognised during 
the period

Impairment losses recognised during  
the period

2020
Oil
₦’million

41,175
41,175

2020
Oil
$’000

114,402
114,402

2020
Gas 
₦’million

 – 
 – 

2020
Gas 
$’000

 – 
 – 

2020
Total
₦’million

41,175
41,175

2020
Total
$’000

114,402
114,402

2019
Oil
₦’million

2019
Gas 
₦’million

2019
Total
₦’million

 – 
–

2019
Oil
$’000

 – 
–

 – 
–

2019
Gas 
$’000

 – 
–

 – 
–

2019
Total
$’000

 – 
–

Segment assets

7.2 
Segment assets are measured in a manner consistent with that of the financial statements. These assets are allocated based on the 
operations of the reporting segment and the physical location of the asset. The Group had no non-current assets domiciled outside Nigeria.

Total segment assets 

31 December 2020
31 December 2019

Oil
₦’million
1,101,463
763,322

Gas 
₦’million
209,374
240,911

Total
₦’million
1,310,837
1,004,233

Oil
$’000

2,898,588
2,563,147

Gas 
$’000

550,985
707,963

Total
$’000

3,449,573
3,271,110

Segment liabilities

7.3 
Segment liabilities are measured in a manner consistent with that of the financial statements. These liabilities are allocated based on the 
operations of the segment.

Total segment liabilities

31 December 2020
31 December 2019

Oil
₦’million
654,095
434,334

Gas 
₦’million
24,405
16,091

Total
₦’million
678,500
450,425

Oil
$’000

1,721,305
1,398,462

Gas 
$’000

64,223
68,709

Total
$’000

1,785,528
1,467,171

195

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20208.  Revenue from contracts with customers

Crude oil sales 
Gas sales
Gas processing

2020
₦ million
 150,422 
 40,500 
 – 
 190,922 

2019
₦ million
 151,954 
 41,668 
 20,535 
 214,157 

2020
$’000

 417,941 
 112,526 
 – 
 530,467 

2019
$’000

 495,104 
 135,761 
 66,912 
 697,777 

The major off-taker for crude oil is Mercuria and Shell Western. The major off-taker for gas is Geregu Power, Sapele Power, Nigerian Gas 
Marketing Company and Azura.

Gas processing is revenue received from Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) for processing its share of the gas extracted from 
OML 4, 38 and 41 from 2015 to 2018. Subsequently, NPDC acquired 55% stake in the gas plant, as a result of this acquisition, Seplat has 
ceased to process gas for NPDC.

9.  Cost of sales 

Royalties
Depletion, depreciation and amortisation (Note 17.7)
Crude handling fees
Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) fee
Barging and Trucking
Niger Delta Development Commission Levy
Rig related costs
Operational & maintenance expenses

2020
₦ million
36,483
45,876
 20,198 
 130 
 5,753 
 3,224 
 – 
34,424
 146,088 

2019
₦ million
 29,654 
 27,952 
 17,616 
 181 
–
 2,599 
 1,872 
 12,824 
 92,698 

2020
$’000

 101,366 
127,464
 56,119 
 361 
 15,986 
 8,957 
 – 
95,639
405,892

2019
$’000

 96,622 
 91,075 
 57,396 
 589 
–
 8,469 
 6,101 
 41,787 
 302,039 

Operational & maintenance expenses relates mainly to maintenance costs, gas flare penalty, warehouse operations expenses, security 
expenses, community expenses, clean-up costs, fuel supplies and catering services. Included in operational and maintenance is a gas flare 
penalty of $6.2million. Also included in operational & maintenance expenses are OML 40 and OML 17 Ubima field expenses totalling 
$42million for Eland group which were not included in 2019 financials.

Barging and Trucking relates to costs for the OML 40 Gbetiokun field and OML 17 Ubima field respectively under Eland Group, which were not 
included in 2019 financials.

10.  Other income

Underlift/(Overlift)
(Loss)/gain on foreign exchange 
Gains on disposal of oil and gas assets
Crude hedging income
Provision no longer required (Note 33)
Tariffs

2020
₦ million
17,996
(680)
1
9,487
2,597
783
30,184

2019
₦’million
 (2,101)
 735 
 9,462 
 – 
 – 
1,074
 9,170 

2020
$’000

50,001
(1,890)
3
26,358
7,217
2,175
83,864

2019
$’000

 (6,847)
 2,395 
 30,830 
 – 
 – 
3,498
 29,876 

Overlifts are excess crude lifted above the share of production. It may exist when the crude oil lifted by the Group during the period is above its 
ownership share of production. Overlifts are initially measured at the market price of oil at the date of lifting and recognised in profit or loss.  
At each reporting period, overlifts are remeasured at the current market value. The resulting change, as a result of the remeasurement, is also 
recognised in profit or loss.

Underlifts are shortfalls of crude lifted below the share of production. It may exist when the crude oil lifted by the Group during the period is 
less than its ownership share of production. The shortfall is initially measured at the market price of oil at the date of lifting and recognised  
as other income. At each reporting period, the shortfall is remeasured at the current market value. The resulting change, as a result of the 
remeasurement, is also recognised in profit or loss as other income.

(Loss)/gains on foreign exchange are principally as a result of translation of Naira denominated monetary assets and liabilities. 

Provision no longer required relates to contingent liability initially recognised on acquisition of Eland. The liability is an outcome of the 
European union state aid – UK Controlled Foreign Companies (CFC) case required companies in tax efficient jurisdictions to assess the profit 
allocable to UK significant people functions (SPFs).

Tariffs, which is a form of crude handling fee, relate to income generated from the use of the Group’s pipeline.

196

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
11.  General and administrative expenses

Depreciation (Note 17.5)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets (Note 19)
Auditor’s remuneration
Professional and consulting fees
Directors’ emoluments (executive)
Directors’ emoluments (non-executive)
Donations
Employee benefits (Note 11.1)
Flights and other travel costs
Rentals 

2020
₦ million
 1,936 
 1,254 
366
4,111
 1,642 
 1,284 
 158 
15,179
 1,257 
 185 
27,372

2019
₦’million
 872 
 908 
 170 
 3,195 
 770 
 1,056 
 73 
 11,565 
 2,792 
 274 
21,675

2020
$’000

 5,376 
 3,483 
1,017
11,421
 4,561 
 3,567 
 439 
42,172
 3,495 
 516 
76,047

2019
$’000

 2,841 
 2,960 
553 
 10,408 
 2,508 
 3,440 
 237 
 37,681 
 9,097 
 892 
 70,617

Included in employee benefits are Eland staff costs of ₦3.6 billion ($10.2 million). There were non-audit services rendered by the Group’s 
auditors during the period. Share-based payment expenses are included in employee benefits expense.

11.1  Salaries and employee related costs include the following:

Short-term employee benefits:
Basic salary
Housing allowances
Other allowances
Post-employment benefits:
Defined contribution expenses
Defined benefit expenses (Note 35.2)
Other employee benefits:
Share-based payment expenses (Note 28.2)

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

8,458
1,356
2,374

726
409

1,856
15,179

 5,300 
 622
 1,814 

 622 
 343 

2,864
 11,565 

2020
$’000

23,498
3,768
6,596

2,018
1,135

5,157
42,172

2019
$’000

 17,272 
 2,026 
 6,017 

 2,026 
 1,117 

 9,223 
 37,681 

Other allowances relate to staff bonus, car allowances and relocation expenses.

11.2  Below are details of non-audit services provided by the auditors:
Entity

Service

PWC office

Fees ($)

Seplat Petroleum Development UK
Eland Oil and Gas Limited
Seplat Petroleum Development UK

Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc
Seplat Petroleum Development UK

Tax compliance
Review of G&A costs allocation
VAT compliance service
Remuneration committee 
support, advice to management 
on reward matters
PWC UK
Personal/individual tax services PWC UK

PWC UK
PWC UK
PWC UK

27,300
68,250
13,650

750,750
27,300

Year

2021
2020
2020

2020
2021

11.3  Below are details of assurance service providers to the Group during the year:

S/N

Name of Signer

Name of firm

Service rendered

1

2
3
4

Gen Wingrave*
Tosin Famurewa*
Stephen T. Philips*
Matthew Johnson*
Ganiu Shefiu*

*The signers and firms do not have FRCN numbers.

RPS Group (UK)

Decommissioning cost valuation

Ryder Scott Petroleum Consultants
Ascension Consulting
Logic Professional Service

Reserve valuation
Tax consultancy service
Actuarial valuation service

197

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
12. 

Impairment loss

Impairment losses on financial assets – net (Note 12.1)
Impairment loss on non-financial assets (Note 12.2)

12.1 

Impairment losses on financial assets – net

Impairment losses on:
NAPIMS receivables
NPDC receivables
Other receivables 
Trade receivables (Geregu Power, Sapele Power and NGMC)
Short-term deposits
Other trade receivables
Trade receivables (Mercuria)

Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible

Reversal of impairment losses on:
Mercuria
NPDC receivables
Short-term deposits

Exchange difference
Total impairment loss allowance

12.2 

Impairment loss on non-financial assets:

Impairment loss

2020
₦ million
 10,778 
41,175
51,953

2020
₦ million

 456 
 171 
 9,548 
 97 
 60 
 525 
 – 
 10,857 
 – 
 10,857 

 (80)
 – 
 – 
 (80)
1
 10,778 

2020
₦ million
41,175

2019
₦ million
 14,911 
 – 
 14,911 

2019
₦ million

 23 
 – 
 1,540 
 219 
–
 239 
 68 
 2,089 
 14,871 
 16,960 

 – 
 (2,036)
 (13)
 (2,049)
 – 
 14,911 

2019
₦ million
 – 

2020
$’000

 29,947 
114,402
144,349

2019
$’000

 48,581 
 – 
 48,581 

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

 1,268 
 476 
 26,529 
 269 
 167 
 1,459 
 – 
 30,168 
 – 
 30,168 

 (221)
 – 
 – 
 (221)
 – 
 29,947 

2020
$’000

114,402

 77 
 – 
 5,020 
 712 
–
 779 
 221 
 6,809 
 48,439 
 55,248 

 – 
 (6,628)
 (39)
 (6,667)
 – 
 48,581 

2019
$’000

 – 

During the year, the Group recognised impairment loss of $114.4 million (₦41.1 billion) on its non-financial assets. The impairment is primarily 
as a result of re-assessment of future cash flows from the Group’s oil and gas properties due to significant fall in oil prices (see Notes 
18 and 20).

13.  Fair value gain/(loss)

Realised fair value losses on crude oil hedges
Unrealised fair value loss
Fair value gain on contingent consideration 
Fair value loss on other assets

2020
₦ million
(3,016)
(953)
–
(3,142)
(7,111)

2019
₦ million
 (1,733)
 (2,236)
 5,675 
–
 1,706 

2020
$’000

(8,380)
(2,649)
–
(8,730)
(19,759)

2019
$’000

 (5,160)
(7,770)
 18,489 
–
 5,559 

Fair value gain/(loss) on derivatives represents changes in the fair value of hedging receivables charged to profit or loss. In 2019, the write-off 
of the contingent consideration due to production milestones not achieved resulted in a gain. Fair value loss on other assets relates to 
changes in fair value of financial interest in OML 55 (see Note 18).

14.  Finance income/(cost)

Finance income
Interest income 
Finance cost
Interest on bank loans (Note 31)
Interest on lease liabilities (Note 32)
Unwinding of discount on provision for decommissioning (Note 34)

Finance (cost) – net

Finance income represents interest on short-term fixed deposits.

198

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

 601

4,134

1,671

13,471

(17,504)
(106)
(1,046)
(18,656)
(18,055)

 (8,890) 
 (164) 
 (1,240)
 (10,294) 
(6,160)

(48,634)
(295)
(2,905)
(51,834)
(50,163)

 (28,966) 
 (534) 
 (4,039)
 (33,539) 
(20,068)

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The capitalisation rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs to be capitalised is the weighted average interest rate applicable to 
the Group’s general borrowings denominated in dollars during the year, in this case 8.93% (2019: 12.33%). The amount capitalised during the 
year is ₦5.8 billion ($15.4 million), 2019: ₦6 billion ($21 million).

15.  Taxation

The major components of income tax expense for the years ended 31 December 2020 and 2019 are: 

Income tax expense

Current tax:
Current tax expense on profit for the year
Education tax
Total current tax 
Deferred tax:
Deferred tax expense in profit or loss (Note 15.6)
Total tax expense in statement of profit or loss
Deferred tax recognised in other comprehensive income (Note 15.6)
Total tax charge for the period
Effective tax rate 

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

4,170
749
4,919

(3,079)
1,840
25
1,865
(6%)

 6,009 
 955 
 6,964 

1,975
8,939
 (171)
 8,768 
10%

2020
$’000

11,586
2,082
13,668

(8,555)
5,113
69
5,182
(6%)

2019
$’000

 19,578 
 3,111 
 22,689 

6,436
29,125
 (558)
 28,567 
10%

15.1  Reconciliation of effective tax rate
The income tax expense is recognised based on management’s estimate of the weighted average effective annual income tax rate expected 
for the full financial year. The estimated annual tax rate used for the year ended 31 December 2020 is 85%, 65.75% for crude oil activities and 
30% for gas activities. As at 31 December 2019, the applicable tax rate was 85%, 65.75% and 30% respectively.

The effective tax rate for the period was (6%) (2019: 10%).

A reconciliation between income tax expense and accounting profit before income tax multiplied by the applicable statutory tax rate  
is as follows:

Profit before taxation
Tax rate of 85%, 65.75% and 30%
Tax effect of amounts which are not deductible (taxable) in calculating 
taxable income:
Income not subject to tax
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes
Recognition of previously unrecognised deductible temporary difference
Impact of unutilised tax losses
Effect of differences in tax rates
Effect of permanent differences
Impact of tax incentive
Education tax
Tax loss utilised
Impact of exchange difference
Total tax charge in statement of profit or loss

15.2  Current tax liabilities/(assets)
The movement in the current tax liabilities is as follows:

As at 1 January 
Tax charge
Tax paid
Acquired in business combination
As 31 December

2020
₦ million
(28,872)
7,882

 (32,594)
42,804
–
(3,079)
–
–
(13,922)
749
–
–
1,840

2020
₦ million
 5,679 
4,919
(2,337)
–
8,261

2019
₦ million
89,914
76,427

 (19,038)
 37,911 
 (34,050)
 1,975 
 (6,994)
 (801)
 (46,329)
 955 
 (1,119)
 2 
 8,939 

2019
₦ million
 (723)
 6,964 
(1,084)
 522 
5,679

2020
$’000

(80,209)
21,899

 (90,560)
118,929
–
(8,555)
–
–
(38,682)
2,082
–
–
5,113

2020
$’000

18,502
13,668
(10,431)
–
21,739

2019
$’000

292,967
249,022

 (62,029)
 123,525 
 (110,943)
 6,436 
 (22,789)
 (2,610)
 (150,953)
 3,111 
 (3,645)
 – 
 29,125 

2019
$’000

(2,356) 
22,689
(3,533)
 1,702 
18,502

199

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202015.  Taxation continued

15.3  Deferred tax
The analysis of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities is as follows:

Deferred tax assets

Deferred tax asset to be recovered within 12 months
Deferred tax asset to be recovered after more than 12 months

Deferred tax liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities to be recovered within 12 months
Deferred tax liabilities to be recovered after more than 12 months
Net deferred tax asset

2020
₦ million
9,437
280,440

2020
₦ million
(2,282)
(199,738)
87,857

2019
₦ million
–
 182,352 

2019
₦ million
–
 (113,985)
68,367

2020
$’000

33,151
729,682

2020
$’000

(7,456)
(524,176)
231,201

2019
$’000

–
 595,132 

2019
$’000

–
 (372,435)
222,697

15.4  Deferred tax assets
Deferred income tax assets are recognised for tax losses carried forward to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through 
future taxable profits is probable.

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Provision for defined benefit
Share-based payment plan
Unrealised foreign exchange loss on trade and other receivables
Overlift/(underlift)
Acquired in business combination
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Previously unrecognised deferred tax asset

Effect of exchange differences

Balance at 
1 January 2020
₦ million
–

(Charged)/ 
credited to profit 
or loss
₦ million
927

Credited to other 
comprehensive 
income
₦ million
–

Balance at 
31 December 
2020
₦ million
927

124,433
296
2,725
5,670
1,046
10,866
27,686
3,399
 6,050 
 182,171 
181
182,352

 44,563 
 824 
 1,080 
 723 
 17,093 
 (11,844)
 – 
 7,016 
 – 
 60,382 
 47,168 
 107,550 

–
–
(25)
–
–
–
–
–
–
(25)

(25)

 168,996 
 1,120 
 3,780 
 6,393 
 18,139 
 (978)
 27,686 
 10,415 
 6,050 
 242,528 
 47,349 
 289,877 

Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Provision for defined benefit
Share-based payment plan
Unrealised foreign exchange loss/(gain) on trade and other 
receivables
Overlift/(underlift)
Acquired in business combination
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Previously unrecognised deferred tax asset

Effect of exchange differences

Balance at 
1 January 2019
₦ million

(Charged)/ 
credited to profit 
or loss
₦ million

Credited to other 
comprehensive 
income
₦ million

Acquisition of 
subsidiary
₦ million

Balance at 
31 December 
2019
₦ million

116,068
818
1,540
3,294

1,258
5,246
–
2,071
–
 130,295 
183
130,478

8,365
(522)
1,014
 2,376 

 (212)
 5,620 
–
1,328
6,050
 24,019 
 (2)
 24,017 

–
–
171
–

–
–
–
–
–
171 
–
171

–
–
–

–
–
27,686
–
–
 27,686 

27,686

 124,433 
 296 
 2,725 
 5,670 

 1,046 
 10,866 
 27,686 
 3,399 
 6,050 
182,171
181
182,352

200

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Provision for defined benefit
Share-based payment plan
Unrealised Foreign exchange loss
Overlift/(underlift)
Acquired in business combination
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Previously unrecognised deferred tax asset

Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Provision for defined benefit
Share-based payment plan
Unrealised Foreign exchange loss/(gain)
Overlift/(underlift)
Acquired in business combination
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Previously unrecognised deferred tax asset

Balance at 
1 January 2020
$’000

(Charged)/
credited to profit 
or loss
$’000

–

2,576

 406,848 
 974 
 8,897 
 18,519 
 3,433 
 35,469 
 90,182 
 11,096 
 19,714 
 595,132 

 123,815 
 2,290 
 3,002 
 2,010 
 47,491 
 (32,907)
 – 
 19,493 
 – 
 167,770 

Credited  
to other 
comprehensive  
income
$’000

–

–
–
(69)
–
–
–
–
–
–
(69)

Balance at 
31 December 
2020
$’000

2,576

 530,663 
 3,264 
 11,830 
 20,529 
 50,924 
 2,562 
 90,182 
 30,589 
 19,714 
 762,833 

Balance at 
1 January 2019
$’000

(Charged)/
credited to profit 
or loss
$’000

Credited  
to other 
comprehensive  
income
$’000

Acquisition of 
subsidiary
$’000

Balance at 
31 December 
2019
$’000

 379,592 
 2,674 
 5,036 
 10,778 
 4,123 
 17,158
–
 6,770 
–
 426,131 

 27,256 
 (1,700)
 3,303 
 7,741 
 (690)
 18,311 
 – 
 4,326 
 19,714 
 78,261 

–
–
558
–
–
–
–
–
–
 558 

–
–
–
–
–
–
90,182
–
–
 90,182 

 406,848 
 974 
 8,897 
 18,519 
 3,433 
 35,469 
 90,182 
 11,096 
 19,714 
 595,132 

Previously unrecognised deferred tax asset relates Newton Energy Limited. The Company resumed payment of taxes in 2019.

15.5  Deferred tax liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for amounts of income taxes payable in future periods in respect of taxable temporary differences.

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets
Derivative financial instruments

Effect of exchange differences

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets
Derivative financial instruments

Effect of exchange differences

Balance at 
1 January 2020
₦ million
1,131

Charged
/(credited)
 to profit or loss
₦ million
–

Balance at 
31 December 
2020
₦ million
 1,131 

 110,582 
 2,282 
 113,995 
 (10)
 113,985 

 57,297 
 – 
 57,297 
 30,738 
 88,035 

 167,879 
 2,282 
 171,292 
 30,728 
 202,020 

Balance at 
1 January 2019
₦ million
12

Charged
/(credited)
 to profit or loss
₦ million
1,119

Balance at 
31 December 
2019
₦ million
1,131

85,706
2,282
 88,000 
 (10)
 87,990 

 24,876 
 – 
 25,995 
-
25,995

 110,582 
 2,282 
 113,995 
 (10)
 113,985 

201

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202015.  Taxation continued

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets
Derivative financial instruments

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets
Derivative financial instruments

15.6  Deferred tax recognised in profit or loss

Credited/(Charged) to profit or loss:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for defined benefit
Share-based payment plan
Overlift/(underlift)
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Unrecognised deferred tax asset
Tax losses
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Unrealised foreign exchange loss/(gain) on trade and other receivables
Fixed assets
Exchange difference
Total (charged) to profit or loss
Charged to other comprehensive income
Deferred tax credit/(expense) on remeasurement 

Balance at 
1 January 2020
$’000

Charged/
credited to profit 
or loss
$’000

Balance at 
31 December 
2020
$’000

3,645

 – 

3,645

361,334
 7,456 
372,435

 159,197 
 – 
159,197

520,531
 7,456 
531,632

Balance at 
1 January 2019
$’000

Charged/
credited to profit 
or loss
$’000

Balance at 
31 December 
2019
$’000

–

3,645

3,645

280,282
 7,456 
287,738

81,052
 – 
84,697

361,334
 7,456 
372,435

As at 31 Dec  
2020
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 
2019
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 
2020
$’000

As at 31 Dec 
2019
$’000

 44,563 
 1,080 
 723 
 (11,844)
 7,016 
 – 
 927 
 824 
 17,093 
 (57,297)
 (6)
3,079

(25)
(25)

 8,365 
 1,014 
 2,376 
 5,620 
 1,328 
 6,050 
 (1,119)
 (522)
 (212)
 (24,876)
1
(1,975)

171
171

 123,815 
 3,002 
 2,010 
 (32,907)
 19,493 
 – 
 2,576 
 2,290 
 47,491 
 (159,197)
 (18)
8,555

(69)
(69)

 27,256 
 3,303 
 7,741 
 18,311 
 4,326 
 19,714 
 (3,645)
 (1,700)
 (690)
 (81,052)
–
(6,436)

558
558

15.7  Unrecognised deferred tax assets
The unrecognised deferred tax assets relate to the Group’s subsidiaries and will be recognised once the entities return to profitability. 
There are no expiration dates for the unrecognised deferred tax assets.

Other deductible temporary differences 
Tax losses

Other deductible temporary differences
Tax losses

As at  
31 Dec 2020
₦’million
Gross amount 

As at  
31 Dec 2020
₦’million
Tax effect

As at  
31 Dec 2019
₦’million
Gross amount 

As at  
31 Dec 2019
₦’million
Tax effect

–
–
–

–
–
–

 2,469 
 6,429 
 8,898 

As at  
31 Dec 2020
$’000
Gross amount

As at  
31 Dec 2020
$’000
Tax effect

As at  
31 Dec 2019
$’000
Gross amount

–
–
–

–
–
–

 8,042 
 20,942 
 28,984 

 1,623 
4,227 
 5,850 

As at  
31 Dec 2019
$’000
Tax effect

 5,288 
 13,769 
 19,057 

15.8  Unrecognised deferred tax liabilities
There were no temporary differences associated with investments in the Group’s subsidiaries for which a deferred tax liability would have 
been recognised in the periods presented.

202

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
16.  Computation of cash generated from operations

Profit before tax
Continuing operations
Discontinued operations
Adjusted for:
Depletion, depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation of right-of-use asset
Impairment losses on financial assets
Impairment losses on non-financial assets
Gain on disposal of other property, plant and equipment
Interest income
Interest expense on bank loans 
Interest on lease liabilities
Unwinding of discount on provision for decommissioning
Fair value gain on contingent consideration
Fair value on other assets
Unrealised fair value loss on derivatives financial instrument
Unrealised foreign exchange gain 
Share-based payment expenses
Defined benefit expenses 
Gain on deconsolidation of subsidiary
Gain on disposal of oil and gas properties
Share of profit in joint venture
Provision no longer required
Changes in working capital: (excluding the effects of 
exchange differences)
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Prepayments
Contract assets
Net working capital on loss of control of subsidiary
Trade and other payables
Contract liabilities
Restricted cash
Net cash from operating activities

Notes

10

2020
₦ million

(28,872)
 – 

 47,811 
 1,254 
 10,778 
 41,175 
 (1)
 (601)
 17,504 
 106 
 1,046 
–
3,142
953
 (680)
 1,856 
409
 – 
 – 
 (601)
 (2,597)

72,754
 3,577 
 1,404 
 5,432 
 – 
 (45,156)
 (2,459)
 (9,676)
 118,558 

2019
₦ million

89,914
 4,041 

 28,824 
 908 
 14,911 
–
–
 (4,134)
 8,890 
 164 
 1,240 
 (5,675)
–
 2,236 
 (735)
 2,864 
 343 
 (3,869)
 (9,462)
 (325)
–

 (95,451)
 (1,007)
 6,864 
(11,606)
 (2,198)
 60,277 
 12,698 
 5,002 
104,714

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

(80,209)
 – 

 292,967
 13,166 

 132,840 
 3,483 
29,947
114,402
 (3)
 (1,671)
 48,634 
 295 
 2,905 
 – 
8,730
2,649
 (1,890)
 5,157 
 1,135 
 – 
 – 
 (1,670)
(7,217)

202,144
 9,938 
 3,901 
 15,092 
 – 
 (125,464)
 (6,831)
 (26,883)
 329,414

 93,916 
 2,960 
 48,581 
–
–
 (13,471)
 28,966 
 534 
 4,039 
 (18,489)
–
 7,770
 (2,395)
 9,223 
 1,117
 (12,604)
 (30,830)
 (1,060)
–

 (311,001)
 (3,280)
 22,365 
(37,816)
 (7,163)
 196,401 
 41,374 
 16,301 
341,571

203

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Production and  
field facilities
₦ million
 595,817 
 –
4,244
 –
 141,913 
741,974

Assets under 
construction
₦ million
 37,469 
52,089
–
5,753
 11,818 
107,129

Exploration 
and evaluation 
assets
₦ million
 18,072 
 – 
–
 – 
 4,295 
 22,367 

 172,986 
45,344
43,665
261,995

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

Total
₦ million
 651,358 
52,089
4,244
5,753
158,026
871,470

 172,986 
45,344
43,665
261,995

479,979

107,129

 22,367 

609,475

 480,556 
 34,130
19,567
 94,823
 – 
 (28,126)
 (5,142)
 – 
9
595,817

 151,989 
 27,511 
 (6,522)
 8 
 172,986

 61,914 
961
(19,567)
–
 (12,141)
–
–
6,308
 (6) 
 37,469

–
–
–
–
–

–
–

18,072
–
–
–
–
–
18,072

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 542,470 
 35,091
–
 112,895
 (12,141)
 (28,126)
 (5,142)
6,308
 3 
651,358

 151,989 
 27,511 
 (6,522)
 8 
 172,986

422,831

37,469

 18,072

478,372

17.  Property, plant and equipment

17.1  Oil and gas properties 

Cost

At 1 January 2020
Additions
Changes in decommissioning
Interest capitalised
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Charge for the year
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2020
NBV
At 31 December 2020

Cost

At 1 January 2019
Additions
Transfers
Acquired in business combination
Loss of control
Disposal of producing assets
Changes in decommissioning
Interest capitalised
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2019
Depreciation
At 1 January 2019
Charge for the year
Disposal of producing assets
Exchange difference
At 31 December 2019
NBV
At 31 December 2019

204

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Cost

At 1 January 2020
Additions
Changes in decommissioning
Interest capitalised
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2020
NBV
At 31 December 2020

Cost

At 1 January 2019
Additions
Transfers
Acquired in business combination
Loss of control
Disposal of producing assets
Changes in decommissioning
Interest capitalised
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2019
Depreciation
At 1 January 2019
Charge for the year
Disposal of producing assets
Exchange difference
At 31 December 2019

Production and 
field
 facilities
$’000

Assets under 
construction
$’000

Exploration 
and evaluation 
assets
$’000

 1,940,771
 – 
11,793
 – 
 1,952,564 

 563,473 
125,987
689,460

 122,050
 144,729 
–
15,140
281,919

 – 
 – 
 – 

58,865
 – 
–
 – 
 58,865 

 – 
 – 
 – 

Total
$’000

2,121,686
 144,729 
11,793
15,140
2,293,348

 563,473 
125,987
689,460

1,263,104

281,919

 58,865 

1,603,888

 1,565,328 
 111,207
63,755
 308,869
–
 (91,643)
 (16,745)
 – 
 – 
 1,940,771

 495,081 
 89,636 
 (21,244)
 – 
 563,473 

 201,676 
 3,132
(63,755)
 – 
 (39,557)
 – 
 – 
 20,554
 – 
 122,050

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

–
–
–
58,865
–
–
–
–
–
58,865

 – 
 – 
 –
 – 
 – 

1,767,004 
 114,339
–
 367,734
 (39,557)
 (91,643)
 (16,745)
 20,554 
 – 
2,121,686

 495,081 
 89,636 
 (21,244)
 – 
 563,473 

NBV

 1,377,298

122,050

58,865

1,558,213

Assets under construction represent costs capitalised in connection with the development of the Group’s oil fields and other property, plant 
and equipment not yet ready for their intended use. Some of which are qualifying assets that take a substantial period to get ready for its 
intended use. A capitalisation rate of 8.93*% (2019: 12.3%) has been determined and applied to the Group’s general borrowing to determine 
the borrowing cost capitalised as part of the qualifying assets. Borrowing costs capitalised during the year amounted to ₦5.8 billion, 2019: 
₦8 billion ($15.1 million, 2019: $26 million). There was no oil and gas property pledged as security during the reporting period.

Impairment testing
During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Group performed an impairment test. The Group considers the relationship between its market 
capitalisation and its book value, among other factors, when reviewing for indicators of impairment. As at 31 December 2020, the market 
capitalisation of the Group was below the book value of its equity, indicating a potential impairment. In addition, the overall decline in oil price 
and development activities around the world, as well as the ongoing economic uncertainty, have led to a decreased in the value of oil and  
gas assets.

OML 4, 38, 41 CGU
The recoverable amount of $1,332.6 million as at 31 December 2020 has been determined based on a value in use calculation using cash flow 
projections from financial budgets extracted from the Competent Person’s Report covering the economic limit of the assets. The projected 
cash flows have been updated to reflect the decrease in global oil price and production forecasts derived from proved plus probable reserves 
and associated future development costs extracted from the Competent Person’s Report for the oil and gas industry as at December 2020. 
The cash flow was estimated using three scenarios (base case, worst case and upturn).

The pre-tax discount rate applied was 15%. As the recoverable amount ($1,332.6 million) was higher than the carrying amount ($871.3 million), 
no impairment loss was recorded. There is a significant headroom between the recoverable amount and carrying amount. A rise in the 
discount rate to 17.5% would result in a recoverable amount of $1,241.2 million which would still not result in an impairment loss.

205

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202017.  Property, plant and equipment continued

17.1  Oil and gas properties continued
OML 53 CGU
The recoverable amount of $532.8 million as at 31 December 2020 has been determined based on a value in use calculation using cash flow 
projections from financial budgets extracted from the Competent Person’s Report covering the economic limit of the assets. The projected 
cash flows have been updated to reflect the decrease in global oil price and production forecasts derived from proved plus probable reserves 
and associated future development costs extracted from the Competent Person’s Report for the oil and gas industry as at December 2020. 
The cash flow was estimated using three scenarios (base case, worst case and upturn).

The pre-tax discount rate applied was 15%. As the recoverable amount ($532.8 million) was higher than the carrying amount ($330.8 million), 
no impairment loss was recorded. There is a significant headroom between the recoverable amount and carrying amount. A rise in the 
discount rate to 17.5% would result in a recoverable amount of $475 million which would still not result in an impairment loss.

OML 56 CGU
The recoverable amount of $92.1 million as at 31 December 2020 has been determined based on a value in use calculation using cash flow 
projections from financial budgets extracted from the Competent Person’s Report covering the economic limit of the assets. The projected 
cash flows have been updated to reflect the decrease in global oil price and production forecasts derived from proved plus probable reserves 
and associated future development costs extracted from the Competent Person’s Report for the oil and gas industry as at December 2020. 
The cash flow was estimated using three scenarios (base case, worst case and upturn).

The pre-tax discount rate applied was 15%. As the recoverable amount ($92.1 million) was higher than the carrying amount ($76.1 million), no 
impairment loss was recorded. There is a significant headroom between the recoverable amount and carrying amount. A rise in the discount 
rate to 17.5% would result in a recoverable amount of $82.4 million which would still not result in an impairment loss.

Key assumptions used in value in use calculations and sensitivity to changes in assumptions 
Management approach to valuing the assumptions used in the value in use calculations were based on both experience, recent sales and 
external data sources. The most sensitive assumptions are shown below:

Discount rates 
Discount rates represent the current market assessment of the risks specific to each CGU, taking into consideration the time value of money. 
The discount rate calculation is based on the specific circumstances of the Group and its operating segments and is derived from its weighted 
average cost of capital (WACC). The WACC takes into account both debt and equity. The cost of equity is derived from the expected return on 
investment by the Group’s investors. The cost of debt is based on the interest-bearing borrowings the Group is obliged to service. 

Oil price 
Oil prices used were indexed to the Brent crude forward curve. The prices when compared to external market prices are deemed  
to be reasonable.

Years

Oil price ($)

Years

Oil price ($)

2021

47.5

2022

52.3

2031

71.3

2023

57.6

2032

72.8

2024

60.7

2033

74.2

2025

62.3

2034

75.7

2026

63.9

2035

77.2

2027

65

2036

78.7

2028

66

2037

80.3

2029

67.6

2030

69.8

2038 till the estimated life 
span of the reserves

81.9

A further rise/(decline) in oil price by 10% would result in a recoverable amount of $1,486.6 million ($1,180.7 million) for OML 4, 38 and 41 CGU; 
$555.8 million/($511.2 million) for OML 53 CGU and $102.8 million/($81.5 million) for OML 56 CGU. This would not result in an impairment loss 
for any of the CGU. 

Projection period
The cash flows projection was based on management estimation of the performance of the well. This was independently verified. The 
projected periods were 24 years for OML 3, 38 and 41, 37 years for OML 53 and 27 years for OML 56.

Growth rate
No growth rate was used to extrapolate cash flows. The production volume was determined based on the estimated performance of the well.

17.2  Reclassification of oil and gas properties to intangible asset
There was no reclassification in the current year (2019: ₦9 billion, $29 million).

For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, the reconciliation of the oil and gas properties and intangible asset is shown below:

As at 31 Dec 2020
₦’million
–
–
–

As at 31 Dec 
2019
₦’million
35,091
–
35,091

As at 31 Dec 
2020
$’000

As at 31 Dec 
2019
$’000

–
–
–

114,339
–
114,339

Addition 
Reclassified to intangible assets

206

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202017.3  Disposal of oil and gas properties

Purchase consideration for disposal of oil and gas assets (Note 18.4)
Net book value of Production and Field Facilities 
(Note 18.1):
Cost
Depreciation

Gain on disposal of oil and gas properties

17.4  Other property, plant and equipment 

As at 31 Dec 2020
₦’million
–

As at 31 Dec 
2019
₦’million
–

–
–

28,126
(6,522)

As at 31 Dec 
2020
$’000

As at 31 Dec 
2019
$’000

–

–
–

Building
₦ million
 1,194 
 – 
 – 
 284 
 1,478 

 20 
 57 
 – 
 9 
 86 

–

91,643
(21,244)

Total
₦ million
 13,700 
 1,872 
 (44)
3,360
18,888

 9,340 
 1,936 
 (44)
 2,326 
 13,558 

Plant & 
machinery
₦ million
 1,526 
 57 
 – 
 367 
 1,950 

 1,396 
 126 
 – 
 339 
 1,861 

Motor  
vehicles
₦ million
 3,375 
 965 
 (44)
 854 
 5,150 

Office furniture  
& IT equipment
₦ million
 6,293 
 335 
 –
1,515
8,413

Leasehold 
improvements
₦ million
 1,291 
 515 
 –
 336 
 2,142 

 2,239 
 653 
 (44)
 566 
 3,414 

 4,778 
 656 
 –
1,171
6,605

 907 
 444 
 – 
 241 
 1,592 

Land
₦ million
 21 
 – 
 – 
 4 
 25 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 89 

 1,736 

 1,538 

 550 

 25 

 1,392 

 5,330 

 1,498 
 28 

 – 
 – 
 1,526 

 1,247 
 150 
 (1)
 1,396 

 2,663 
 393 

 319 
 – 
 3,375 

 2,003 
 235 
 1 
 2,239 

 4,680 
 1,280 

 332 
 1 
 6,293 

 4,424 
 354 
 – 
 4,778 

 130 

 1,136 

 1,515 

 928 
 287 

 76 
 – 
 1,291 

 795 
 113 
 (1)
 907 

 384 

Plant & 
machinery
$’000

Motor  
vehicles
$’000

Office furniture  
& IT equipment
$’000

Leasehold 
improvements
$’000

 4,972 
 159 
 – 
 5,131 

 4,549 
 350 
–
 4,899 

 10,992 
 2,682 
 (122)
 13,552 

 7,294 
 1,814 
(122)
 8,986 

 20,499 
 932 
 –
 21,431 

 15,565 
 1,819 
–
 17,384

 4,208 
 1,430 
 –
 5,638 

 2,955 
 1,235 
–
 4,190 

 – 
 21 

 – 
 – 
 21 

 –
 –
 –
 –

21

Land
$’000

 68 
 – 

 68 

 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 
 1,194 

 – 
 – 
 1,194 

 – 
 20 
 – 
 20 

 9,769 
 3,203 

 727 
1 
13,700 

 8,469 
 872 
 (1)
 9,340 

 1,174 

 4,360 

Building
$’000

 3,891 
 – 
 – 
 3,891 

 66 
 158 

 224 

Total
$’000

 44,630 
 5,203 
 (122)
49,710

 30,429 
 5,376 
(122)
35,683

 232 

 4,566 

 4,046 

 1,448 

 68 

 3,667 

 14,027 

207

Cost 

At 1 January 2020
Additions
Disposals
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Charge for the year
Disposals
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2020
NBV 
At 31 December 2020

Cost 

At 1 January 2019
Addition
Acquired in business 
combination
Exchange difference
At 31 December 2019
Depreciation
At 1 January 2019
Charge for the year
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2019
NBV 
At 31 December 2019

Cost 

At 1 January 2020
Additions
Disposals
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Charge for the year
Disposal
At 31 December 2020
NBV 
At 31 December 2020

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202017.  Property, plant and equipment continued

Cost 

At 1 January 2019
Addition
Acquired in business 
combination 
At 31 December 2019
Depreciation
At 1 January 2019
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2019
NBV 
At 31 December 2019

Plant & 
machinery
$’000

Motor  
vehicles
$’000

Office furniture  
& IT equipment
$’000

Leasehold 
improvements
$’000

 4,880 
 92 

–
 4,972 

 4,062 
 487 
 4,549 

 8,675 
 1,279 

 1,038 
 10,992 

 6,527 
 767 
 7,294 

 15,244 
 4,172 

 1,083 
 20,499 

 14,411 
 1,154 
 15,565 

 3,026 
 936 

 246 
 4,208 

 2,588 
 367 
 2,955 

 423 

 3,698 

 4,934 

 1,253 

17.5  Gain on disposal of other property, plant and equipment

Proceeds from disposal of assets
Less net book value of disposed assets

17.6  Depletion, depreciation and amortisation

Oil and gas properties (Note 17.1)
Amortisation of intangible asset (Note 20)
Charged to cost of sales
Other property, plant and equipment charged to 
 general and administrative expense (Note 17.5)
Right-of-use assets
Total depletion, depreciation and amortisation

18.  Other asset

Fair value at the beginning of the year
Receipts from crude oil lifted
Fair value loss 
Exchange differences
Fair value at the end of the year

 2020
₦ million
1
–
1

 2020
₦ million
45,344
532
45,876

1,936
1,254
49,066

 2020
₦ million
 40,190 
 (1,705)
 (3,142)
9,287
44,630

Land

–
 68 

–
68

–
–
–

68

2019
₦ million
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
27,511
441
27,952

872
908
29,732

2019
₦ million
 51,299 
 (11,106)
 – 
 (3)
 40,190 

Building
$’000

 – 
 3,891 

–
3,891 

–
 66 
 66 

Total
$’000

 31,825 
 10,438 

 2,367 
44,630 

 27,588 
 2,841 
 30,429 

3,825

 14,201 

 2020
$’000

3
–
3

 2020
$’000

125,987
1,477
127,464

5,376
3,483
136,323

 2020
$’000

 130,915 
 (4,737)
 (8,730)
 – 
117,448

2019
$’000

–
–
–

2019
$’000

89,636
1,439
91,075

2,841
2,960
96,876

2019
$’000

 167,100 
 (36,185)
 – 
 – 
 130,915 

Other assets represents the Group’s rights to receive the discharge sum of ₦63 billion, 2019: ₦65 billion ($204 million, 2019: $210 million) from 
the crude oil reserves of OML 55. The asset is measured at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL) and receipts from crude oil lifted reduce 
the value of the asset. At each reporting date, the fair value of the discharge sum is determined using the income approach in line with  
IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement (discounted cash flow). This asset is categorised within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The fair value  
is shown above. Significant change in the discount rate of 10% would result in significant higher or lower fair value.

19.  Right-of-use asset

As at 1 January
Additions during the year
Acquired in business combination
Less: depreciation for the period
As at 31 December

 2020
₦ million
4,026
1,193
–
(1,254)
3,965

2019
₦ million
4,217
87
630
(908)
4,026

 2020
$’000

13,115
803
–
(3,483)
10,435

2019
$’000

13,737
285
2,053
(2,960)
13,115

In 2018, the Group entered into a lease agreement for an office building in Lagos. The non-cancellable period of the lease is five years 
commencing on 1 January 2019 and ending on 31 December 2023. However, the Group has an option of either extending the lease period on 
terms to be mutually agreed by parties to the lease on the expiration of the current term or purchase the property.

208

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202020. 

Intangible assets

Cost

At 1 January 2020
Exchange difference
At 31 December 2020
At 1 January 2020
- Impairment
- Amortisation
Exchange difference
At 31 December 2020
NBV
At 31 December 2020

Cost

At 1 January 2019
Acquired in business combination 
At 31 December 2019
Amortisation
At 1 January 2019
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2019
NBV
At 31 December 2019

Goodwill
₦ million
 9,068 
 2,156 
 11,224 
–
 11,224
–
–
11,224

Licence
₦ million
 45,041 
 10,710 
 55,751 
517
 30,544
561
1,828
33,450

Total
₦ million
 54,109 
 12,866 
 66,975 
517
 41,768
561
1,828
44,674

Goodwill
$’000

 29,538 
–
 29,538 
–
 29,538 
 – 
 – 
 29,538 

Licence
$’000

 146,713 
–
 146,713 
1,685
 84,864 
 1,477 
 – 
 88,026 

Total
$’000

 176,251 
–
 176,251 
1,685
 114,402 
 1,477 
 – 
 117,564 

 – 

22,301

22,301

 – 

 58,687 

 58,687 

 – 
 9,068 
 9,068 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 9,070 
 35,971 
 45,041 

 76 
 441 
 517 

 9,070 
 45,039 
 54,109 

 76 
 441 
 517 

 – 
 29,538 
 29,538 

 – 
 – 

 29,543 
 117,170 
 146,713 

 246 
 1,439 
 1,685 

 29,543 
 146,708 
 176,251 

 246 
 1,439 
 1,685 

 9,068 

 44,524 

 53,592 

 29,538 

 145,028 

 174,566 

Licence relates to costs paid in connection with the renewal of a right for exploration of an oil mining lease field.

The licence of ₦36 billion ($117 million) were acquired as part of business combination in 2019. ₦34 billion ($110 million) relates to the fair value 
of the identified intangible asset on business combination (see Note 5 xii for details) and ₦2 billion ($7 million) relates to licence acquisition 
cost assumed on business combination. They are recognised at their fair values at the date of acquisition and subsequently amortised on a 
straight-line based on the useful life.

During the year ended 31 December 2020, the Group performed an impairment test. The Group considers the relationship between its market 
capitalisation and its book value, among other factors, when reviewing for indicators of impairment. As at 31 December 2020, the market 
capitalisation of the Group was below the book value of its equity, indicating a potential impairment. In addition, the overall decline in oil price and 
development activities around the world, as well as the ongoing economic uncertainty, have led to a decreased in the value of oil and gas assets.

OML 40 CGU
The recoverable amount of $400.7 million as at 31 December 2020 has been determined based on a fair value less cost to dispose calculation 
using cash flow projections from financial budgets extracted from the Competent Person’s Report covering the economic limit of the assets. 
The projected cash flows have been updated to reflect the decrease in global oil price and production forecasts derived from proved plus 
probable reserves and associated future development costs extracted from the Competent Person’s Report for the oil and gas industry as  
at December 2020.

The post-tax discount rate applied was 10% resulting in an impairment loss of $97 million (including goodwill of $23.4 million allocated to the 
CGU) recorded in profit or loss. The carrying value of the CGU was $497.7 million. A rise in the discount rate to 12.5% would result in a further 
impairment loss of $45.2 million. The fair value less cost to disposal is categorised within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

OML 17 CGU
The recoverable amount of $69.9 million as at 31 December 2020 has been determined based on a fair value less cost to dispose calculation 
using cash flow projections from financial budgets extracted from the Competent Person’s Report covering the economic limit of the assets. 
The projected cash flows have been updated to reflect the decrease in global oil price and production forecasts derived from proved plus 
probable reserves and associated future development costs extracted from the Competent Person’s Report for the oil and gas industry as  
at December 2020. 

The post-tax discount rate applied was 10% resulting in an impairment loss of $20.6 million (including goodwill of $6.1 million allocated to the 
CGU) recorded in profit or loss. The carrying value of the CGU was $90.5 million. A rise in the discount rate to 12.5% would result in a further 
impairment loss of $7.74 million. The fair value less cost to disposal is categorised within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

209

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202020. 

Intangible assets continued

Key assumptions used in value in use calculations and sensitivity to changes in assumptions 
Management approach to valuing the assumptions used in the value in use calculations were based on both experience, recent sales and 
external data sources. The most sensitive assumptions are shown below:

Discount rates 
Discount rates represent the current market assessment of the risks specific to each CGU, taking into consideration the time value of money. 
The discount rate calculation is based on the specific circumstances of the Group and its operating segments and is derived from its weighted 
average cost of capital (WACC). The WACC takes into account both debt and equity. The cost of equity is derived from the expected return on 
investment by the Group’s investors. The cost of debt is based on the interest-bearing borrowings the Group is obliged to service. 

Oil price 
Oil prices used were indexed to the Brent crude forward curve. The prices when compared to external market prices are deemed  
to be reasonable.

Years

Oil price ($)

Years

Oil price ($)

2021

47.5

2022

52.3

2031

71.3

2023

57.6

2032

72.8

2024

60.7

2033

74.2

2025

62.3

2034

75.7

2026

63.9

2035

77.2

2027

65

2036

78.7

2028

66

2037

80.3

2029

67.6

2030

69.8

2038 till the estimated life 
span of the reserves

81.9

A further decline in oil price by 10% would result in a further impairment loss of $77.4 million for OML 40 CGU and $13.4 million for OML 17 
CGU. A rise of 10% in oil price would reduce the impairment loss recognised by $77.4 million for OML 40 CGU and $13.4 million for OML 17 CGU.

Projection period
The cash flows projection was based on management estimation of the performance of the well. This was independently verified. The 
projected period were 13 years for OML 40 and 14 years for OML 17.

Growth rate
No growth rate was used to extrapolate cash flows. The production volume was determined based on the estimated performance of the well.

21.  Prepayments

Non-current

Rent
Advances to suppliers

Current

Prepayment for service charge
Rent 
Crude oil hedge
Other prepayments

 2020
₦ million
–
 23,463 
 23,463 

–
364
–
1,021
1,385
24,848

2019
₦ million
381
 18,928 
 19,309 

 320 
 – 
 838 
 807 
 1,965 
21,274

 2020
$’000

–
61,744
61,744

–
957
–
2,687
3,644
65,388

2019
$’000

1,238
 61,654 
 62,892 

 1,040 
–
 2,730 
 2,627 
 6,397 
69,289

21.1  Rent
Rent relate to short-term leases of residential buildings, car parks and office buildings with contractual lease term of less than or equal to 
12 months. At the end of the reporting period, rental expense of ₦185 million ($516 thousand) (2019: ₦427 million ($1.4 million)) was recognised 
within general and administrative expenses for these leases. The Group’s future cash outflows from short-term lease commitments at the 
end of the reporting period are ₦416 million, $1.1 million (2019: ₦14.8 billion ($48 million)).

21.2  Advances to suppliers
Advances to suppliers relate to a milestone payment made to finance the construction of the Amukpe Escravos Pipeline Project and other 
related facilities. At the end of the reporting period, the total prepaid amount was ₦23.4 billion ($61.7 million), 2019: ₦18.9 billion ($61.6 million). 

21.3  Other prepayments
Included in other prepayments are prepaid service charge expenses for office buildings, health insurance, software licence maintenance, 
motor insurance premium and crude oil handling fees. 

210

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202022. 

Interest in other entities

22.1  Material subsidiaries
The Group’s principal subsidiaries as at 31 December 2020 are set in Note 1. Unless otherwise stated, their share capital consists solely of 
ordinary shares that are held directly by the Group, and the proportion of ownership interests held equals the voting rights held by the Group. 
The country of incorporation or registration is also their principal place of business. 

The Group exercised significant judgement in consolidating Elcrest. Please see Note 4.1 for details. Also, there were no significant restrictions 
on any of the entities.

22.2  Non-controlling interest (NCI)
Summarised financial information in respect of Elcrest Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited which has a material non-controlling 
interest is set out below.

The information disclosed reflects amounts presented in the financial statements of the subsidiary amended to reflect fair value adjustments 
made by the Group, and modifications for differences in accounting policy during the business combination.

Current assets
Current liabilities
Current net liabilities

Non-current asset
Non-current liabilities
Non-current net assets

Net liabilities
Accumulated NCI at 55%

22.3 

Investment accounted for using equity accounting method

Investment in joint venture (note 22.3.1)
Investment in associate (note 22.3.2)

As at 31 Dec 2020 
₦’million
28,845
 (252,364)
 (223,519)

208,264
 (4,950)
203,414

 (20,105)
 (11,058)

As at 31 Dec 2020 
$’000

 66,643 
 (664,116)
 (597,473)

 548,325 
 (13,026)
 535,299 

 (62,174)
 (34,196)

As at 31 Dec 2019 
₦’million
24,634
(194,910)
(170,276)

162,667
(5,576)
157,091

(13,185)
(7,252)

As at 31 Dec 2019 
$’000

80,242
(634,887)
(554,645)

529,861
(18,163)
511,698

(42,947)
(23,621)

As at 31 Dec 2020 
₦’million
84,639
3
84,642

As at 31 Dec 2019 
₦’million
49,445
3
49,448

As at 31 Dec 2020 
$’000

As at 31 Dec 2019 
$’000

222,730
11
222,741

161,060
11
161,071

22.3.1 Interest in joint ventures
The revised shareholders agreement between the Group and Nigerian Gas Processing and Transportation Company (NGPTC) requires both 
parties to have equal shareholding in ANOH. With the change in the ownership structure, the Group has reassessed its retained interest in 
ANOH and determined that it has joint control. The Group’s interest in ANOH is accounted for in the consolidated financial statements using 
the equity method because the Group interest in ANOH (Joint venture) is assessed to be a joint venture.

Set below is the information on the material joint venture of the Group, ANOH. The Company has share capital consisting solely of ordinary 
shares, which are held directly by the Group. The country of incorporation or registration is also its principal place of business, and the 
proportion of ownership interest is the same as the proportion of voting rights held. The Company is a private entity hence no quoted price 
is available.

As at the reporting period, the Group had no capital commitment neither had it incurred any contingent liabilities jointly with its joint 
venture partner.

Name of entity

Country of 
incorporation and 
place of business

ANOH Gas Processing 
Company Limited 

Nigeria

As at 31 Dec 2020
%

As at 31 Dec 2019
%

As at 31 Dec 2020
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 2019
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 2020
$’000

As at 30 Dec 2019
$’000

50

50

84,639

49,445

222,730

161,060

Percentage of ownership interest

Carrying amount

211

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202022. 

Interest in other entities continued

22.3.1.1  Summarised statement of financial position of ANOH

As at 31 Dec 2020 
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 2020 
$’000

As at 31 Dec 2019 
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 2019 
$’000

Current assets:
Cash and bank balances
Other current assets
Total current assets
Non-current assets
Total assets
Current liabilities:
Financial liabilities (excluding trade payables)
Other current liabilities
Total liabilities
Net assets

Reconciliation to carrying amounts:
Opening net liability
Profit for the period
Additional contribution
Dividends paid
Closing net assets

Group’s share (%)
Group’s share of net asset
Exchange difference
Remeasurement of retained interest 
Carrying amount 

 32,025 
 28,380 
 60,405 
 121,565 
 181,970 

 (3,119)
 (18,227)
 (21,346)
 160,624 

 91,951 
 601 
 45,600 
 – 
138,152

50%
 69,076 
11,268
4,295
84,639

22.3.1.2  Summarised statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income of ANOH

General and administrative expenses
Finance income
Profit before taxation
Profit for the period
Group’s share (%)
Group’s share of profit for the period
Dividends received from joint venture

22.3.1.3 

Investment in joint venture

Opening balance
Fair value of 50% retained interest 
Additional investment 
Exchange difference
Share of profit from joint venture accounted for using the equity method

22.3.1.4  Reconciliation of additional investment in joint venture

Cash paid in the current period
Amount reclassified from other receivables

212

 84,275 
 74,685 
 158,961 
 319,907 
 478,868 

 (8,209)
 (47,967)
 (56,176)
 422,856 

 299,516 
 3,340 
 120,000 
 – 
 422,856 

50%
 211,428 
–
 11,302 
 222,730 

31 Dec 2020
$’000

 516 
 2,824 
 3,340 
 3,340 
50%
 1,670 
 – 

31 Dec 2020 
$’000

 161,060 
 – 
 60,000 
–
1,670
222,730

54,404
3,445
57,849
51,472
109,321

(93)
(17,277)
(17,370)
91,951

177,213
11,220
188,433
167,661
356,094

(302)
(56,276)
(56,578)
299,516

(800)
650
92,101

(2,604)
2,120
300,000

91,951

299,516

50%
45,976
–
3,469
49,445

50%
149,758
–
11,302
161,060

31 Dec 2019
₦’million
(25)
675
650
650
50%
325
 – 

31 Dec 2019 
₦’million
–
3,069
46,051
–
325
49,445

31 Dec 2019
$’000

(82)
2,202
2,120
2,120
50%
1,060
 – 

31 Dec 2019 
$’000

–
10,000
150,000
–
1,060
161,060

31 Dec 2020
₦’million
 186 
 1,016 
 1,202 
 1,202 
50%
 601 
 – 

31 Dec 2020 
₦’million
 49,445 
 – 
21,595
12,998
 601 
84,639

31 Dec 2020 
₦’million
21,595
 – 
21,595

31 Dec 2020
$’000

 60,000 
 – 
 60,000 

31 Dec 2019 
₦’million
31,627
14,424
46,051

31 Dec 2019 
$’000

103,050
46,950
150,000

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202022.3.2 Investment in associate

Investment in Elandale

As at  
31 Dec 2020 
₦’million
3

As at  
31 Dec 2019 
₦’million
3

As at  
31 Dec 2020 
$’000

As at  
31 Dec 2019 
$’000

11

11

Elandale Nigeria Limited is an associate acquired on the business combination. Elandale was incorporated in Nigeria on 17 January 2019. 
Elandale is an unquoted investment and valued based on fixed asset investment. The Group indirectly owns 40% ownership interest and 
voting rights in Elandale. The associate is deemed to be immaterial, as a result, financial information is not provided.

23. 

Inventories

Tubulars, casings and wellheads 

 2020
₦ million
28,337

2019
₦ million
25,944

 2020
$’000

74,570

2019
$’000

84,508

Inventory represents the value of tubulars, casings and wellheads. The inventory is carried at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 
Inventory charged to profit or loss and included in cost of sales during the year is ₦3.6 billion ($9.4 million), 2019: (₦1.3 billion ($4.1 million)). 
There was no write down or reversal of previously recognised write down of inventory for the year ended 31 December 2020 (2019: nil).

24.  Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables (Note 24.1)
Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables (Note 24.2)
National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) receivables 
(Note 24.3) 
Underlift
Advances to suppliers
Receivables from ANOH
Other receivables (Note 24.4)

 2020
₦ million
 20,662 
40,681

 11,353 
7,827
10,280
 4,926 
1,045
96,774

2019
₦ million
 37,465 
 68,264 

 354 
3,445
 9,015 
 3,945 
 26,948 
 149,436 

 2020
$’000

 54,375 
107,053

29,876
20,600
27,053
12,963
2,751
254,671

2019
$’000

 122,033 
 222,357 

 1,152 
11,224
 29,368 
 12,847 
 87,781 
 486,762 

24.1  Trade receivables
Included in trade receivables is an amount due from Geregu Power ($22.9 million, ₦8.6 billion), Sapele Power ($7 million, ₦2.7 billion) and 
Nigerian Gas Marketing Company ($3.4 million, ₦1.3 billion) totalling $33.3 million (Dec 2019: $52 million), ₦13.6 billion (Dec 2019: ₦16 billion) 
with respect to the sale of gas. Also included in trade receivables is $0 (Dec 2019: ₦16 billion) $0 (Dec 2019: $52 million) and ₦7 billion (Dec 
2019: ₦3 billion) $19 million (Dec 2019: $9 million) due from Mecuria and Shell Western respectively for sale of crude.

Reconciliation of trade receivables

Balance as at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Exchange difference
Gross carrying amount
Less: impairment allowance
Balance as at 31 December

Reconciliation of impairment allowance trade receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January
Increase in loss allowance during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December

2020
₦’million
 37,465 
66,343
 (82,631)
29
 21,206 
 (544)
 20,662 

2020
₦’million
 651 
 544 
1,195

2019
₦’million
29,127
 263,676 
 (254,690)
3
38,116
(651)
37,465

2019
₦’million
126
525
651

2020
$’000

 122,033 
 184,330 
 (250,481)
–
 58,882 
 (1,507)
 54,375 

2020
$’000

 2,118 
 1,507 
3,625

2019
$’000

 94,875 
859,131
(829,855)
–
124,151
 (2,118)
122,033

2019
$’000

408
1,710
2,118

Increase in expected credit loss on trade receivables is due to increase in the receivable balance at the end of the reporting period.

213

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202024.  Trade and other receivables continued

24.2  NPDC receivables
The outstanding cash calls due to Seplat from its JOA partner, NPDC is ₦44 billion (Dec 2019: ₦68 billion), $107 million (Dec 2019: $222 million).

Reconciliation of NPDC receivables

Balance as at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Write-off of accrued interest
Reversal of impairment loss on accrued interest written off
Acquired on business combination
Exchange difference
Gross carrying amount
Less: impairment allowance
Balance as at 31 December

Reconciliation of impairment allowance NPDC receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January
Increase in loss allowance during the period
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible
Exchange difference
Loss allowance as at 31 December

24.3  NAPIMS receivables
Reconciliation of NAPIMS receivables

Balance as at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Exchange difference
Gross carrying amount
Less: impairment allowance
Balance as at 31 December

Reconciliation of impairment allowance NAPIMS receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January
Increase in loss allowance during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December

2020
₦’million
68,264
81,861
 (109,282)
 – 
 – 
 – 
9
40,852
 (171)
40,681

2020
₦’million
448
171
–
–
619

2020
₦’million
 354 
 19,347 
 (8,318)
26
 11,809 
 (456)
 11,353 

2020
₦’million
 23 
 456 
 479 

2019
₦’million
 (10,022)
 129,927 
 (54,880)
 (14,871)
 2,475 
16,075
8
68,712
 (448)
 68,264

2019
₦’million
2,475
12,836
(14,871)
8
448

2019
₦’million
 (2,785)
 10,611 
 (7,452)
 3 
 377 
(23)
 354 

2019
₦’million
–
 23
 23

2020
$’000

222,357
227,446
 (342,274)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
107,529
 (476)
107,053

2020
$’000

6,910
 476 
 – 
 – 
 7,386 

2020
$’000

 1,152 
54,866
 (24,874)
–
 31,144 
 (1,268)
 29,876 

2020
$’000

77
1,268  
1,345  

2019
$’000

(32,643)
423,337
 (178,884)
 (48,439)
 8,086 
52,360
–
223,817
(1,460)
 222,357 

2019
$’000

8,086
47,263
(48,439)
–
6,910

2019
$’000

(9,073)
34,597
 (24,295)
–
1,229
(77)
 1,152

2019
$’000

–
 77
77

Increase in expected credit loss on NAPIMS receivables is due to increase in the receivable balance at the end of the reporting period.

24.4  Other receivables
Other receivables are amounts outside the usual operating activities of the Group. Included in other receivables is an escrow deposit of 
₦11 billion ($40 million) made for a potential investment. The funds were placed in an escrow on 8 January 2019 pursuant to an agreement 
reached with the vendor on the final terms of the transaction. During the reporting period, the fund has been returned.

Reconciliation of other receivables

Balance as at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Exchange difference
Gross carrying amount
Less: impairment allowance
Balance as at 31 December

214

2020
₦’million
 26,948 
 12,494 
 (29,382)
533
10,593
 (9,548)
 1,045 

2019
₦’million
9,600
 176,910 
 (153,815)
 8 
 32,703 
(5,755)
 26,948 

2020
$’000

 87,781 
 34,715 
 (93,216)
 – 
29,280
 (26,529)
 2,751 

2019
$’000

 31,272 
 576,998 
 (501,699)
 – 
 106,571
 (18,790)
 87,781

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Reconciliation of impairment allowance on other receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January
Increase in loss allowance during the period
Loss allowance as at 31 December

25.  Contract assets

Revenue on gas sales (Note 25.1)

2020
₦’million
 5,755 
 9,548 
 15,303 

2019
₦’million
4,215
1,540
5,755

2020
$’000

 18,790 
 26,529 
 45,319 

2019
$’000

13,770
5,020
18,790

2020
₦’million
2,343

2019
₦’million
 6,527 

2020
$’000

6,167

2019
$’000

 21,259 

A contract asset is an entity’s right to consideration in exchange for goods or services that the entity has transferred to a customer. The Group 
has recognised an asset in relation to a contract with Geregu Power, Sapele Power and NGMC for the delivery of gas supplies which the three 
companies have received but which has not been invoiced as at the end of the reporting period. 

The terms of payments relating to the contract are between 30- 45 days from the invoice date. However, invoices are raised after delivery 
between 14-21 days when the receivable amount has been established and the right to the receivables crystallises. The right to the unbilled 
receivables is recognised as a contract asset. At the point where the final billing certificate is obtained from Geregu Power, Sapele Power and 
NGMC authorising the quantities, this will be reclassified from contract assets to trade receivables.

25.1  Reconciliation of contract assets
The movement in the Group’s contract assets is as detailed below:

Balance as at 1 January
Addition during the year
Receipts for the year
Price adjustments
Exchange difference
Balance as at 31 December

2020
₦’million
 6,527 
 29,200 
 (32,895)
 (13)
 (476)
 2,343 

2019
₦’million
 4,327 
 49,092 
 (46,893)
–
 1 
 6,527 

2020
$’000

 21,259 
 91,115 
 (106,161)
 (46)
 – 
 6,167 

2019
$’000

 14,096 
 159,956 
 (152,793)
–
 – 
 21,259 

There were no impairment allowances recognised on contract assets as it was immaterial (2019: Nil).

26.  Derivative financial instruments

The Group uses its derivatives for economic hedging purposes and not as speculative investments. However, where derivatives do not meet 
the hedge accounting criteria, they are accounted for at fair value through profit or loss. They are presented as current assets to the extent 
they are expected to be settled within 12 months after the reporting period. 

The fair value of the derivative financial instrument as at 31 December 2020 is as a result of a fair value gain on crude oil hedges. The fair value 
has been determined using a proprietary pricing model which generates results from inputs. The market inputs to the model are derived from 
observable sources. Other inputs are unobservable but are estimated based on the market inputs or by using other pricing models.

Crude oil options
Currency forwards

2020
₦’million
(626)
–
(626)

2019
₦’million
308 
149
 457 

2020
$’000

(1,648)
–
(1,648)

2019
$’000

1,002 
484
 1,486 

In 2020, the Group commenced a crude oil hedge of ₦12,903 ($34/bbl) 2019: ₦13,815 ($45/bbl) for 5 million barrels (2019: 3 million barrels at a 
cost of ₦2.9 billion ($7.65 million) 2019: ₦0.8 billion ($2.7 million). 

215

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202027.  Cash and bank balances

Cash and bank balances in the statement of financial position comprise of cash at bank and on hand, short-term deposits with a maturity of 
three months or less and restricted cash balances.

Cash on hand
Short-term fixed deposits
Cash at bank
Gross cash and cash equivalent
Loss allowance
Net cash and cash equivalents per cash flow statement
Restricted cash
Cash and bank balance

2020
₦’million
2,620
160
82,867
85,647
 (93)
85,554
12,761
98,315

2019
₦’million
3
29,741
70,463
100,207
 (23)
100,184
2,056
 102,240

2020
$’000

6,896
422
218,065
225,383
 (246)
225,137
33,581
258,718

2019
$’000

9
96,878
229,522
326,409
(79)
326,330
6,698
333,028

Included in restricted cash, is a balance of $12.8 million (₦4.8 billion) set aside in the Stamping Reserve account for the revolving credit facility 
(RCF). The amount is to be used for the settlement of all fees and costs payable for the purposes of stamping and registering the Security 
Documents at the stamp duties office and at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The amounts are restricted for a period of three (3) 
years, which is the contractual period of the RCF. These amounts are subject to legal restrictions and are therefore not available for general 
use by the Group. These amounts have therefore been excluded from cash and bank balances for the purposes of cash flow.

An additional $20.8 million, ₦7.9 billion, of funds deposited in Access bank Plc bank accounts in the ordinary course of business are being 
unilaterally restricted by Access bank Plc in connection with the court case between Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc and Access 
bank Plc.

27.1  Reconciliation of impairment allowance on cash and bank balance

Loss allowance as at 1 January
Increase/(decrease) in loss allowance during the period
Exchange difference
Loss allowance as at 31 December

28.  Share capital

28.1  Authorised and issued share capital

Authorised ordinary share capital
1,000,000,000 ordinary shares denominated in  
Naira of 50 kobo per share
Issued and fully paid
581,840,856 (2019: 575,321,598) issued shares 
denominated in Naira of 50 kobo per share

2020
₦’million
23
60
10
93

2019
₦’million
36
(13)
–
23

2020
$’000

79
167
–
246

2019
$’000

118
(39)
–
79

2020
₦’million

2019
₦’million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

500

293

500

289

3,335

3,335

1,856

1,845

Fully paid ordinary shares carry one vote per share and the right to dividends. There were no restrictions on the Group’s share capital.

28.2  Movement in share capital and other reserves

Number of 
shares

 575,321,598 
–
6,519,258
581,840,856

Number of
 shares

 575,321,598 
–
6,519,258
581,840,856

Issued share 
capital
₦’million
 289 
–
 4 
 293 

Share premium
₦’million
 84,045 
–
2,872
 86,917 

Share-based 
payment reserve
₦’million
 8,194 
1,856
 (2,876)
7,174

Issued share 
capital
$’000

Share premium
$’000

Share-based 
payment reserve
$’000

 1,845 
–
 10 
 1,855 

 503,742 
–
 7,981 
 511,723 

 30,426 
5,157
 (7,991)
27,592

Total
₦’million
 92,528 
1,856
 – 
 94,384 

Total
$’000

 536,013 
5,157
 – 
541,170

Opening balance as at 1 January 2020
Share-based payments
Vested shares
Closing balance as at 31 December 2020

Opening balance as at 1 January 2020
Share-based payments
Vested shares
Closing balance as at 31 December 2020

216

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
28.3  Share premium 

Share premium

2020
₦ million
86,917

2019
₦ million
84,045

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

511,723

503,742

Section 120.2 of Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAP C20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 requires that where a Company issues 
shares at premium (i.e. above the par value), the value of the premium should be transferred to share premium. 

During the year, an additional 6,519,258 shares vested with a fair value of $7.99 million. The excess of $7.98 million above the nominal value of 
ordinary shares have been recognised in share premium.

28.4  Employee share-based payment scheme
As at 31 December 2020, the Group had awarded 60,487,999 shares (2019: 48,400,563 shares) to certain employees and senior executives in 
line with its share-based incentive scheme. Included in the share-based incentive schemes are two additional schemes (2019 Deferred Bonus 
and 2020 LTIP Scheme) awarded during the reporting period. During the reporting period, 4,700,028 shares had vested out of which 381,117 
shares were forfeited in relation to participants whose employment was terminated during the vesting period. Also, the reserves growth 
underpins (non-market performance condition) which was partially achieved (at 81.4% vesting) resulted in a further reduction in the number 
of shares vested by 1,379,283. The total number of shares forfeited during the period amount to 1,760,400. The number of shares that 
eventually vested during the year after the forfeiture and conditions above is 6,519,258 (Dec 2019: 6,824,573 shares were vested).

Description of the awards valued

i. 
The Group has made a number of share-based awards under incentive plans since its IPO in 2014: IPO-related grants to Executive and 
Non-Executive Directors, 2018/2019 deferred bonus awards and 2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) awards. Shares under these incentive 
plans were awarded at the IPO in April 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 conditional on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) approving the 
share delivery mechanism proposed by the Group. A number of these awards have fully vested.

Seplat Deferred Bonus Award 
25% of each Executive Director’s 2019 bonus (paid in 2020) has been deferred into shares and released on 1 June 2017, 1 June 2018, 20 April 
2019 respectively subject to continued employment over the vesting period. The 2018 bonus is expected to be released on 31 December 2020. 
No performance criteria are attached to this award. As a result, the fair value of these awards is calculated using a Black Scholes model.

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) awards 
Under the LTIP Plan, shares are granted to management staff of the organisation at the end of every year. The shares were granted to the 
employees at no cost. The shares vest (after three years) based on the following conditions:

• 25% vesting for median relative TSR performance rising to 100% for upper quartile performance on a straight-line basis.

• Relative TSR vesting reduced by 75% if 60% and below of operational and technical bonus metrics are achieved, with 35% reduction if 70% 

of operational and technical bonus metrics are achieved and no reduction for 80% or above achievement.

• The Group outperforms the median TSR performance level with the LTIP exploration and production comparator group.

The LTIP awards have been approved by the NSE.

Share-based payment expenses 

ii. 
The expense recognised for employee services received during the year is shown in the following table:

Expense arising from equity-settled share-based payment transactions

2020
₦’million
1,856

2019
₦’million
2,864

2020
$’000

5,157

2019
$’000

 9,223

217

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202028.  Share capital continued

There were no cancellations to the awards in 2020. The share awards granted to Executive Directors and confirmed employees are 
summarised below:

Scheme

Deemed grant date

Start of service period

End of service period

Vesting status

21 April 2016

4 November 2015
Global Bonus Offer
4 November 2015
Non-Executive Shares
2014 Deferred Bonus
14 December 2015
2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan 14 December 2015
2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan 31 December 2015
2015 Deferred Bonus
2016 Long-Term Incentive Plan 22 December 2016
2016 Deferred Bonus
24 November 2017
2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan 24 November 2017
2017 Deferred Bonus
29 December 2017
2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan 2 May 2018
2018 Deferred Bonus
2 May 2019
2019 Long-Term Incentive Plan 2 May 2019
2019 Deferred Bonus
30 Apr 2020
2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan 30 Apr 2020
2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan 2 Dec 2020

9 April 2014
9 April 2014
14 December 2015
14 December 2015
14 December 2015
21 April 2016
22 December 2016
24 November 2017
24 November 2017
29 December 2017
2 May 2018
2 May 2019
2 May 2019
30 Apr 2020
30 Apr 2020
2 Dec 2020

9 April 2015
9 April 2015
21 April 2017
9 April 2017
21 April 2018
20 April 2018
21 December 2019
20 April 2019
20 April 2020
31 December 2019
1 May 2021
31 December 2020
2 May 2022
31 Dec 2021
1 May 2023
2 Dec 2023

Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Partially
Fully
Partially
Partially
Partially
Partially

Number of 
awards

6,472,138
793,650
212,701
2,173,259
5,287,354
247,610
10,294,300
278,191
7,938,589
193,830
6,519,022
 341,069 
 7,648,850 
214,499
10,762,880
1,110,057
60,487,999

Determination of share awards outstanding

iii. 
Share awards used in the calculation of diluted earnings per shares are based on the outstanding shares granted as at 31 December 2020.

Share award scheme (all awards)

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

Share award scheme (all awards)

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

2020
Number

 12,386,617 
4,700,028
 (1,760,400)
 (6,519,258)
8,806,987

2020
Number

 12,386,617 
4,700,028
 (1,760,400)
 (6,519,258)
8,806,987
 – 

2020
WAEP ₦ 
474
395
–
–
843

2020
WAEP $ 

1.54
1.04
–
–
2.22
–

2019
Number

 12,350,871 
 10,802,067 
 (6,824,573)
 (3,941,748)
 12,386,617 
– 

2019
Number

 12,350,871 
 10,802,067 
 (6,824,573)
 (3,941,748)
 12,386,617 
 – 

2019
WAEP ₦
 310 
 387 
–
–
 474 
 – 

2019
WAEP $

 1.01 
 1.26 
–
–
 1.54 
 – 

The following table illustrates the number and weighted average exercise prices (WAEP) of and movements in deferred bonus scheme and 
long-term incentive plan during the year for each available scheme.

Deferred bonus scheme

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

Deferred bonus scheme

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

2020
Number

 136,091 
 291,129 
–
 (341,069)
 86,151 
 – 

2020
Number

 136,091 
 291,129 
 (341,069)
 – 
 86,151 
 – 

2020
WAEP ₦ 
572
525
–
–
236
–

2020
WAEP $

1.86
1.38
–
–
0.62
 –

2019
Number

315,603
292,509
–
 (472,021)
136,092
 – 

2019
Number

 315,603 
 292,509 

 (472,021)
 136,091 
 – 

2019
WAEP ₦
451
522
–
–
 572 
–

2019
WAEP $

1.47
1.70

–
 1.86 
 – 

The fair value of the modified options was determined using the same models and principles as described in the table below on the inputs to 
the models used for the scheme.

218

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Exercised during the year
Forfeited during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Exercised during the year
Forfeited during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

2020
Number

 12,250,525 
8,166,900
(6,178,189)
(1,760,400)
12,478,836

2020
Number

 12,250,525 
8,166,900
(6,178,189)
(1,760,400)
12,478,836

2020
WAEP ₦ 
209
390
–
–
509

2020
WAEP $

0.68
1.03
–
–
1.34

2019
Number

12,035,268
10,509,557
 (6,352,552)
 (3,941,748)
12,250,525
 – 

2019
Number

12,035,268
10,509,557
 (6,352,552)
 (3,941,748)
12,250,525
 – 

2019
WAEP ₦
361
362
–
–
 209 
 – 

2019
WAEP $

1.18
1.18
–
–
 0.68 
 – 

The shares are granted to the employees at no cost. The weighted average remaining contractual life for the share awards outstanding as at 
31 December 2020 range from 0.3 to 3 years (2019: 0.3 to 2.3 years).

The weighted average fair value of awards granted during the year range from ₦142.8 to ₦235.98 (2019: ₦362.26 to ₦521.9), $0.32 to $0.68 (2019: 
$1.18 to $1.70). 

The fair value at grant date is independently determined using the Monte Carlo model which takes into account the term of the award, the 
share price at grant date and expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield, the risk-free interest rate for the 
term of the award and the correlations and volatilities of peer group companies. 

The expected price volatility is based on the historic volatility (based on the remaining life of the options), adjusted for any expected changes 
to future volatility due to publicly available information. 

Inputs to the models

iv. 
The following table lists the inputs to the models used for the share awards outstanding in the respective plans for the year ended 31 
December 2020:

Weighted average fair values at the measurement date
Dividend yield (%)
Expected volatility (%)
Risk-free interest rate (%)
Expected life of share options
Share price at grant date ($)
Share price at grant date (₦)
Model used

29.  Capital contribution

2018
LTIP

0.00%
41%
0.83%
3.00
1.93
589.90

2019
LTIP

2019
Deferred Bonus

2020
LTIP

2020
LTIP

0.00%
35%
0.76%
3.00
1.7
521.9

0.00%
43%
0.44%
3.00
0.51
193.48
Monte Carlo Monte Carlo Black Scholes Monte Carlo

0.00%
43%
0.44%
3.00
0.38
135.38

0.00%
56%
0.63%
1.67
0.62
190.15

This represents M&P additional cash contribution to the Group. In accordance with the Shareholders’ Agreement, the amount was used by the 
Group for working capital as was required at the commencement of operations. 

Capital contribution

30.  Foreign currency translation reserve

2020
₦ million
5,932

2019
₦ million
5,932

2020
$’000

40,000

2019
$’000

40,000

Cumulative foreign exchange differences arising from translation of the Group’s results and financial position into the presentation currency 
and from the translation of foreign subsidiary is recognised in foreign currency translation reserve. 

219

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202031. 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

31.1  Net debt reconciliation
Below is the net debt reconciliation on interest-bearing loans and borrowings for 2020:

Balance as at 1 January 2020
Interest accrued
Interest capitalised
Principal repayment
Interest repayment
Proceeds from loan financing
Transfers
Exchange differences
Carrying amount as at 31 December 2020

Borrowings due 
within  
1 year
₦ million
 34,486 
 17,504 
5,449
 (35,991)
 (23,310)
 – 
29,559
 7,821 
35,518

Borrowings due 
above  
1 year
₦ million
 207,863 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 3,599 
 (29,559)
 47,977 
 229,880 

Below is the net debt reconciliation on interest-bearing loans and borrowings 2019:

Balance as at 1 January 2019
Interest accrued
Interest capitalised
Principal repayment
Interest repayment
Other financing charges
Proceeds from loan financing
Acquired on business combination
Exchange differences
Carrying amount as at 31 December 2019

Borrowings due 
within  
1 year
₦ million
 3,031 
 8,890 
 6,308 
 (3,029)
 (10,364)
 (2,696)
 19,151 
 13,187 
8
 34,486 

Borrowings due 
above  
1 year
₦ million
 133,799 
 – 
–
 (27,661)
 – 
 – 
 87,194 
 14,509 
 22 
 207,863 

Borrowings due 
within  
1 year
$’000

Borrowings due 
above  
1 year
$’000

 112,333 
48,634
15,140
 (100,000)
 (64,767)
 – 
82,128
 – 
93,468

 677,075 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 10,000 
 (82,128)
 – 
604,947

Borrowings due 
within  
1 year
$’000

Borrowings due 
above  
1 year
$’000

 9,872 
 28,966 
 20,554 
 (9,872)
 (33,770)
 (8,783)
 62,399 
 42,967 
 – 
 112,333 

 435,827 

 (90,128)
 – 
 – 
 284,101 
 47,275 
 – 
 677,075 

 Total 
₦ million
 242,349 
 17,504 
5,449
 (35,991)
 (23,310)
 3,599 
 – 
 55,798 
265,398

 Total 
₦ million
 136,830 
 8,890 
 6,308 
 (30,690)
 (10,364)
 (2,696)
 106,345 
 27,696 
 30 
 242,349 

 Total 
$’000

 789,408 
48,634
15,140
 (100,000)
 (64,767)
 10,000 
 – 
 – 
698,415

 Total 
$’000

 445,699 
 28,966 
 20,554 
 (100,000)
 (33,770)
(8,783)
 346,500 
 90,242 
 – 
 789,408 

Other financing charges include term loan arrangement and commitment fees, annual bank charges, technical bank fee, agency fee and 
analytical services in connection with annual service charge. These costs do not form an integral part of the effective interest rate. As a result, 
they are not included in the measurement of the interest-bearing loan.

31.2  Amortised cost of borrowings

Senior loan notes
Revolving loan facilities
Reserve based lending (RBL) facility

2020
₦’million
134,291
93,634
37,473
265,398

2019
₦’million
 107,237 
 107,416 
 27,696 
 242,349 

2020
$’000

353,396
246,406
98,613
698,415

2019
$’000

 349,278 
 349,888 
 90,242 
 789,408 

$350 million Senior notes – March 2018
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings include senior notes. In March 2018 the Group issued ₦107 billion ($350 million) senior notes at a 
contractual interest rate of 9.25% with interest payable each year on 1 April and 1 October, and principal repayable as a bullet at maturity.  
The notes are scheduled to mature in June 2023. The interest accrued up at the reporting date is ₦12.5 billion ($34.7 million) using an effective 
interest rate of 10.3%. Transaction costs of ₦2.1 billion ($7 million) have been included in the amortised cost balance at the end of the 
reporting period. The amortised cost for the senior notes at the reporting period is ₦134.3 billion ($353.8 million) (December 2019: 
₦107.2 billion, $349.3 million), although the principal is $350 million.

$350 million Revolving credit facility – December 2019
The Group’s parent Company on 20 December 2019 entered into a four-year revolving loan agreement with interest payable semi-annually. 
There is a two-year moratorium on the principal which ends on 1 July 2021 but will be extended to 1 July 2022 if the Notes are not refinanced 
before then. The revolving loan has an initial contractual interest rate of 6% +LIBOR and a settlement date of 31 December 2023.

The interest rate of the facility is variable. The interest accrued at the reporting period is ₦8.4 billion, $23.4 million using an effective interest 
rate of 7.5%. The interest paid was determined using three-month LIBOR rate + 6 % on the last business day of the reporting period. The 
outstanding amount of this borrowing as the reporting period is ₦94.2 billion, $250 million.

$125 million Reserved based lending (RBL) facility – November 2018
The Group through its subsidiary Westport on 28 November 2018 entered into a five-year loan agreement with interest payable semi-annually. 
The RBL facility has an initial contractual interest rate of 8% +LIBOR as at half year (8.30%) and a final maturity date of 29 November 2023. 
The RBL is secured against the Group’s producing assets in OML 40 via the Group’s shares in Elcrest, and by way of a debenture which creates 
a charge over certain assets of the Group, including its bank accounts. 

220

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The available facility is capped at the lower of the available commitments and the borrowing base. The current borrowing base is more than 
$100 million, with the available commitments at $100 million. The commitments are scheduled to reduce to $87.5 million on 31 March 2021. 
The first reduction in the commitments occurred on 31 December 2019 in line with the commitment reduction schedule contained within the 
Facility Agreement. This resulted in the available commitments reducing from ₦45 billion ($125.0 million) to ₦40.6 billion ($112.5 million), with a 
further reduction to ₦36.1 billion ($100.0 million) as at December 2020. 

The RBL has a maturity of five years, the repayments of principal are due on a semi-annual basis so that the outstanding balance of the RBL 
will not exceed the lower of (a) the borrowing base amount and (b) the total commitments. Interest rate payable under the RBL is LIBOR plus 
8%, so long as more than 50% of the available facility is drawn.

On 4 February 2020 Westport drew down a further ₦3.6 billion ($10 million) increasing the debt utilised under the RBL from ₦32.4 billion 
($90 million) to ₦36.1 billion ($100 million). 

The interest rate of the facility is variable. The Group made a drawdown of ₦3.79 billion ($10 million) as at period end. The interest accrued at 
the reporting period is ₦3.9 billion ($11 million) using an effective interest rate of 8.3%. The interest paid was determined using six-month 
LIBOR rate + 8 % on the last business day of the reporting period. The outstanding amount of this borrowing as at the date of acquisition is 
₦37.4 billion ($98.6 million).

31.3  Outstanding principal exposures
The following is the analysis of the principal outstanding showing the lenders of the facility as at the year end:

31 December 2020

Fixed interest rate
Senior notes:
Variable interest rate
Corporate loan:
Citibank, N.A., London 
Branch
Nedbank Limited London
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
The Standard Bank of South 
Africa Limited//
RMB International 
(Mauritius) Limited
The Mauritius Commercial 
Bank Ltd
JPMorgan Chase Bank, 
N.A., London Branch
Standard Chartered Bank
Natixis 
Société Générale, London 
Branch
Zenith Bank Plc
United Bank for Africa Plc
First City Monument Bank 
Limited
First Bank of Nigeria
The Mauritius Commercial 
Bank Ltd
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc/ The 
Standard Bank of South 
Africa Limited

Interest

9.25%

6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR

6% +LIBOR

6% + LIBOR

6% + LIBOR

6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR

6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR
6% + LIBOR

6% + LIBOR
8% + LIBOR

8% + LIBOR

8% + LIBOR

Current
₦ million

Non-current
₦ million

Total
₦ million

Current
$’000

Non-current
$’000

Total
$’000

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–

–

–
–

133,000

133,000

 10,857 
 10,857 
 5,429 

 10,857 
 10,857 
 5,429 

 5,429 

 5,429 

 10,857 

 10,857 

 10,857 

 10,857 

 8,143 
 8,143 
 8,143 

 4,071 
 4,071 
 4,071 

 4,071 
 4,561 

 8,143 
 8,143 
 8,143 

 4,071 
 4,071 
 4,071 

 4,071 
 4,561 

 13,073 

 13,073 

 20,369 
266,002

 20,369 
266,002

–

–
–
–

–

–

–

–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–

–

–
–

350,000

350,000

 28,572 
 28,572 
 14,285 

 28,572 
 28,572 
 14,285 

 14,285 

 14,285 

 28,572 

 28,572 

 28,572 

 28,572 

 21,429 
 21,429 
 21,429 

 10,714 
 10,714 
 10,714 

 10,713 
 12,000 

 21,429 
 21,429 
 21,429 

 10,714 
 10,714 
 10,714 

 10,713 
 12,000 

 34,400 

 34,400 

 53,600 
700,000

 53,600 
700,000

221

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202031. 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings continued

31 December 2019

Fixed interest rate
Senior notes:
Variable interest rate
Corporate loan:
Citibank, N.A., London 
Branch
Nedbank Limited London
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
The Standard Bank of South 
Africa Limited//
RMB International 
(Mauritius) Limited
The Mauritius Commercial 
Bank Ltd
JPMorgan Chase Bank, 
N.A., London Branch
Standard Chartered Bank
Natixis 
Société Générale, London 
Branch
Zenith Bank Plc
United Bank for Africa Plc
First City Monument Bank 
Limited
Acquisition through 
business combination;
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc & 
The Mauritius Commercial 
Bank Ltd

32.  Lease liabilities

Interest

9.25

6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR

6.0% +LIBOR

6.0% +LIBOR

6.0% +LIBOR

6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR

6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR

6.0% +LIBOR

Current
₦ million

Non-current
₦ million

Total
₦ million

Current
$’000

Non-current
$’000

Total
$’000

107,450

107,450

350,000

350,000

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 

 12,280 
 12,280 
 6,140 

 12,280 
 12,280 
 6,140 

 6,140 

 6,140 

 12,280 

 12,280 

 12,280 

 12,280 

 9,210 
 9,210 
 9,210 

 4,605 
 4,605 
 4,605 

 9,210 
 9,210 
 9,210 

 4,605 
 4,605 
 4,605 

 4,605 

 4,605 

 –
 –
 –

 –

 –

 –

 –
 –
 –

 –
 –
 –

 –

 40,000 
 40,000 
 20,000 

 40,000 
 40,000 
 20,000 

 20,000 

 20,000 

 40,000 

 40,000 

 40,000 

 40,000 

 30,000 
 30,000 
 30,000 

 15,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 

 30,000 
 30,000 
 30,000 

 15,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 

 15,000 

 15,000 

8.0% +LIBOR

7,675
7,675

19,955
234,855

27,630
242,530

25,000
25,000

65,000
765,000

90,000
790,000

As at 1 January 
Additions during the year
Payments during the year
Acquired in business combination
Interest on lease liabilities
As at 31 December 

 2020
₦ million
 2,829 
1,193
 (1,858)
 – 
 106 
 2,270 

2019
₦ million
 2,140 
 64 
–
 461 
 164 
 2,829 

 2020
$’000

 9,210 
803
 (4,334)
 – 
 295 
 5,974 

2019
$’000

 6,972 
 204 
–
 1,500 
 534 
 9,210 

In 2018, the Group entered into a lease agreement for an office building in Lagos. The non-cancellable period of the lease is five years 
commencing on 1 January 2019 and ending on 31 December 2023. However, the Group has an option of either extending the lease period on 
terms to be mutually agreed by parties to the lease on the expiration of the current term or purchase the property.

The Group’s lease liability as at 31 December 2020 is split into current and non-current portions as follows:

Current
Non-current

The following amount are the amount recognised in profit or loss:

Depreciation expense of right-of-use assets
Interest expense on lease liabilities

 2020
₦ million
679
1,591
2,270

 2020
₦ million
1,254
106
1,360

2019
₦ million
212
2,617
2,829

2019
₦ million
908
164
1,072

 2020
$’000

1,787
4,187
 5,974 

 2020
$’000

3,483
295
3,778

2019
$’000

692
8,518
 9,210 

2019
$’000

2960
534
 3,494

222

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The following are the impact of the lease on cash flow:

Depreciation expense of right-of-use assets
Interest expense on lease liabilities
Net cash flows from operating activities
Lease payments
Net cash flows from financing activities

 2020
₦ million
1,254
106
1,360
(1,858)
(1,858)

2019
₦ million
908
164
1,072
–
–

 2020
$’000

3,483
295
3,778
(4,334)
(4,334)

2019
$’000

2,960
534
3,494
–
–

The Group’s lease payments for drilling rigs are classified as variable lease payments. The variability arises because the lease payments are 
linked to the use of the underlying assets. These variable lease payments are therefore excluded from the measurement of the lease 
liabilities. At the end of the reporting period, there was no rental expense recognised within cost of sales for these leases. The expected future 
cash outflows arising from variable lease payments is estimated at ₦1.2 billion, $3.1 million (2019: ₦14.8 billion, $48 million).

The following tables summarise the impact that exercising the purchase option would have had on the profit before tax and net assets  
of the Group:

Depreciation 
Interest payment

Depreciation 
Interest payment

33.  Contingent liability 

At 1 January 2019
Acquired in business combination 
At 31 December 2019

At 1 January 2020
Exchange difference
Provision no longer required (Note 10)
At 31 December 2020

Effect on profit before tax

Effect on profit before tax

 2020
₦ million
651
(844)
(193)

2020
$’000

1,810
(2,346)
(536)

 2019
₦ million
556
(725)
(169)

2019
$’000

1,810
(2,363)
(553)

Effect on net assets

Effect on net assets

 2020
₦ million
11,188
(11,885)
(697)

2020
$’000

29,441
(31,275)
(1,834)

 2019
₦ million
9,594
(10,322)
(728)

₦ million
–
 2,215 
 2,215 

 2,215 
382
(2,597)
–

2019
$’000

31,251
(33,621)
(2,370)

$’000

–
 7,217 
 7,217 

 7,217 
–
(7,217)
–

A contingent liability of $7.2 million was recognised on the acquisition of Eland Group for a pending investigation by the European Commission 
into the UK’s Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) tax regime.  Notwithstanding the ongoing appeal in the European Courts, the UK tax authority, 
HMRC, were obligated to review impacted companies and collect taxes in the UK. 

In February 2021, Eland Oil & Gas Limited (Eland) received written notification from HMRC that they had formed a view that Eland was not a 
beneficiary of State Aid in the period, 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2018.  For that reason, it is extremely unlikely that any cash outflow will 
result from the State Aid investigation, irrespective of the outcome of the ongoing appeal between the UK government and the European 
Commission regarding UK CFC rules in the period.

There is therefore no longer any need to recognise a contingent liability in respect of the State Aid investigation (2019: $45.4 million was 
estimated as the maximum exposure in the event of an adverse decision related to the investigation).

223

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202034.   Provision for decommissioning obligation

At 1 January 2020
Unwinding of discount due to passage of time
Change in estimate
Exchange difference
At 31 December 2020

At 1 January 2019
Unwinding of discount due to passage of time
Changes in estimate
Acquired in business combination
At 31 December 2019

₦ million
 45,411 
 1,046 
4,244
11,094
61,795

 43,514 
 1,240 
 (5,142)
 5,799 
45,411

$’000

 147,921 
 2,905 
11,793
–
162,619

 141,737 
 4,039 
 (16,745)
 18,890 
147,921

The Group makes full provision for the future cost of decommissioning oil production facilities on a discounted basis at the commencement of 
production. This relates to the removal of assets as well as their associated restoration costs. This obligation is recorded in the period in 
which the liability meets the definition of a “probable future sacrifice of economic benefits arising from a present obligation”, and in which it 
can be reasonably measured.

The provision represents the present value of estimated future expenditure to be incurred as highlighted in the table below which is the 
current expectation as to when the producing facilities are expected to cease operations. Management engaged a third party to assist with an 
estimate of the expenditure to be incurred. These provisions were based on estimations carried out by Netherland, Sewell and Associates for 
OML 40 and Ubima in 2019. The estimate for 2020 were done by Ryder Scott for all the OMLs based on current assumptions of the economic 
environment which management believes to be a reasonable basis upon which to estimate the future liability. These estimates are reviewed 
regularly to consider any material changes to the assumptions. However, actual decommissioning costs will ultimately depend upon future 
market prices for necessary decommissioning works required that will reflect market conditions at the relevant time. 

Furthermore, the timing of decommissioning is likely to depend on when the fields cease to produce at economically viable rates.

Seplat Petroleum Development Company:
OML 4
OML 38
OML 41
Seplat West Limited:
OML 4
OML 38
OML 41
Newton Energy Limited (OPL 283)
Seplat East Onshore Ltd (OML 53)
Elcrest (OML 40)
Ubima (OML 17)

35.  Employee benefit obligation

Current estimated life span 
of reserves

2020
In years

2019
In years

–
–
–

2027 – 2037
2027 – 2034
2037

2027 – 2037
2027 – 2034
2037
2037 – 2044 
2028 – 2054
2031
2032

–
–
–
2037 – 2044 
2028 – 2054
2033
–

35.1  Defined contribution plan
The Group contributes to a funded defined contribution retirement benefit scheme for its employees in compliance with the provisions of  
the Pension Reform Act 2014. A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the Group pays fixed contributions to an approved 
Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) – a separate entity. The assets of the scheme are managed by various Pension Fund Administrators 
patronised by employees of the Group. The Group’s contributions are charged to the profit and loss account in the year to which they relate. 

Investment management strategy and policy

35.2  Defined benefit plan
i. 
The Group operates a funded defined benefit pension plan in Nigeria under the regulation of National Pension Commission. The plan provides 
benefits to all the employees (excluding Directors holding salaried employment in the Group) who have been employed by the Group for a 
continuous period of five years and whose employment have been confirmed. The employee’s entitlement to the accrued benefits occurs on 
retirement from the Group. The level of benefits provided on severance depends on members’ length of service and salary at retirement age.

The overall investment philosophy of the defined benefit plan fund is to ensure safety, optimum returns and liquidity in line with the regulation 
and guidelines of the Pension Reform Act 2014 or guidelines that may be issued from time to time by National Pension Commission.

Plan assets are held in trust. Responsibility for supervision of the plan assets (including investment decisions and contributions schedules) 
lies jointly with the trustees and the pension fund managers. The trustees are made up of members of the Group’s senior management 
appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. The Group does not have an investment strategy of matching match plan assets with the defined 
obligations as they fall due, however, the Group has an obligation to settle shortfalls in the plan asset upon annual actuarial valuations.

224

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The provision for the defined benefit plan is based on an independent actuarial valuation performed by Logic Professional Services (LPS) 
using the projected unit credit method. The provision is adjusted for inflation, interest rate risks, changes in salary and changes in the life 
expectancy for the beneficiaries.

The amount payable as at 31 December 2020 was ₦4 billion ($10.7 million), 2019: ₦3 billion ($9.8 million).

The following tables summarise the components of net defined benefit expense recognised in the statement of profit or loss and other 
comprehensive income and in the statement of financial position for the respective plans:

ii. 

Liability recognised in the financial position

Defined benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

iii. 

Amount recognised in profit or loss

Current service cost
Interest cost on defined benefit obligation

Return on plan assets

2020
₦ million
5,304
 (1,241)
4,063

2020
₦ million
687
498
1,185
(124)
1,061

2019
₦ million
3,595
(583)
3,012

2019
₦ million
 602 
 364 
 966 
 (129) 
 837 

2020
$’000

13,958
 (3,267)
10,691

2020
$’000

1,909
1,383
3,292
(346)
2,946

2019
$’000

11,707
(1,899)
9,808

2019
$’000

 1,961 
 1,186 
 3,147 
 (420) 
 2,727 

The Group recognises a part of its defined benefit expenses in profit or loss and recharges the other part to its joint operations partners, this 
is recognised as a receivable from the partners. Below is the breakdown:

Charged to profit or loss
Charged to receivables
Balance as at 31 December

iv. 

Remeasurement (gains)/losses in other comprehensive income

Remeasurement losses/(gains) due to changes in financial and  
demographic assumptions
Remeasurement (gains)/losses due to experience adjustment
Remeasurement gain on plan assets

Deferred tax credit/(expense) on remeasurement losses

2020
₦ million
409
652
1,061

2019
₦ million
 343 
 494 
 837

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

 36 
 (74)
 (27) 
(65)
55
(10)

(508) 
 111
 (51) 
(448)
 381
 67 

2020
$’000

1,135
1,811
2,946

2020
$’000

101 
(206)
(75)
(180)
153
(27)

2019
$’000

 1,117
 1,610 
2,727 

2019
$’000

(1,655) 
 362
 (166) 
(1,459)
 1,240
 219 

The Group recognises a part of the remeasurement losses in other comprehensive income and recharges the other part to its joint operations 
partners. Below is the breakdown:

Recharged to receivables
Charged/(credited) to other comprehensive income
Remeasurement (losses)/gain due to changes in financial  
and demographic assumptions

2020
₦ million
(36)
(29)

2019
₦ million
(247) 
 (201)

(65)

 (448) 

2020
$’000

(99)
(81)

(180)

2019
$’000

 (803) 
 (656)

 (1,459) 

225

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202035.  Employee benefit obligation continued

Deferred tax (expense)/credit on remeasurement (gains)/losses

35.2  Defined benefit plan continued
v. 
The Group recognises deferred tax (credit on a part of the remeasurement (gain)/losses in other comprehensive income/(loss). Below  
is the breakdown:

Charged to other comprehensive income 
Charged to receivables
Deferred tax on remeasurement losses

2020
₦ million
25
30
55

vi. 

Changes in the present value of the defined benefit obligation are as follows:

Defined benefit obligation as at 1 January
Current service cost
Interest cost on benefit obligation
Remeasurement losses due to changes in financial and  
demographic assumptions
Remeasurement gains due to experience adjustment
Benefits paid by the employer
Benefits from the fund
Exchange differences
Defined benefit obligation at 31 December

vii. 

The changes in the fair value of plan assets is as follows:

Balance as at 1 January
Employer contributions
Return on plan assets
Benefits paid from fund
Remeasurement loss on plan assets
Exchange differences
Balance as at 31 December 

The net liability disclosed above relates to funded plans as follows:

Present value of funded obligations
Fair value of plan assets
Deficit of funded plans

2020
₦ million
 3,595 
 687 
 498 

 36 
 (74)
(77)
(260)
899
5,304

2020
₦ million
(583)
(601)
(124)
260
(27)
(166)
(1,241)

2020
₦ million
5,304
(1,241)
4,063

2019
₦ million
 171
210
381

2019
₦ million
 2,324
 602
 364

508
(111)
(86)
–
 (6)
 3,595

2019
₦ million
 (505)
 – 
 (129)
 – 
 51 
 – 
 (583)

2019
₦ million
 3,595 
 (583)
 3,012 

2020
$’000

69
84
153

2020
$’000

11,707
1,909
 1,383 

 101 
 (206)
(213)
 (723)
–
13,958

2020
$’000

(1,899)
(1,670)
(346)
723
(75)
–
(3,267)

2020
$’000

13,958
(3,267)
10,691

2019
$’000

 558
 682
 1,240

2019
$’000

 7,568
 1,961
1,186

1,655
(362)
(280)
–
 (21)
 11,707

2019
$’000

 (1,645)
 – 
 (420)
 – 
 166 
 – 
 (1,899)

2019
$’000

 11,707 
 (1,899)
 9,808 

The fair value of the plan asset of the Group at the end of the reporting period was determined using the market values of the comprising 
assets as shown below:

Equity instrument 
Treasury bills and money market
Bonds
Cash at bank
Payables
Total plan asset as at 31 December

Money market
Equity instrument 
Treasury bills
Bonds
Cash at bank
Payables
Total plan asset as at 31 December

226

Quoted
₦ million
 19 
 637 
 564 
 – 
 – 
 1,220 

Quoted
₦ million
 –
12
50
386
–
–
448

Not quoted
₦ million
 – 
 – 
 – 
 25 
 (4)
 21 

Not quoted
₦ million
 136
–
 –
–
2
(3)
135

2020

Total
 ₦ million 
 19 
 637 
 564 
 25 
 (4)
 1,241

2019

Total
 ₦ million 
 136
12
50
386
2
(3)
583

Quoted
$’000

 50 
 1,679 
 1,486 
 – 
 – 
 3,215 

Not quoted
$’000

 – 
 – 
 – 
 66 
 (14)
 52 

Quoted
$’000

Not quoted
$’000

 –
40
 163
1,258
–
–
1,461

 442
–
 –
–
6
 (10)
438

2020

Total
$’000

 50 
 1,679 
 1,486 
 66 
 (14)
 3,267 

2019

Total
$’000

 442
40
 163
1,258
6
 (10)
1,899

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020viii.  The principal assumptions used in determining defined benefit obligations for the Group’s plans are shown below:

Discount rate
Average future pay increase
Average future rate of inflation

a. 

Mortality in service 

Sample age

25
30
35
40
45

Withdrawal from service

Age band

Less than or equal to 30
31 – 39
40 – 44
45 – 55
56 – 60

2020
%

 8.00 
 8.00 
 12.00 

2019
%

14.00
12.00
12.00

Number of deaths in year out of 
10,000 lives

2020

2019

3
36
64
97
90

Rates

2020

1.0%
1.5%
1.5%
1.0%
0.0%

7
7
9
14
26

2019

1.0%
1.5%
1.5%
1.0%
0.0%

A quantitative sensitivity analysis for significant assumption is as shown below:

Assumptions

Sensitivity Level: Impact 
on the net defined benefit 
obligation
31 December 2020
31 December 2019

Assumptions

Sensitivity Level: Impact 
on the net defined benefit 
obligation
31 December 2020
31 December 2019

Discount rate

Salary increases

Mortality

Base

1% increase
₦ million

1% decrease
₦ million

1% increase
₦ million

1% decrease
₦ million

1% increase
₦ million

1% decrease
₦ million

5,304
 3,595 

(578)
 (225)

682
 262 

702
 280 

(605)
 (243)

(249)
 3 

 223
 (3)

Discount rate

Salary increases

Mortality

Base

1% increase
$’000

1% decrease
$’000

1% increase
$’000

1% decrease
$’000

1% increase
$’000

1% decrease
$’000

13,958
11,707

(219)
(733)

259
854

267
 912 

(230)
 (792)

(95)
 10 

85
 (10)

The sensitivity analyses above have been determined based on a method that extrapolates the impact on net defined benefit obligation as a 
result of reasonable changes in key assumptions occurring at the end of the reporting period. The methods and assumptions used in 
preparing the sensitivity analysis did not change compared to prior period.

The sensitivity analyses are based on a change in an assumption while holding all other assumptions constant. In practice, this is unlikely to 
occur and changes in some of the assumptions may be correlated.

The expected maturity analysis of the undiscounted defined benefit plan obligation is as follows:

Within the next 12 months (next annual reporting period)
Between 2 and 5 years
Between 6 and 10 years
Beyond 10 years

2020
₦ million
89
1,458
4,763
55,285
61,595

2019
₦ million
 198 
 1,403 
 5,421 
127,029
 134,051 

2020
$’000

234
3,842
12,551
145,678
162,305

2019
$’000

 646 
 4,569 
17,658 
413,775
 436,648 

227

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202035.  Employee benefit obligation continued

The weighted average liability duration for the plan is 13.67 years (2019: 11.35 years). The longest weighted duration for Nigerian Government 
bond as at 31 December 2020 was about 10.92 years (2019: 7.26 years) with a gross redemption yield of about 7.42% (2019: 13.31%).

Risk exposure

a. 
Through its defined benefit pension plans, the Group is exposed to several risks. The most significant of which are detailed below:

Liquidity risk

b. 
The plan liabilities are not fully funded and as a result, there is a risk that the Group may not have the required cash flow to fund future defined 
benefit obligations as they fall due.

Inflation risk 

c. 
This is the risk of an unexpected significant rise/fall of market interest rates. A rise leads to a fall in long-term asset values and a rise  
in liability values.

Life expectancy

d. 
The majority of the plans’ obligations are to provide benefits for the life of the member, so increases in life expectancy will result in an increase 
in the plans’ liabilities. This is particularly significant, where inflationary increases result in higher sensitivity to changes in life expectancy.

Asset volatility

e. 
The Group holds a significant proportion of its plan assets in equities, which are expected to outperform corporate bonds in the long term 
while providing volatility and risk in the short term.

Details of the Actuary is shown below:

Name of signer

Name of firm

FRC number

Services rendered

Ganiu Dare Shefiu 

Logic Professional Services

FRC/2017/NAS/00000017548

Actuary valuation services

36.  Trade and other payables

Trade payable
Accruals and other payables 
Pension payables
NDDC levy
Royalties payable
Overlift

2020
₦ million
51,351
56,816
–
4,780
 10,500 
7,021
130,468

2019
₦ million
 31,977 
 84,527
 (29)
 8 
 9,096 
 18,346 
143,925

2020
$’000

135,134
149,521
–
12,578
 27,632 
18,475
343,340

2019
$’000

 104,161 
275,330
 (97)
 23 
 29,629 
 59,758 
468,804

Included in accruals and other payables are field accruals of $109 million, ₦41 billion (2019: $127 million, ₦39 billion) and other vendor 
payables of $49 million, ₦19 billion (Dec 2019: $80 million, ₦25 billion). Royalties payable include accruals in respect of crude oil and gas 
production for which payment is outstanding at the end of the period. 

37.  Contract liabilities

37.1  Reconciliation of contract liabilities

Opening balance 
Recognised as revenue during the year
Addition during the year

2020
₦ million
3,599

2020
₦ million
5,005
(1,406)
–
3,599

2019
₦ million
5,005

2019
₦ million
 – 
–
 5,005 
 5,005 

2020
$’000

9,470

2020
$’000

16,301
(6,831)
–
9,470

2019
$’000

16,301

2019
$’000

 – 
–
 16,301 
 16,301 

Contract liabilities represents take or pay volumes contracted with Azura for 2019 which is yet to be utilised. In line with contract, Azura can 
make a demand on the makeup gas but only after they have taken and paid for the take or pay quantity for the respective year. The contract 
liability is accrued for two years after which the ability to take the makeup gas expires and any outstanding balances are recognised as 
revenue from contracts with customers.

228

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202038.   Summary of net assets transferred 

During the year, Seplat Plc transferred its rights and obligations in respect of OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 to Seplat West Limited. The transfer 
had no impact on the consolidated financial statements for 2020. 

Summary of net assets transferred from Seplat Plc to Seplat West Ltd

Assets

Non-current assets
Oil & Gas properties
Other property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Prepayment
Deferred tax asset

Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Prepayments
Contract assets
Derivative financial instruments
Cash and bank balances

Total assets

Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Lease liabilities
Provision for decommissioning
Defined benefit plan

Current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Contract liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets transferred

At 1 January 2020
₦ million

At 1 January 2020
$’000

 249,888 
 3,581 
 3,397 
 8,552 
 19,228 
 37,610 
 322,256 

 24,316 
 270,907 
 1,478 
 6,527 
 308 
 77,583 
 381,119 
703,375

 193,349 
 2,367 
 34,988 
 3,011 
 233,715 

 21,295 
 5,004 
 26,299 
260,014

 813,967 
 11,666 
 11,064 
 27,858 
 62,633 
 122,508 
 1,049,696 

 79,205 
 882,434 
 4,814 
 21,259 
 1,002 
 252,713 
 1,241,427 
2,291,123

 629,800 
 7,709 
 113,968 
 9,808 
 761,285 

 69,366 
 16,301 
 85,667 
846,952

443,361

1,444,171

229

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202039. 

(Loss)/Earnings per share (LPS)/EPS

Basic 
Basic (LPS)/EPS is calculated on the Group’s profit after taxation attributable to the parent entity, which is based on the weighted average 
number of issued and fully paid ordinary shares at the end of the year.

Diluted 
Diluted (LPS)/EPS is calculated by dividing the profit after taxation attributable to the parent entity by the weighted average number of 
ordinary shares outstanding during the year plus all the dilutive potential ordinary shares (arising from outstanding share awards in the 
share-based payment scheme) into ordinary shares.

(Loss)/profit attributable to Equity holders of the parent
(Loss)/profit attributable to Non-controlling interests
(Loss)/profit from continued operations
Profit from discontinued operations
(Loss)/profit for the year

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue
Outstanding share-based payments (shares)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares adjusted for  
the effect of  dilution
Basic (loss)/earnings per shares
From continuing operations attributable to the ordinary equity holders  
of the Group
From discontinuing operations attributable to the ordinary equity holders  
of the Group
Total basic (loss)/earnings per share attributable to the ordinary equity 
holders of the Group
Diluted (loss)/earnings per shares
From continuing operations attributable to the ordinary equity holders  
of the Group
From discontinuing operations attributable to the ordinary equity holders  
of the Group
Total diluted (loss)/earnings per share attributable to the ordinary equity 
holders of the Group

2020
₦ million
 (26,906)
 (3,806)
 (30,712)
 – 
 (30,712)
Shares ‘000
579,638
8,807

2019
₦ million
80,975
 – 
 80,975 
 4,041 
 85,016 
Shares ‘000
569,228
12,387

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

 (74,747)
 (10,575)
 (85,322)
 – 
 (85,322)
Shares ‘000
579,638
8,807

263,842
–
 263,842 
 13,166 
 277,008 
Shares ‘000
 569,228 
 12,387 

588,445
₦

581,615
₦

588,445
$

 581,615
$

 (46.42)

 142.25 

 (0.13)

–

 7.10 

 (46.42)
₦ 

 149.35 
₦ 

 (45.72)

 139.22 

–

 6.95 

 – 

 (0.13)
$

 (0.13)

 – 

 (45.72)

 146.17 

 (0.13)

 0.46 

 0.02 

 0.48 
$

 0.45 

 0.02 

 0.48 

The weighted average number of issued shares was calculated as a proportion of the number of months in which they were in issue during the 
reporting period.

40.  Dividends paid and proposed

As at 31 December 2020, the final proposed dividend for the Group is ₦19 ($0.05), 2019: ₦15.35 ($0.05).

Cash dividends on ordinary shares declared and paid:
Dividend for 2020: ₦37.32 ($0.10) per share 583,260,187 shares in issue  
(2019: ₦30.7 ($0.10) per share, 575,321,598 shares in issue)
Proposed dividend on ordinary shares:
Final proposed dividend for the year 2020: ₦19 ($0.05) (2019: ₦15.35 ($0.05) 
per share)

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

20,998

18,019

58,342

58,708

11,082

8,831

29,163

28,766

As at 31 December 2020, ₦10.61 billion, ($29.4 million) (2019: ₦9 billion, $29.4 million) of interim dividend was paid at ₦18.03 ($0.05) per share 
as at 30 June 2020 and the remaining dividend ₦10.61 billion ($29.3 million) was paid at ₦19.29 ($0.05) per share as at 30 November 2020. Final 
Naira dividend payments will be based on the Naira/dollar rates on the date for determining the exchange rate. The payment is subject to 
shareholders’ approval at the 2020 Annual General Meeting. The tax effect of dividend paid during the year was $5.8 million (₦2.09 billion).

230

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202041.  Related party relationships and transactions

The Group is controlled by Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc (the parent Company). The parent Company is owned 6.43% either 
directly or by entities controlled by A.B.C. Orjiako (SPDCL(BVI)) and members of his family and 10.21% either directly or by entities controlled 
by Austin Avuru (Professional Support Limited and Platform Petroleum Limited). The remaining shares in the parent Company are widely held.

The goods and services provided by the related parties are disclosed below. The outstanding balances payable to/receivable from related 
parties are unsecured and are payable/receivable in cash.

Shareholders of the parent Company

1. 
Shebah Petroleum Development Company Limited SPDCL (BVI):
The Chairman of Seplat is a director and shareholder of SPDCL (BVI). The Company provided consulting services to Seplat. Services provided 
to the Group during the period amounted to $900 thousand, ₦342 million (2019: $1.05 million, ₦322 million).

Entities controlled by key management personnel (Contracts>$1million in 2020)

2. 
Cardinal Drilling Services Limited (formerly Caroil Drilling Nigeria Limited):
The Company is owned by common shareholders with the parent Company. The Company provides drilling rigs and drilling services to Seplat. 
Transactions with this related party amounted to $5.7 million, ₦2.1 billion (2019: $9.44 million, ₦2.89 billion). Payables amounted to 
$591 thousand, ₦225 million in the current period (Payables in 2019: nil). 

Entities controlled by key management personnel (Contracts<$1million in 2020)

3. 
Abbeycourt Trading Company Limited: 
The Chairman of Seplat is a director and shareholder. The Company provides diesel supplies to Seplat in respect of Seplat’s rig operations. 
This amounted to $296 thousand, ₦106 million during the period (2019: $0.93 million, ₦286 million). Payables amounted to $15,273, ₦5.8 million 
(2019: nil).

Stage leasing (Ndosumili Ventures Limited):
A subsidiary of Platform Petroleum Limited (an entity in which Austin Avuru has an equity interest). The Company provides transportation 
services to Seplat. This amounted to $714 thousand, ₦257million (2019: $1.45 million, ₦445 million). Payables amounted to $23,572, 
₦8.9 million (2019: nil).

42. 

Information relating to employees

42.1  Key management compensation
Key management includes executive and members of the leadership team. The compensation paid or payable to key management for 
employee services is shown below:

Salaries and other short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits 
Share-based payment expenses

42.2  Chairman and Directors’ emoluments

Chairman (Non-executive)
Chief Executive Officer
Executive Directors
Non-Executive Directors
Total

2020 Executive Director emoluments includes 2019 bonus paid in 2020.

42.3  Highest paid Director

Highest paid Director

Emoluments are inclusive of income taxes. 

2020
₦ million
1,074
105
971
2,150

2020
₦ million
395
679
750
862
2,686

2019
₦ million
728
95
166
989

2019
₦ million
 354 
 763 
 800 
 702 
 2,619 

2020
₦ million
484

2019
₦ million
763

2020
$’000

2,984
291
2,699
5,974

2020
$’000
1,098
1,886
2,083
2,395
7,462

2020
$’000

1,346

2019
$’000

2,373
308
540
3,221

2019
$’000
1,155
2,486
2,606
2,287
8,535

2019
$’000

2,486

231

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202042. Information relating to employees continued

42.4  Number of Directors
The number of Directors (excluding the Chairman) whose emoluments fell within the following ranges was:

Zero – ₦19,896,500
₦19,896,501 – ₦115,705,800 
₦115,705,801 – ₦157,947,600
Above ₦157,947,600

Zero – $65,000
$65,001 – $378,000
$378,001 – $516,000
Above $516,000 

2020
Number

2019
Number

–
–
–
4
4

–
–
–
3
3

2020
Number

2019
Number

–
–
–
4
4

–
–
–
3
3

42.5  Employees
The number of employees (other than the Directors) whose duties were wholly or mainly discharged within Nigeria, and who earned over 
₦1,989,650 ($6,500), received remuneration (excluding pension contributions) in the following ranges:

₦1,989,650 – ₦4,897,600
₦4,897,601– ₦9,795,200 
₦9,795,201 – ₦14,692,800
Above ₦14,692,800

$6,500 – $16,000 
$16,001 – $32,000 
$32,001 – $48,000
Above $48,000 

42.6  Number of persons employed during the year
The average number of persons (excluding Directors) in employment during the year was as follows:

Senior management 
Managers
Senior staff
Junior staff 

42.7  Employee cost
Seplat’s staff costs (excluding pension contribution) in respect of the above employees amounted to the following:

2020
Number

2019
Number

9
146
182
191
528

9
142
132
180
463

2020
Number

2019
Number

9
146
182
191
528

9
142
132
180
463

2020
Number

2019
Number

30
111
227
160
528

19
100
200
144
463

2020
₦ million
9,055
9,055

2019
₦ million
 7,015 
 7,015 

2020
$’000

25,159
25,159

2019
$’000

 22,851 
 22,851 

Salaries & wages

232

Notes to the consolidated financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202043.  Commitments and contingencies 

43.1  Contingent liabilities
The Company is involved in a number of legal suits as defendant. The estimated value of the contingent liabilities for the year ended 31 
December 2020 is ₦23.2million, $61,194 (2019: ₦14 billion, $48 million). The contingent liability for the year is determined based on possible 
occurrences, though unlikely to occur. No provision has been made for this potential liability in these financial statements. Management and 
the Company’s solicitors are of the opinion that the Company will suffer no loss from these claims.

Under the OML 40 Joint Operating Agreement (JOA), the Company is responsible for its share of expenditures incurred on OML 40 in respect of 
its participating interest, on the basis that the operator’s estimated expenditures are reasonably incurred based on the approved work 
programme and budget. From time to time, management disputes such expenditures on the basis that they do not meet these criteria, and 
when this occurs management accrues at the period end for its best estimate of the amounts payable to the operator. Consequently, the 
amounts recognised as accruals as of 31 December 2020 reflect management’s best estimate of amounts that have been incurred in 
accordance with the JOA and that will ultimately be paid to settle its obligations in this regard. 

However, management recognises there are a range of possible outcomes, which may be higher or lower than the management’s estimate of 
accrued expenditure. It is estimated that around $8,383,356 (2019: $5,946,000) of possible expenditure currently remains under dispute. 

The movement from the prior year is driven majorly by a non-JOA compliant and unbudgeted expenditure on Escravos pipeline, a project that 
the Joint Venture has since jointly taken a decision to suspend and overheads from the Operator’s parent company over and above the JOA 
stipulated 2.5% of actual Capital Expenditure. Management considers the merits for these cost items to remain rejected to be very high, but 
in recognition of possible range of outcomes has included them in the contingent liability estimates.

43.2  Capital commitments
Significant capital expenditure contracted for at the end of the reporting period but not recognised as liabilities is as follows:

Property, plant and equipment 

31 Dec 2020
₦ million 
–

31 Dec 2019
₦ million
31,022

31 Dec 2020
$’000

–

31 Dec 2019
$’000

101,050

Anoh Joint Venture: The above commitments include capital expenditure commitments of (2019: ₦18.4 billion ($60 million)) relating to the 
Anoh Joint Venture.

44.  Events after the reporting period

On 1 February 2021, ANOH Gas Processing Company Limited, a joint venture of the Group, successfully raised $260 million (₦98.8 billion) in 
debt to fund completion of its ANOH Gas Processing Plant.

233

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Consolidated statement of value added
For the year ended 31 December 2020

Revenue from contracts with customers
Other income (net)
Finance income
Cost of goods and other services:
Local 
Foreign 
Valued added

Applied as follows:

To employees:
– as salaries and labour related expenses
To external providers of capital:
– as interest
To Government:
– as Group taxes
Retained for the Group’s future:
–  For asset replacement, depreciation,  

depletion and amortisation
Deferred tax (charges)/credit
(Loss)/profit for the year
Valued added

2020
₦ million
 190,922 
30,184
 601 

 (102,472)
 (68,315)
 50,920 

%

2019
₦ million
 214,157 
 9,170 
 4,134 

%

2020
$’000

 530,467 
83,864
 1,671 

%

2019s
$’000

 697,777 
 29,876 
 13,471 

%

 (49,694)
 (33,129)
100%  144,638 

 (284,712)
 (189,808)
100% 141,482

 (161,913)
 (107,942)
100%  471,269 

100%

2020
₦ million

%

2019
₦ million

%

2020
$’000

%

2019
$’000

 13,324 

26%

 11,565 

8%

37,017

26%

 37,681 

 18,656 

37%

 10,294 

7%

 51,834 

37%

 33,539 

 4,919 

10%

 6,964 

5%

 13,668 

10%

 22,689 

%

8%

7%

5%

 47,812 
 (3,079)
 (30,712)
 50,920 

 28,824 
94%
 1,975 
(6%)
(60%)
 85,016 
100%  144,638 

1%

20% 132,840
 (8,555)
59%  (85,322)
100%  141,482 

 93,916 
94%
 6,436 
(6%)
(60%)
 277,008 
100%  471,269 

20%
1%
59%
100%

The value added represents the additional wealth which the Group has been able to create by its own and its employees’ efforts. This 
statement shows the allocation of that wealth to employees, providers of finance, shareholders, government and that retained for the 
creation of future wealth.

234

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Consolidated five-year financial summary
As at 31 December 2020

Revenue from contracts with customers
(Loss)/profit from continuing operation before taxation
(Loss)/profit from discontinuing operation before taxation
(Loss)/profit before tax
Income tax (expense)/credit
(Loss)/profit for the year

Capital employed:
Issued share capital
Share premium
Share-based payment reserve
Capital contribution
Retained earnings
Foreign currency translation reserve
Non-controlling interest
Total equity
Represented by:
Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Net assets

Revenue from contracts with customers
(Loss)/profit from continuing operation before taxation
Profit from discontinuing operation before taxation
(Loss)/profit before tax
Income tax (expense)/credit
(Loss)/profit for the year

Capital employed:
Issued share capital
Share premium
Share-based payment reserve
Capital contribution
Retained earnings
Foreign currency translation reserve
Non-controlling interest
Total equity
Represented by:
Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Net assets

2020
₦ million
 190,922 
 (28,872)
–
 (28,872)
 (1,840)
 (30,712)

2020
₦ million

 293 
 86,917 
7,174
 5,932 
 211,790 
 331,289 
 (11,058)
 632,337 

 1,083,683 
 227,154 
 (499,349)
 (179,151)
 632,337 

2020
$’000

 530,467 
 (80,209)
–
 (80,209)
 (5,113)
 (85,322)

2019
₦ million
 214,157 
 89,914
 4,041 
 93,955
 (8,939)
 85,016

2019
₦ million

 289 
 84,045 
 8,194 
 5,932 
 259,690 
 202,910 
 (7,252)
 553,808 

717,664
 286,569 
 (258,903)
(191,522)
553,808

2019
$’000

 697,777 
292,967
 13,166 
 306,133 
 (29,125)
 277,008

2018
₦ million
 228,391 
80,599
16
80,615
 (35,748)
 44,867 

2018
₦ million

 286 
 82,080 
 7,298 
 5,932 
 192,723 
 203,153 
 – 
 491,472 

502,512
 264,159 
(184,808)
 (90,391) 
 491,472 

2018
$’000

 746,140 
 263,314 
50
263,364
 (116,788)
 146,576 

2017
₦ million
 138,281 
 13,454 
–
 13,454 
 67,657 
 81,111 

2017
₦ million

 283 
 82,080 
 4,332 
 5,932 
 166,149 
 200,870 
 – 
 459,646 

 539,672 
 259,881 
 (131,925)
 (207,982)
 459,646 

2017
$’000

 452,179 
 43,997 
–
 43,997 
 221,233 
 265,230 

2016
₦ million
 63,384 
 (47,419)
–
 (47,419)
 2,035 
 (45,384)

2016
₦ million

 283 
 82,080 
 2,597 
 5,932 
 85,052 
 200,429 
 – 
 376,373 

 462,402 
 202,274 
 (141,473)
 (146,830)
 376,373 

2016
$’000

 254,217 
 (172,766)
–
 (172,766)
 6,672 
 (166,094)

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

2018
$’000

2017
$’000

2016
$’000

 1,855 
 511,723 
 27,592 
 40,000 
 1,116,079
 992 
 (34,196)
 1,664,045 

 2,851,803 
 597,770 
 (1,314,076)
 (471,452)
 1,664,045 

 1,845 
 503,742 
 30,426 
 40,000 
 1,249,156 
 2,391 
 (23,621)
 1,803,939 

2,337,670
 933,440 
 (843,322)
 (623,849)
 1,803,939

 1,834 
 497,457 
 27,499 
 40,000 
 1,030,954 
 3,141 
 – 
 1,600,885 

1,639,843
 860,455 
(601,976)
 (294,437)
 1,600,885 

 1,826 
 497,457 
 17,809 
 40,000 
 944,108 
 1,897 
 – 
 1,503,097 

1,764,789
849,841
(431,407)
(680,126)
 1,503,097 

1,826
497,457
 12,135 
40,000
678,922
3,675
 – 
 1,234,015 

1,516,073
663,200
(463,847)
(481,411)
 1,234,015 

235

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Consolidated supplementary financial information (unaudited)
For the year ended 31 December 2020

45.  Estimated quantities of proved plus probable reserves

At 31 December 2019
Revisions of previous estimates
Discoveries and extensions
Production
At 31 December 2020

Oil & NGLs
MMbbls

Natural Gas
Bscf

Oil Equivalent
MMboe

251.8
1.01
– 
(12.3)
240.51

1,493.5
– 
45
(37.08)
1,501.42

509.3
1.01
7.76
(18.70)
499.37

Reserves are those quantities of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquid that, upon analysis of geological and engineering data, appear 
with reasonable certainty to be recoverable in the future from known reservoirs under existing economic and operating conditions.

Elcrest holds a 45% participating interest in OML40. Eland holds a 45% interest in Elcrest although has control until such point as Westport 
loan is fully repaid.

As additional information becomes available or conditions change, estimates are revised.

46.  Capitalised costs related to oil producing activities

Capitalised costs:
Unproved properties
Proved properties
Total capitalised costs
Accumulated depreciation
Net capitalised costs

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

871,470
871,470
(261,995)
609,475

–
651,358
651,358
(172,986)
478,372

2,293,348
2,293,348
(689,460)
1,603,888

–
2,121,686
2,121,686
(563,473)
1,558,213

Capitalised costs include the cost of equipment and facilities for oil producing activities. Unproved properties include capitalised costs for oil 
leaseholds under exploration, and uncompleted exploratory well costs, including exploratory wells under evaluation. Proved properties 
include capitalised costs for oil leaseholds holding proved reserves, development wells and related equipment and facilities (including 
uncompleted development well costs) and support equipment.

47.  Concessions
The original, expired and unexpired terms of concessions granted to the Group as at 31 December 2020 are:

Seplat West Limited
Newton
Seplat East Swamp
Seplat Swamp
Elcrest
Elcrest

OML 4, 38 & 41 
OML 56
OML 53
OML 55
OML 40
OML 17

48.  Results of operations for oil producing activities

Revenue from contracts with customers
Other income – net
Production and administrative expenses
Impairment losses
Depreciation and amortisation
(Loss)/profit before taxation
Taxation
(Loss)/profit after taxation 

Original Term in years expired

Unexpired

38
16
30
30
18.8
20

2019
₦ million
 151,954 
 9,170 
 (85,300)
(14,692)
(25,570)
 35,562 
 (8,939)
 26,623 

20
10
22
22
1
1

2020
$’000

417,941
83,864
(391,989)
(144,080)
(126,044)
(160,308)
3,415
(156,893)

18
6
8
8
17.8
19

2019
$’000

 495,104 
 29,876 
 (276,451)
(47,869)
(84,792)
 115,868 
 (29,125)
 86,743 

2020
₦ million
150,422
30,184
(133,684)
(51,856)
(52,766)
(57,700)
1,229
(56,471)

49.  Reclassification
Certain comparative figures have been reclassified in line with the current year’s presentation.

50.  Exchange rates used in translating the accounts to Naira 
The table below shows the exchange rates used in translating the accounts into Naira.

Fixed assets – opening balances
Fixed assets – additions
Fixed assets – closing balances
Current assets
Current liabilities
Equity
Income and expenses

236

Basis

Historical rate
Average rate
Closing rate
Closing rate
Closing rate
Historical rate
Overall average rate

31 December 
2020
₦/$
Historical
359.91
380.00
380.00
380.00
Historical
359.91

31 December 
2019
₦/$
Historical
306.91
307.00
307.00
307.00
Historical
306.91

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020SEPARATE  
STATEMENTS

Separate statement of profit or loss  
and other comprehensive income 
Separate statement of financial position 
Separate statement of changes in equity 
Separate statement of cash flows 
Notes to the separate financial statements 
Separate statement of value added 
Separate five-year financial summary 
Separate supplementary financial  
information (unaudited) 

238
239
240
242
243
291
292

293

238– 
293

237

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Separate financial statements 
Statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income
For the year ended 31 December 2020

Revenue from contracts with customers
Cost of sales
Gross profit
Other income
General and administrative expenses
Impairment losses on financial assets
Fair value loss
Operating (loss)/profit
Finance income
Finance cost
Finance income/(cost)-net
Loss on disposal of investment in subsidiary
Profit before taxation
Income tax credit
(Loss)/Profit for the year
Other comprehensive income/(loss):
Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss:
Foreign currency translation difference
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:
Remeasurement of post-employment benefit obligations
Deferred tax credit on remeasurement losses

Other comprehensive loss for the year (net of tax)

Total comprehensive income for the year (net of tax)

Basic earnings per share ₦/($)
Diluted earnings per share ₦/($)

Notes
8
9

10
11
12
13

14
14

22

15

30

34
15

37
37

31 Dec 2020
₦ million
 – 
 – 
 – 
(2,383)
(5,054)
–
–
(7,437)
277
–
277
–
(7,160)
–
(7,160)

(5,319)

–
–
–
(5,319)

31 Dec 2019
₦ million
 200,733 
 (85,987)
 114,746 
 4,096 
 (17,044)
 (12,784)
 (3,969)
 85,045 
 4,702 
 (10,129)
 (5,427)
 (5)
 79,613 
 (13,484)
 66,129 

 (17) 

 (201)
 171 
 (30)
 (47) 

31 Dec 2020
$’000
 – 
 – 
 – 
(6,621)
(14,046)
–
–
(20,667)
770
–
770
–
(19,897)
–
(19,897)

–

–
–
–
–

31 Dec 2019
$’000
 654,037 
 (280,162)
 373,875 
 13,346 
 (55,531)
 (41,652)
 (12,930)
 277,108 
 15,321 
 (33,001)
 (17,680)
 (17)
 259,411 
 (43,934)
 215,477 

 – 

 (656)
 558 
 (98)
 (98)

(12,479)

 66,082 

(19,897)

 215,379 

(12.35)
(12.17)

116.17
113.70

(0.03)
(0.03)

0.38
0.37

Notes 1 to 46 on pages 243-293 are an integral part of these financial statements.

238

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Separate statement of financial position
As at 31 December 2020

Assets
Non-current assets
Oil & gas properties
Other property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets 
Intangible assets
Prepayments
Deferred tax
Investment in subsidiaries
Investment in Joint Ventures
Total non-current assets
Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Prepayments
Contract assets
Derivative financial instruments
Cash and bank balances
Total current assets
Total assets
Equity and liabilities
Equity
Issued share capital
Share premium
Share-based payment reserve
Capital contribution 
Retained earnings
Foreign currency translation reserve
Total shareholders’ equity
Non-current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Lease liabilities
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Defined benefit plan
Total non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Trade and other payables
Contract liabilities
Current tax liabilities
Total current liabilities
Total liabilities
Total shareholders’ equity and liabilities

Notes

31 Dec 2020
₦ million

31 Dec 2019
₦ million

31 Dec 2020
$’000

31 Dec 2019
$’000

17
17
19
18
20
15
21
22

23
24
20
25
26
27

28
28
28
29

30

32

33

32
35
36
15

 – 
304
 – 
 – 
–
–
593,425
79,806
673,535

–
501
2
–
–
72,621
73,124
746,659

293
86,917
7,174
5,932
254,070
191,216
545,602

–
–
–
–
–

–
201,057
–
–
201,057
201,057
746,659

 249,888 
3,582
 3,397 
 8,553 
 19,228 
 37,609 
 150,054 
 46,055 
 518,366 

 24,315 
 423,475 
 1,479 
 6,527 
 308 
83,319
 539,423 
 1,057,789 

 289 
 84,045 
 8,194 
 5,932 
 282,228 
 196,535 
 577,223 

 193,349 
 2,367 
 34,988 
 3,011 
 233,715 

 21,295 
 215,669 
 5,005 
 4,882 
 246,851 
 480,566 
 1,057,789 

 – 
799
 – 
 – 
 – 
–
 1,932,983 
210,016
2,143,798

–
1,320
5
–
–
191,105
192,430
2,336,228

1,855
511,723
27,592
40,000
1,225,958
–
1,807,128

–
–
–
–
–

–
529,100
–
–
529,100
529,100
2,336,228

 813,967 
11,666
 11,064 
 27,858 
 62,633 
 122,508 
 488,779 
 150,016 
 1,688,491 

 79,205 
 1,379,404 
 4,814 
 21,259 
 1,002 
 271,398
 1,757,082 
 3,445,573 

 1,845 
 503,742 
 30,426 
 40,000 
 1,304,197 
 – 
 1,880,210 

 629,800 
 7,709 
 113,968 
 9,808 
 761,285 

 69,366 
 702,510 
 16,301 
 15,901 
 804,078 
 1,565,363 
 3,445,573 

Notes 1 to 46 on pages 243-293 are an integral part of these financial statements.

The financial statements of Seplat Development Company Plc for the year ended 31 December 2020 were authorised for issue in accordance 
with a resolution of the Directors on 28 February 2021 and were signed on its behalf by:

A.B.C. Orjiako  
FRC/2013/IODN/00000003161  
Chairman 
1 March 2021

R.T. Brown 
FRC/2014/ANAN/00000017939  
Chief Executive Officer 
1 March 2021

E. Onwuka  
FRC/2020/003/00000020861 
Chief Financial Officer 
1 March 2021

239

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Separate financial statements 
Statement of changes in equity 
As at 31 December 2020

At 1 January 2019 
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive loss
Total comprehensive 
income for the year
Transactions with owners in 
their capacity as owners:
Dividends paid
Share-based payments 
(Note 28)
Vested shares (Note 28)
Total
At 31 December 2019
At 1 January 2020 
Loss for the year
Other comprehensive loss
Total comprehensive loss 
for the year
Transactions with owners in 
their capacity as owners:
Dividend paid
Share-based payments 
(Note 28)
Vested shares (Note 28)
Total
At 31 December 2020

Issued  
share  
capital
₦ million
 286 
 –
 –

Share  
premium
₦ million
 82,080 
 –
 –

Share-based 
payment
reserve
₦ million
7,298
 –
 –

Capital  
contribution
₦ million
5,932
 –
 –

Retained
earnings
₦ million
234,148
 66,129 
 (30)

Foreign currency 
translation 
reserve
₦ million
196,552
 – 
 (17) 

Total 
equity
₦ million
526,296
 66,129 
 (47) 

–

 –

–
 3
3
289
289
–
–

–

–

–
4
4
293

–

 –

 –
 1,965
 1,965
84,045
84,045
–
–

–

–

–
2,872
2,872
86,917

–

 –

 2,864 
 (1,968)
 896 
8,194
8,194
–
–

–

–

1,856
(2,876)
(1,020)
7,174

–

 –

–
 –
 –
5,932
5,932
–
–

–

–

–
–
–
5,932

 66,099 

 (17)

 66,082 

(18,019)

 – 

 (18,019)

–
 –
(18,019)
 282,228 
 282,228 
(7,160)
–

–
 –
–
 196,535 
 196,535 
–
(5,319)

 2,864 
 – 
 (15,155)
 577,223 
 577,223 
(7,160)
(5,319)

(7,160)

(5,319)

(12,479)

(20,998)

–
–
(20,998)
254,070

–

(20,998)

–
–
–
191,216

1,856
–
(19,142)
545,602

Notes 1 to 46 on pages 243-293 are an integral part of these financial statements.

240

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Share-based 
payment
reserve
$’000

Capital  
contribution
$’000

At 1 January 2019
Profit for the year
Other comprehensive loss
Total comprehensive income for the year
Transactions with owners in their capacity 
as owners:
Dividends paid
Share-based payments 
Issue of shares 
Total
At 31 December 2019 
At 1 January 2020
Loss for the year
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive loss for the year
Transactions with owners in their capacity 
as owners:
Dividend paid
Share-based payments (Note 28)
Issue of shares (Note 28)
Total
At 31 December 2020

Issued  
share  
capital
$’000

1,834
–
–
–

 – 
 – 
11
11
1,845
1,845
–
–
 – 

–
 – 
10
10
 1,855 

Share  
premium
$’000

497,457
–
–
–

 – 
 – 
6,285
 6,285 
 503,742 
 503,742 
–
–
 – 

–
–
7,981
7,981
511,723

Notes 1 to 46 on pages 243-293 are an integral part of these financial statements.

27,499
–
–
–

 – 
 9,223 
 (6,296)
 2,927 
 30,426 
 30,426 
–
–
 – 

–
5,157
 (7,991)
 (2,834)
27,592

Retained
earnings
$’000

1,147,526
 215,477 
 (98)
 215,379 

 (58,708)
 – 
 – 
 (58,708)
 1,304,197
 1,304,197
(19,897)
–
(19,897)

40,000
–
–
–

 – 
 – 
 – 
–
40,000
40,000
–
–
 – 

–
–
–
 – 
 40,000 

(58,342)
–
–
 (58,342)
 1,225,958

Total 
equity
$’000

1,714,316
 215,477 
 (98)
 215,379 

 (58,708)
 9,223 
 – 
 (49,485)
 1,880,210 
 1,880,210 
(19,897)
–
(19,897)

(58,342)
5,157
–
(53,185)
1,807,128

241

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Separate financial statements
Statement of cash flows
For the year ended 31 December 2020

Cash flows from operating activities
Cash generated from operations
Tax paid
Defined benefit paid
Net cash inflows from operating activities
Cash flows from investing activities
Payment for acquisition of subsidiary
Cash transferred as additional investment in subsidiary
Payment for acquisition of oil and gas properties
Proceeds from disposal of oil and gas properties
Payment for acquisition of other property, plant 
and equipment
Payment for investment in joint venture
Interest received
Net cash outflows from investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Increase in investment in subsidiary
Repayments of loans
Proceeds from loans
Dividends paid 
Payments for other financing charges
Interest paid on bank financing
Net cash (outflows)/inflows from financing activities
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash  
and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

Notes

31 Dec 2020
₦ million

31 Dec 2019
₦ million

31 Dec 2020
$’000

31 Dec 2019
$’000

16
15
34

21
31
17
17

17
22
14

21
32
32
38
32
32

 99,361 
 –
 – 
 99,361 

–
(77,583)
–
–

(289)
(21,595)
277
(99,190)

(10)
–
–
(20,998)
–
–
(21,008)
(20,837)
81,263

1,524
61,950

 78,734 
 (1,036)
 (86)
 77,612 

 (148,127)
–
 (29,367)
 15,532 

 (3,154)
 (31,627)
 4,702 
 (192,041)

–
 (30,691)
 106,346 
 (18,019)
 (2,696)
 (10,364)
 44,576 
 (69,853)
 152,486 

 (1,370)
 81,263 

 276,065 
 –
 – 
 276,065 

–
(252,713)
–
–

(802)
(60,000)
770
(312,745)

(33)
–
–
(58,342)
–
–
(58,375)
(95,055)
264,700

(6,621)
163,024

 256,433 
 (3,380)
 (280)
 252,773 

 (482,637)

 (95,685)
 50,614 

 (10,274)
 (103,050)
 15,321 
 (625,711)

–
 (100,000)
 346,500 
 (58,708)
 (8,783)
 (33,770)
 145,239 
 (227,699)
 496,698 

 (4,299)
 264,700 

For the purposes of the cash flow statements, the restricted cash balance of $7.3 million, ₦2.8 billion has been excluded from the cash and 
cash equivalents at the end of the year. These amounts are subject to legal restrictions and are therefore not available for general use  
by the Company.

An additional $20.8 million, ₦7.9 billion, of funds deposited in Access bank Plc bank accounts in the ordinary course of business are being 
unilaterally restricted by Access bank Plc in connection with the Court case between Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc and 
Access bank Plc.

Notes 1 to 46 on pages 243-293 are an integral part of these financial statements.

242

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Notes to the separate financial statements

1. 

Corporate information and business

Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc (‘Seplat’ or the ‘Company’) was incorporated on 17 June 2009 as a private limited liability 
company and re-registered as a public company on 3 October 2014, under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAP C20, Laws of  
the Federation of Nigeria 2004. The Company commenced operations on 1 August 2010. The Company is principally engaged in  
oil and gas exploration.

The Company’s registered address is: 16a Temple Road (Olu Holloway), Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria.

The Company acquired, pursuant to an agreement for assignment dated 31 January 2010 between the Company, Shell Petroleum 
Development Company, TOTAL and AGIP, a 45% participating interest in the following producing assets: 

OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 located in Nigeria. The total purchase price for these assets was ₦104 billion ($340 million) paid at the completion 
of the acquisition on 31 July 2010 and a contingent payment of ₦10 billion ($33 million) payable 30 days after the second anniversary, 31 July 
2012, if the average price per barrel of Brent Crude oil over the period from acquisition up to 31 July 2012 exceeds ₦24,560 ($80) per barrel. 
₦110 billion ($358.6 million) was allocated to the producing assets including ₦5.7 billion ($18.6 million) as the fair value of the contingent 
consideration as calculated on acquisition date. The contingent consideration of ₦10 billion ($33 million) was paid on 22 October 2012.

On 1 January 2020, Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc transferred its 45% participating interest in OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 
(‘transferred assets’) to Seplat West Limited. As a result, Seplat ceased to be a party to the Joint Operating Agreement in respect of the 
transferred assets and became a holding company. Seplat West Limited became a party to the Joint Operating Agreement in respect of the 
transferred assets and assumed its rights and obligations.

2.  Significant changes in the current accounting period

The following significant changes occurred during the reporting year ended 31 December 2020: 

• There was a change in the Company’s operational structure which took effect on1 January, 2020 where Seplat Plc ceased to be a party to the 
Joint Operating Agreement in respect of the Oil Mining Lease Numbers 4, 38 and 41 and transferred its right and obligation to Seplat West 
Limited. Seplat West Plc became a party to the Joint Operating agreement and assumed the rights and obligation in respect of the 
transferred asset. Seplat Plc is now a holding company.

3.  Summary of significant accounting policies

Introduction to summary of significant accounting policies 

3.1 
This note provides a list of the significant accounting policies adopted in the preparation of these financial statements. These accounting 
policies have been applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.

3.2  Basis of preparation
The financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2020 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRS) and interpretations issued by the IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRS IC). The financial statements comply with IFRS  
as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB). Additional information required by national regulations is included  
where appropriate. 

The financial statements comprise the statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, the statement of financial position, the 
statement of changes in equity, the statement of cash flows and the notes to the financial statements.

The financial statements have been prepared under the going concern assumption and historical cost convention, except for contingent 
liability and consideration, and financial instruments measured at fair value on initial recognition and defined benefit plans – plan assets 
measured at fair value. The financial statements are presented in Nigerian Naira and United States dollars, and all values are rounded to the 
nearest million (₦’million) and thousand ($’000) respectively, except when otherwise indicated. 

Nothing has come to the attention of the Directors to indicate that the Company will not remain a going concern for at least 12 months from 
the date of this statement.

3.3  New and amended standards adopted by the Company
The following standards and amendments became effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2020. The Company has not 
early adopted any other standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective.

Amendments to IFRS 3 Definition of a Business

a. 
The amendment to IFRS 3 clarifies that to be considered a business, an integrated set of activities and assets must include, at a minimum, an 
input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create output. Furthermore, it clarified that a business 
can exist without including all of the inputs and processes needed to create outputs. These amendments had no impact on the separate 
financial statements of the Company but may impact future periods should the Company enter into any business combinations.

Amendments to IFRS 7, IFRS 9 and IAS 39 Interest Rate Benchmark Reform

b. 
These amendments to IFRS 9 and IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement provide a number of reliefs, which apply to all 
hedging relationships that are directly affected by interest rate benchmark reform. A hedging relation is affected if the reform gives rise to 
uncertainties about the timing and of amount of benchmark-based cash flows of the hedged item or the hedging instrument. These 
amendments had no impact on the separate financial statements of the Company as it does not have any interest rate hedge relationships.

Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8 Definition of Material

c. 
The amendments provide a new definition of material that states, “information is material if omitting, misstating or obscuring it could 
reasonably be expected to influence decisions that the primary users of general-purpose financial statements make on the basis of those 
financial statements, which provide financial information about a specific reporting entity.”

243

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Notes to the separate financial statements | continued

3.  Summary of significant accounting policies continued

3.3  New and amended standards adopted by the Company continued
c. 

Amendments to IAS 1 and IAS 8 Definition of Material continued

The amendments clarify that materiality will depend on the nature or magnitude of information, either individually or in combination with 
other information, in the context of the financial statements. A misstatement of information is material if it could reasonably be expected to 
influence decisions made by the primary users. These amendments had no impact on the separate financial statements of, nor is there 
expected to be any future impact to, the Company.

Amendments to IFRS 16 Covid-19 Related Rent Concessions

d. 
On 28 May 2020, the IASB issued Covid-19 Related Rent Concessions-amendment to IFRS 16 Leases. The amendments provide relief to 
lessees from applying IFRS 16 guidance on lease modification accounting for rent concessions arising as a direct consequence of the 
Covid-19 pandemic. As a practical expedient, a lessee may elect not to assess whether a Covid-19 related rent concession from the lessor is a 
lease modification.

The amendment applies to annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 June 2020. Earlier application is permitted. This amendment had 
no impact on the separate financial statements of the Company.

Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting issued on 29 March 2018

e. 
The Conceptual Framework is not a standard, and none of the concepts contained therein override the concepts or requirements in any 
standard. The purpose of the Conceptual Framework is to assist the IASB in developing standards, to help preparers develop consistent 
accounting policies where there is no applicable standard in place and to assist all parties to understand and interpret the standards.

The revised Conceptual Framework includes some new concepts, provides updated definitions and recognition criteria for assets and 
liabilities and clarifies some important concepts. 

These amendments had no impact on the separate financial statements of the Company.

3.4  Standards issued but not yet effective
The new and amended standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Company’s 
financial statements are disclosed below. The Company intends to adopt these new and amended standards and interpretations, if 
applicable, when they become effective.

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts

i. 
In May 2017, the IASB issued IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts (IFRS 17), a comprehensive new accounting standard for insurance contracts 
covering recognition and measurement, presentation and disclosure. Once effective, IFRS 17 will replace IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts (IFRS 4) 
that was issued in 2005. IFRS 17 applies to all types of insurance contracts (i.e., life, non-life, direct insurance and re-insurance), regardless of 
the type of entities that issue them, as well as to certain guarantees and financial instruments with discretionary participation features. A few 
scope exceptions will apply. The overall objective of IFRS 17 is to provide an accounting model for insurance contracts that is more useful and 
consistent for insurers. In contrast to the requirements in IFRS 4, which are largely based on grandfathering previous local accounting 
policies, IFRS 17 provides a comprehensive model for insurance contracts, covering all relevant accounting aspects. The core of IFRS 17 is the 
general model, supplemented by: 

• A specific adaptation for contracts with direct participation features (the variable fee approach) 

• A simplified approach (the premium allocation approach) mainly for short-duration contracts 

IFRS 17 is effective for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2023, with comparative figures required. Early application is 
permitted, provided the entity also applies IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 on or before the date it first applies IFRS 17. This standard is not applicable to 
the Company. 

Amendments to IAS 1: Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current

ii. 
In January 2020, the IASB issued amendments to paragraphs 69 to 76 of IAS 1 to specify the requirements for classifying liabilities as current 
or non-current. The amendments clarify: 

• What is meant by a right to defer settlement 

• That a right to defer must exist at the end of the reporting period 

• That classification is unaffected by the likelihood that an entity will exercise its deferral right 

• That only if an embedded derivative in a convertible liability is itself an equity instrument would the terms of a liability not  

impact its classification 

The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2023 and must be applied retrospectively.  
The Company is currently assessing the impact the amendments will have on current practice and whether existing loan agreements  
may require renegotiation.

Reference to the Conceptual Framework – Amendments to IFRS 3

iii. 
In May 2020, the IASB issued Amendments to IFRS 3 Business Combinations – Reference to the Conceptual Framework. The amendments 
are intended to replace a reference to the Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements, issued in 1989, with a 
reference to the Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting issued in March 2018 without significantly changing its requirements. 

The Board also added an exception to the recognition principle of IFRS 3 to avoid the issue of potential ‘day 2’ gains or losses arising for 
liabilities and contingent liabilities that would be within the scope of IAS 37 or IFRIC 21 Levies, if incurred separately. 

244

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020At the same time, the Board decided to clarify existing guidance in IFRS 3 for contingent assets that would not be affected by replacing the 
reference to the Framework for the Preparation and Presentation of Financial Statements. 

The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022 and apply prospectively.

Property, Plant and Equipment – Proceeds before Intended Use – Amendments to IAS 16

iv. 
In May 2020, the IASB issued Property, Plant and Equipment – Proceeds before Intended Use, which prohibits entities deducting from the 
cost of an item of property, plant and equipment, any proceeds from selling items produced while bringing that asset to the location and 
condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Instead, an entity recognises the proceeds from 
selling such items, and the costs of producing those items, in profit or loss. 

The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022 and must be applied retrospectively to items of 
property, plant and equipment made available for use on or after the beginning of the earliest period presented when the entity first applies 
the amendment. 

The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company. 

Onerous Contracts – Costs of Fulfilling a Contract – Amendments to IAS 37

v. 
In May 2020, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 37 to specify which costs an entity needs to include when assessing whether a contract is 
onerous or loss-making. 

The amendments apply a “directly related cost approach”. The costs that relate directly to a contract to provide goods or services include both 
incremental costs and an allocation of costs directly related to contract activities. General and administrative costs do not relate directly to a 
contract and are excluded unless they are explicitly chargeable to the counterparty under the contract. 

The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022. The Company will apply these amendments 
to contracts for which it has not yet fulfilled all its obligations at the beginning of the annual reporting period in which it first applies 
the amendments.

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments – Fees in the ’10 per cent’ test for derecognition of financial liabilities

vi. 
As part of its 2018-2020 annual improvements to IFRS standards process the IASB issued amendment to IFRS 9. The amendment clarifies the 
fees that an entity includes when assessing whether the terms of a new or modified financial liability are substantially different from the 
terms of the original financial liability. These fees include only those paid or received between the borrower and the lender, including fees paid 
or received by either the borrower or lender on the other’s behalf. An entity applies the amendment to financial liabilities that are modified or 
exchanged on or after the beginning of the annual reporting period in which the entity first applies the amendment. 

The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2022 with earlier adoption permitted. The Company 
will apply the amendments to financial liabilities that are modified or exchanged on or after the beginning of the annual reporting period in 
which the entity first applies the amendment. 

The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company.

IAS 41 Agriculture – Taxation in fair value measurements

vii. 
As part of its 2018-2020 annual improvements to IFRS standards process the IASB issued amendment to IAS 41 Agriculture. The amendment 
removes the requirement in paragraph 22 of IAS 41 that entities exclude cash flows for taxation when measuring the fair value of assets within 
the scope of IAS 41. 

An entity applies the amendment prospectively to fair value measurements on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period 
beginning on or after 1 January 2022 with earlier adoption permitted. 

The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company.

 Functional and presentation currency

3.5 
Items included in the financial statements are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company 
operates (‘the functional currency’), which is the US dollar. The financial statements are presented in Nigerian Naira and the US dollar.

The Company has chosen to show both presentation currencies and this is allowable by the regulator.

Transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions. Foreign 
exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies at year end are generally recognised in profit or loss. 

Foreign exchange gains and losses that relate to borrowings are presented in the statement of profit or loss, within finance costs. All other 
foreign exchange gains and losses are presented in the statement of profit or loss on a net basis within other income or other expenses.

Non-monetary items that are measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair 
value was determined. Translation differences on assets and liabilities carried at fair value are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss or 
other comprehensive income depending on where fair value gain or loss is reported.

Joint arrangements

3.6 
Under IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements, investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or joint ventures. The 
classification depends on the contractual rights and obligations of each investor, rather than the legal structure of the joint arrangement.  
The Company accounts for interest in the joint venture at cost.

245

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.  Summary of significant accounting policies continued

3.7  Group reorganisation
A Group reorganisation involves restructuring the relationship between entities under common control. It is the transfer of assets (shares or 
businesses of a group entity), from one group entity to another. This may be between existing or newly formed entities within the Group. 
Common control means all the combining entities or businesses are ultimately controlled by the same party both before and after 
the reorganisation.

The Company accounts for reorganisation involving entities under common control using pooling of interest method. On the date of transfer, 
the assets and liabilities are transferred to the acquirer at their carrying value, no adjustments are made to reflect their fair value, and no new 
goodwill is recognised. The net effect of assets and liabilities transferred is recognised as additional investment in subsidiaries.

The assets and liabilities transferred are reflected prospectively in the Company’s financial statements from the date of transfer without 
restating the comparative period.

3.8  Oil and gas accounting
i. 
Pre-licensing costs are expensed in the period in which they are incurred.

Pre-licensing costs

Exploration licence cost

ii. 
Exploration licence costs are capitalised within intangible assets. Licence costs paid in connection with a right to explore in an existing 
exploration area are capitalised and amortised on a straight-line basis over the life of the permit.

Licence costs are reviewed at each reporting date to confirm that there is no indication that the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable 
amount. This review includes confirming that exploration drilling is still under way or firmly planned, or that it has been determined, or work is 
under way to determine that the discovery is economically viable based on a range of technical and commercial considerations and sufficient 
progress is being made to establish development plans and timing. If no future activity is planned or the licence has been relinquished or has 
expired, the carrying value of the licence is written off through profit or loss.

The exploration licence costs are initially recognised as cost and subsequently amortised on a straight-line based on the economic life.

Exploration and evaluation expenditures

iii. 
Geological and geophysical exploration costs are charged to profit or loss as incurred.

Exploration and evaluation expenditures incurred by the entity are accumulated separately for each area of interest. Such expenditures 
comprise net direct costs and an appropriate portion of related overhead expenditure, but do not include general overheads or administrative 
expenditure that is not directly related to a particular area of interest. Each area of interest is limited to a size related to a known or probable 
hydrocarbon resource capable of supporting an oil operation.

Costs directly associated with an exploration well, exploratory stratigraphic test well and delineation wells are temporarily suspended 
(capitalised) until the drilling of the well is complete and the results have been evaluated. These costs include employee remuneration, 
materials and fuel used, rig costs, delay rentals and payments made to contractors. If hydrocarbons (‘proved reserves’) are not found,  
the exploration expenditure is written off as a dry hole and charged to profit or loss. If hydrocarbons are found, the costs continue  
to be capitalised. 

Suspended exploration and evaluation expenditure in relation to each area of interest is carried forward as an asset provided that one of the 
following conditions is met:

• the costs are expected to be recouped through successful development and exploitation of the area of interest or alternatively, by its sale; 

• exploration and/or evaluation activities in the area of interest have not, at the reporting date, reached a stage which permits a reasonable 

assessment of the existence or otherwise of economically recoverable reserves; and

• active and significant operations in, or in relation to, the area of interest. 

Exploration and/or evaluation expenditures which fail to meet at least one of the conditions outlined above are written off. In the event that an 
area is subsequently abandoned, or exploration activities do not lead to the discovery of proved or probable reserves, or if the Directors 
consider the expenditure to be of no value, any accumulated costs carried forward relating to the specified areas of interest are written off in 
the year in which the decision is made. While an area of interest is in the development phase, amortisation of development costs is not 
charged pending the commencement of production. Exploration and evaluation costs are transferred from the exploration and/or evaluation 
phase to the development phase upon commitment to a commercial development.

Development expenditures

iv. 
Development expenditure incurred by the entity is accumulated separately for each area of interest in which economically recoverable 
reserves have been identified to the satisfaction of the Directors. Such expenditure comprises net direct costs and, in the same manner as for 
exploration and evaluation expenditure, an appropriate portion of related overhead expenditure directly related to the development property. 
All expenditure incurred prior to the commencement of commercial levels of production from each development property is carried forward to 
the extent to which recoupment is expected to be derived from the sale of production from the relevant development property.

3.9  Revenue recognition (IFRS 15)
IFRS 15 uses a five-step model for recognising revenue to depict transfer of goods or services. The model distinguishes between promises to 
a customer that are satisfied at a point in time and those that are satisfied over time.

It is the Company’s policy to recognise revenue from a contract when it has been approved by both parties, rights have been clearly identified, 
payment terms have been defined, the contract has commercial substance, and collectability has been ascertained as probable. 
Collectability of a customer’s payments is ascertained based on the customer’s historical records, guarantees provided, the customer’s 
industry and advance payments made if any.

Revenue is recognised when control of goods sold has been transferred. Control of an asset refers to the ability to direct the use of and obtain 

246

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020substantially all of the remaining benefits (potential cash inflows or savings in cash outflows) associated with the asset. For crude oil, this 
occurs when the crude products are lifted by the customer (buyer) Free on Board at the Company’s loading facility. Revenue from the sale of 
oil is recognised at a point in time when performance obligation is satisfied. For gas, revenue is recognised when the product passes through 
the custody transfer point to the customer. Revenue from the sale of gas is recognised over time using the practical expedient of the  
right to invoice.

The surplus or deficit of the product sold during the period over the Company’s share of production is termed as an overlift or underlift. With 
regard to underlifts, if the over-lifter does not meet the definition of a customer or the settlement of the transaction is non-monetary, a 
receivable and other income is recognised. Conversely, when an overlift occurs, cost of sale is debited, and a corresponding liability is 
accrued. Overlifts and underlifts are initially measured at the market price of oil at the date of lifting, consistent with the measurement of the 
sale and purchase. Subsequently, they are remeasured at the current market value. The change arising from this remeasurement is included 
in the profit or loss as other income/expenses-net.

Definition of a customer
A customer is a party that has contracted with the Company to obtain crude oil or gas products in exchange for a consideration, rather than to 
share in the risks and benefits that result from sale. The Company has entered into collaborative arrangements with its joint venture partners 
to share in the production of oil. Collaborative arrangements with its joint venture partners to share in the production of oil are accounted for 
differently from arrangements with customers as collaborators share in the risks and benefits of the transaction, and therefore, do not meet 
the definition of customers. Revenue arising from these arrangements are recognised separately in other income.

Contract enforceability and termination clauses
It is the Company’s policy to assess that the defined criteria for establishing contracts that entail enforceable rights and obligations are met. 
The criteria provide that the contract has been approved by both parties, rights have been clearly identified, payment terms have been 
defined, the contract has commercial substance, and collectability has been ascertained as probable. Revenue is not recognised for 
contracts that do not create enforceable rights and obligations to parties in a contract. The Company also does not recognise revenue for 
contracts that do not meet the revenue recognition criteria. In such cases where consideration is received it recognises a contract liability  
and only recognises revenue when the contract is terminated.

The Company may also have the unilateral rights to terminate an unperformed contract without compensating the other party. This could 
occur where the Company has not yet transferred any promised goods or services to the customer and the Company has not yet received,  
and is not yet entitled to receive, any consideration in exchange for promised goods or services.

Identification of performance obligation
At inception, the Company assesses the goods or services promised in the contract with a customer to identify as a performance obligation, 
each promise to transfer to the customer either a distinct good or series of distinct goods. The number of identified performance obligations 
in a contract will depend on the number of promises made to the customer. The delivery of barrels of crude oil or units of gas are usually the 
only performance obligation included in oil and gas contracts with no additional contractual promises. Additional performance obligations 
may arise from future contracts with the Company and its customers.

The identification of performance obligations is a crucial part in determining the amount of consideration recognised as revenue. This is due 
to the fact that revenue is only recognised at the point where the performance obligation is fulfilled, Management has therefore developed 
adequate measures to ensure that all contractual promises are appropriately considered and accounted for accordingly.

Transaction price
Transaction price is the amount allocated to the performance obligations identified in the contract. It represents the amount of revenue 
recognised as those performance obligations are satisfied. Complexities may arise where a contract includes variable consideration, 
significant financing component or consideration payable to a customer.

Variable consideration not within the Company’s control is estimated at the point of revenue recognition and reassessed periodically. The 
estimated amount is included in the transaction price to the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal of the amount of 
cumulative revenue recognised will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is subsequently resolved.  
As a practical expedient, where the Company has a right to consideration from a customer in an amount that corresponds directly with the 
value to the customer of the Company’s performance completed to date, the Company may recognise revenue in the amount to which it has  
a right to invoice.

Significant financing component (SFC) assessment is carried out (using a discount rate that reflects the amount charged in a separate 
financing transaction with the customer and also considering the Company’s incremental borrowing rate) on contracts that have a repayment 
period of more than 12 months.

As a practical expedient, the Company does not adjust the promised amount of consideration for the effects of a significant financing 
component if it expects, at contract inception, that the period between when it transfers a promised good or service to a customer and when 
the customer pays for that good or service will be one year or less.

Instances when SFC assessment may be carried out include where the Company receives advance payment for agreed volumes of crude oil or 
receives take or pay deficiency payment on gas sales. A take or pay gas sales contract ideally provides that the customer must sometimes pay 
for gas even when not delivered to the customer. The customer, in future contract years, takes delivery of the product without further 
payment. The portion of advance payments that represents significant financing component will be recognised as interest expense.

Consideration payable to a customer is accounted for as a reduction of the transaction price and, therefore, of revenue unless the payment to 
the customer is in exchange for a distinct good or service that the customer transfers to the Company. Examples include barging costs 
incurred, demurrage and freight costs. These do not represent a distinct service transferred and is therefore recognised as a direct deduction 
from revenue.

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3.9  Revenue recognition (IFRS 15) continued

Breakage
The Company enters into take or pay contracts for sale of gas where the buyer may not ultimately exercise all of their rights to the gas. The 
take or pay quantity not taken is paid for by the buyer called take or pay deficiency payment. The Company assesses if there is a reasonable 
assurance that it will be entitled to a breakage amount. Where it establishes that a reasonable assurance exists, it recognises the expected 
breakage amount as revenue in proportion to the pattern of rights exercised by the customer. However, where the Company is not reasonably 
assured of a breakage amount, it would only recognise the expected breakage amount as revenue when the likelihood of the customer 
exercising its remaining rights becomes remote.

Contract modification and contract combination
Contract modifications relate to a change in the price and/or scope of an approved contract. Where there is a contract modification, the 
Company assesses if the modification will create a new contract or change the existing enforceable rights and obligations of the parties to the 
original contract.

Contract modifications are treated as new contracts when the performance obligations are separately identifiable and transaction price 
reflects the standalone selling price of the crude oil or the gas to be sold. Revenue is adjusted prospectively when the crude oil or gas 
transferred is separately identifiable and the price does not reflect the standalone selling price. Conversely, if there are remaining 
performance obligations which are not separately identifiable, revenue will be recognised on a cumulative catch-up basis when crude oil or 
gas is transferred.

The Company combines contracts entered into at near the same time (less than 12 months) as one contract if they are entered into with the 
same or related party customer, the performance obligations are the same for the contracts and the price of one contract depends on the 
other contract.

Portfolio expedients
As a practical expedient, the Company may apply the requirements of IFRS 15 to a portfolio of contracts (or performance obligations) with 
similar characteristics if it expects that the effect on the financial statements would not be materially different from applying IFRS to 
individual contracts within that portfolio.

Contract assets and liabilities
The Company recognises contract assets for unbilled amounts from crude oil and gas sales. Contract liability is recognised for consideration 
received for which performance obligation has not been met.

3.10  Property, plant and equipment
Oil and gas properties and other plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses.

The initial cost of an asset comprises its purchase price or construction cost, any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset into 
operation, the initial estimate of any decommissioning obligation and, for qualifying assets, borrowing costs. The purchase price or 
construction cost is the aggregate amount paid and the fair value of any other consideration given to acquire the asset. Where parts of an item 
of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment.

Expenditure on major maintenance refits or repairs comprises the cost of replacement assets or parts of assets, inspection costs and 
overhaul costs. Where an asset or part of an asset that was separately depreciated and is now written off is replaced and it is probable that 
future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the entity, the expenditure is capitalised. Inspection costs associated with 
major maintenance programmes are capitalised and amortised over the period to the next inspection. Overhaul costs for major maintenance 
programmes are capitalised as incurred as long as these costs increase the efficiency of the unit or extend the useful life of the asset. All 
other maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.

Depreciation
Production and field facilities are depreciated on a unit-of-production basis over the estimated proved developed reserves. Assets under 
construction are not depreciated. Other property, plant and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful 
lives. Depreciation commences when an asset is available for use. The depreciation rate for each class is as follows:

Plant and machinery

Motor vehicles

Office furniture and IT equipment

Building

Land

Intangible assets

Leasehold improvements

20%

25%-30%

10%-33.33%

4%

–

5%

Over the unexpired portion of the lease

The expected useful lives and residual values of property, plant and equipment are reviewed on an annual basis and, if necessary, changes in 
useful lives are accounted for prospectively.

Gains or losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment are determined as the difference between disposal proceeds and carrying 
amount of the disposed assets. These gains or losses are included in profit or loss.

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Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.11  Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily 
take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets 
are substantially ready for their intended use or sale. 

Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs incurred in connection with the borrowing of funds. These costs may arise from: specific 
borrowings used for the purpose of financing the construction of a qualifying asset, and those that arise from general borrowings that would 
have been avoided if the expenditure on the qualifying asset had not been made. The general borrowing costs attributable to an asset’s 
construction is calculated by reference to the weighted average cost of general borrowings that are outstanding during the period.

Investment income earned on the temporary investment of specific borrowings pending their expenditure on the qualifying assets is 
deducted from the borrowing costs eligible for capitalisation. All other borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss in the period in which 
they are incurred.

3.12  Finance income and costs
Finance income 
Finance income is recognised in the statement of profit or loss as it accrues using the effective interest rate (EIR), which is the rate that 
exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where 
appropriate, to the amortised cost of the financial instrument. The determination of finance income takes into account all contractual terms 
of the financial instrument as well as any fees or incremental costs that are directly attributable to the instrument and are an integral part of 
the effective interest rate (EIR), but not future credit losses.

Finance cost 
Finance costs includes borrowing costs, interest expense calculated using the effective interest rate method, finance charges in respect of 
lease liabilities, the unwinding of the effect of discounting provisions, and the amortisation of discounts and premiums on debt instruments 
that are liabilities.

Impairment of non-financial assets

3.13 
Intangible assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently. 
Other non-financial assets are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may 
not be recoverable. Individual assets are grouped for impairment assessment purposes at the lowest level at which there are identifiable cash 
flows that are largely independent of the cash flows of other groups of assets. This should be at a level not higher than an operating segment. 

If any such indication of impairment exists or when annual impairment testing for an asset group is required, the entity makes an estimate of 
its recoverable amount. Such indicators include changes in the Company’s business plans, changes in commodity prices, evidence of physical 
damage and, for oil and gas properties, significant downward revisions of estimated recoverable volumes or increases in estimated future 
development expenditure.

The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal (FVLCD) and value in use (VIU). The recoverable amount is 
determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or 
group of assets, in which case, the asset is tested as part of a larger cash-generating unit to which it belongs. Where the carrying amount of 
an asset group exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset group is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. 

Non-financial assets that suffered an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at the end of each reporting period.

In calculating VIU, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current 
market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset/CGU. In determining FVLCD, recent market transactions 
are taken into account. If no such transactions can be identified, an appropriate valuation model is used. These calculations are corroborated 
by valuation multiples, quoted share prices for publicly traded companies or other available fair value indicators.

Impairment – exploration and evaluation assets
Exploration and evaluation assets are tested for impairment once commercial reserves are found before they are transferred to oil and gas 
assets, or whenever facts and circumstances indicate impairment. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the exploration 
and evaluation assets’ carrying amount exceeds their recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of the exploration and 
evaluation assets’ fair value less costs to sell and their value in use.

Impairment – proved oil and gas production properties 
Proven oil and gas properties are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount 
may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable 
amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use. For the purposes of assessing 
impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows.

3.14  Cash and bank balances
Cash and bank balances in the statement of cash flows comprise cash at banks and at hand and short-term deposits with an original 
maturity of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of change 
in value.

Inventories

3.15 
Inventories represent the value of tubulars, casings and wellheads. These are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is 
determined using the invoice value and all other directly attributable costs to bringing the inventory to the point of use determined on a first in 
first out basis. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and 
the estimated cost necessary to make the sale. 

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3.16  Financial instruments
IFRS 9 provides guidance on the recognition, classification and measurement of financial assets and financial liabilities; derecognition of 
financial instruments; impairment of financial assets and hedge accounting. IFRS 9 also significantly amends other standards dealing with 
financial instruments such as IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures.

Classification and measurement

a. 
Financial assets
It is the Company’s policy to initially recognise financial assets at fair value plus transaction costs, except in the case of financial assets 
recorded at fair value through profit or loss which are expensed in profit or loss.

Classification and subsequent measurement are dependent on the Company’s business model for managing the asset and the cash flow 
characteristics of the asset. On this basis, the Company may classify its financial instruments at amortised cost, fair value through profit or 
loss and at fair value through other comprehensive income.

All the Company’s financial assets as at 31 December 2020 satisfy the conditions for classification at amortised cost under IFRS 9 except for 
derivatives which are reclassified at fair value through profit or loss.

The Company’s financial assets include trade receivables, NPDC receivables, intercompany receivables, other receivables, cash and bank 
balances and derivatives. They are included in current assets, except for maturities greater than 12 months after the reporting date. Interest 
income from these assets is included in finance income using the effective interest rate method. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition is 
recognised directly in profit or loss and presented in finance income/cost.

Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities of the Company are classified and measured at fair value on initial recognition and subsequently at amortised cost net of 
directly attributable transaction costs, except for derivatives which are classified and subsequently recognised at fair value through profit 
or loss.

Fair value gains or losses for financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss are accounted for in profit or loss except for the 
amount of change that is attributable to changes in the Company’s own credit risk which is presented in other comprehensive income. The 
remaining amount of change in the fair value of the liability is presented in profit or loss. The Company’s financial liabilities include trade and 
other payables and interest-bearing loans and borrowings.

Impairment of financial assets

b. 
Recognition of impairment provisions under IFRS 9 is based on the expected credit loss (ECL) model. The ECL model is applicable to financial 
assets classified at amortised cost and contract assets under IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The measurement of ECL 
reflects an unbiased and probability-weighted amount that is determined by evaluating a range of possible outcomes, time value of money 
and reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort at the reporting date, about past events, current 
conditions and forecasts of future economic conditions.

The Company applies the simplified approach or the three-stage general approach to determine impairment of receivables depending on 
their respective nature. The simplified approach is applied for trade receivables and contract assets while the general approach is applied to 
NPDC receivables, other receivables, intercompany receivables and cash and bank balances.

The simplified approach requires expected lifetime losses to be recognised from initial recognition of the receivables. This involves 
determining the expected loss rates using a provision matrix that is based on the Company’s historical default rates observed over the 
expected life of the receivable and adjusted forward-looking estimates. This is then applied to the gross carrying amount of the receivable to 
arrive at the loss allowance for the period.

The three-stage approach assesses impairment based on changes in credit risk since initial recognition using the past due criterion and other 
qualitative indicators such as increase in political concerns or other macroeconomic factors and the risk of legal action, sanction or other 
regulatory penalties that may impair future financial performance. Financial assets classified as stage 1 have their ECL measured as a 
proportion of their lifetime ECL that results from possible default events that can occur within one year, while assets in stage 2 or 3 have their 
ECL measured on a lifetime basis.

Under the three-stage approach, the ECL is determined by projecting the probability of default (PD), loss given default (LGD) and exposure at 
default (EAD) for each ageing bucket and for each individual exposure. The PD is based on default rates determined by external rating 
agencies for the counterparties. The LGD is determined based on management’s estimate of expected cash recoveries after considering the 
historical pattern of the receivable, and it assesses the portion of the outstanding receivable that is deemed to be irrecoverable at the 
reporting period. The EAD is the total amount of outstanding receivable at the reporting period. These three components are multiplied 
together and adjusted for forward-looking information, such as the gross domestic product (GDP) in Nigeria and crude oil prices, to arrive at 
an ECL which is then discounted back to the reporting date and summed. The discount rate used in the ECL calculation is the original effective 
interest rate or an approximation thereof.

Loss allowances for financial assets measured at amortised cost are deducted from the gross carrying amount of the related financial assets 
and the amount of the loss is recognised in profit or loss.

Significant increase in credit risk and default definition

c. 
The Company assesses the credit risk of its financial assets based on the information obtained during periodic review of publicly available 
information, industry trends and payment records. Based on the analysis of the information provided, the Company identifies the assets that 
require close monitoring.

Furthermore, financial assets that have been identified to be more than 30 days past due on contractual payments are assessed to have 
experienced significant increase in credit risk. These assets are grouped as part of Stage 2 financial assets where the three-stage approach 
is applied.

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Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020In line with the Company’s credit risk management practices, a financial asset is defined to be in default when contractual payments have not 
been received at least 90 days after the contractual payment period. Subsequent to default, the Company carries out active recovery 
strategies to recover all outstanding payments due on receivables. Where the Company determines that there are no realistic prospects of 
recovery, the financial asset and any related loss allowance are written off either partially or in full.

Write-off policy

d. 
The Company writes off financial assets, in whole or in part, when it has exhausted all practical recovery efforts and has concluded that there 
is no reasonable expectation of recovery. Indicators that there is no reasonable expectation of recovery include:

• ceasing enforcement activity; and

• where the Company's recovery method is foreclosing on collateral and the value of the collateral is such that there is no reasonable 

expectation of recovering in full.

The Company may write off financial assets that are still subject to enforcement activity. The outstanding contractual amounts of such 
assets written off during the year ended 31 December 2020 was Nil (2019: ₦14 billion, $48 million). The Company seeks to recover amounts  
it is legally owed in full but which have been partially written off due to no reasonable expectation of full recovery.

Derecognition

e. 
Financial assets
The Company derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire or when it transfers 
the financial asset and the transfer qualifies for derecognition. Gains or losses on derecognition of financial assets are recognised as finance 
income/cost.

Financial liabilities
The Company derecognises a financial liability when it is extinguished i.e. when the obligation specified in the contract is discharged or 
cancelled or expires. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the 
terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as a derecognition of the original liability 
and the recognition of a new liability. The difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognised immediately in the statement of profit 
or  loss.

Modification

f. 
When the contractual cash flows of a financial instrument are renegotiated or otherwise modified and the renegotiation or modification does 
not result in the derecognition of that financial instrument, the Company recalculates the gross carrying amount of the financial instrument 
and recognises a modification gain or loss immediately within finance income/(cost)-net at the date of the modification. The gross carrying 
amount of the financial instrument is recalculated as the present value of the renegotiated or modified contractual cash flows that are 
discounted at the financial instrument’s original effective interest rate.

Offsetting of financial assets and financial liabilities

g. 
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, and the net amount is reported in the statement of financial position. Offsetting can be applied 
when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts, and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realise the asset 
and settle the liability simultaneously.

The legally enforceable right is not contingent on future events and is enforceable in the normal course of business, and in the event of 
default, insolvency or bankruptcy of the Company or the counterparty.

Derivatives

h. 
The Company uses derivative financial instruments such as forward exchange contracts to hedge its foreign exchange, risks as well as put 
options to hedge against its oil price risk. However, such contracts are not accounted for as designated hedges. Derivatives are initially 
recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and subsequently remeasured to their fair value at the end of each 
reporting period. Any gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognised within operating profit in profit or loss 
for the period.

The Company accounts for financial assets with embedded derivatives (hybrid instruments) in their entirety on the basis of its contractual 
cash flow features and the business model within which they are held, thereby eliminating the complexity of bifurcation for financial 
assets. For financial liabilities, hybrid instruments are bifurcated into hosts and embedded features. In these cases, the Company measures 
the host contract at amortised cost and the embedded features is measured at fair value through profit or loss.

For the purpose of the maturity analysis, embedded derivatives included in hybrid financial instruments are not separated. The hybrid 
instrument, in its entirety, is included in the maturity analysis for non-derivative financial liabilities.

Fair value of financial instruments 

i. 
The fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market 
participants at the measurement date. When available, the Company measures the fair value of an instrument using quoted prices in an 
active market for that instrument. A market is regarded as active if quoted prices are readily available and represent actual and regularly 
occurring market transactions on an arm’s length basis.

If a market for a financial instrument is not active, the Company establishes fair value using valuation techniques. Valuation techniques 
include using recent arm’s length transactions between knowledgeable, willing parties (if available), reference to the current fair value of 
other instruments that are substantially the same, and discounted cash flow analysis. The chosen valuation technique makes maximum use 
of market inputs, relies as little as possible on estimates specific to the Company, incorporates all factors that market participants would 
consider in setting a price, and is consistent with accepted economic methodologies for pricing financial instruments.

Inputs to valuation techniques reasonably represent market expectations and measure the risk-return factors inherent in the financial 
instrument. The Company calibrates valuation techniques and tests them for validity using prices from observable current market 
transactions in the same instrument or based on other available observable market data.

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Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.  Summary of significant accounting policies continued

3.16  Financial instruments continued
i. 

Fair value of financial instruments continued

The best evidence of the fair value of a financial instrument at initial recognition is the transaction price – i.e. the fair value of the 
consideration given or received. However, in some cases, the fair value of a financial instrument on initial recognition may be different to its 
transaction price. If such fair value is evidenced by comparison with other observable current market transactions in the same instrument 
(without modification or repackaging) or based on a valuation technique whose variables include only data from observable markets, then the 
difference is recognised in the income statement on initial recognition of the instrument. In other cases, the difference is not recognised in 
the income statement immediately but is recognised over the life of the instrument on an appropriate basis or when the instrument is 
redeemed, transferred or sold, or the fair value becomes observable.

3.17  Share capital
On issue of ordinary shares any consideration received net of any directly attributable transaction costs is included in equity. Issued  
share capital has been translated at the exchange rate prevailing at the date of the transaction and is not retranslated subsequent  
to initial recognition.

3.18  Earnings per share and dividends 
Basic EPS
Basic earnings per share is calculated on the Company’s profit or loss after taxation and on the basis of weighted average of issued and fully 
paid ordinary shares at the end of the year.

Diluted EPS
Diluted EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss after taxation by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during 
the year plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that would be issued on conversion of all the dilutive potential ordinary shares 
(after adjusting for outstanding share options arising from the share-based payment scheme) into ordinary shares.

Dividend
Dividends on ordinary shares are recognised as a liability in the period in which they are approved.

3.19  Post-employment benefits
Defined contribution scheme
The Company contributes to a defined contribution scheme for its employees in compliance with the provisions of the Pension Reform Act 
2014. The scheme is fully funded and is managed by licensed Pension Fund Administrators. Membership of the scheme is automatic upon 
commencement of duties at the Company. The Company’s contributions to the defined contribution scheme are charged to the profit and loss 
account in the year to which they relate.

Employee benefits are all forms of consideration given by an entity in exchange for service rendered by employees or for the termination of 
employment. The Company operates a defined contribution plan and it is accounted for based on IAS 19 Employee benefits.

Defined contribution plans are post-employment benefit plans under which an entity pays fixed contributions into a separate entity (a fund) 
and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employee 
benefits relating to employee service in the current and prior periods. Under defined contribution plans the entity’s legal or constructive 
obligation is limited to the amount that it agrees to contribute to the fund. 

Thus, the amount of the post-employment benefits received by the employee is determined by the amount of contributions paid by an entity 
(and perhaps also the employee) to a post-employment benefit plan or to an insurance company, together with investment returns arising 
from the contributions. In consequence, actuarial risk (that benefits will be less than expected) and investment risk (that assets invested will 
be insufficient to meet expected benefits) fall, in substance, on the employee.

Defined benefit scheme
The Company operates a defined benefit gratuity plan, which requires contributions to be made to a separately administered fund. The 
Company also provides certain additional post-employment benefits to employees. These benefits are unfunded. 

The cost of providing benefits under the defined benefit plan is determined using the projected unit credit method and calculated annually by 
independent actuaries. The liability or asset recognised in the statement of financial position in respect of the defined benefit plan is the 
present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end of the reporting period less the fair value of plan assets (if any). The present value of 
the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using government bonds.

Remeasurements gains and losses, arising from changes in financial and demographic assumptions and experience adjustments, are 
recognised immediately in the statement of financial position with a corresponding debit or credit to retained earnings through other 
comprehensive income in the period in which they occur. Remeasurements are not reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods.

Past service costs are recognised in profit or loss on the earlier of:

• the date of the plan amendment or curtailment; and

• the date that the Company recognises related restructuring costs.

Net interest is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit obligation and the fair value of the plan assets.

The Company recognises the following changes in the net defined benefit obligation under employee benefit expenses in general and 
administrative expenses:

• Service costs comprises current service costs, past-service costs, gains and losses on curtailments and non-routine settlements.

• Net interest cost.

252

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.20  Provisions
Provisions are recognised when (i) the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; (ii) it is probable that 
an outflow of economic resources will be required to settle the obligation as a whole; and (iii) the amount can be reliably estimated. Provisions 
are not recognised for future operating losses.

In measuring the provision:

• risks and uncertainties are taken into account;

• the provisions are discounted (where the effects of the time value of money is considered to be material) using a pre-tax rate that is 

reflective of current market assessments of the time value of money and the risk specific to the liability;

• when discounting is used, the increase of the provision over time is recognised as interest expense;

• future events such as changes in law and technology, are taken into account where there is subjective audit evidence that they will occur; 

and

• gains from expected disposal of assets are not taken into account, even if the expected disposal is closely linked to the event giving rise to 

the provision.

• Decommissioning

Liabilities for decommissioning costs are recognised as a result of the constructive obligation of past practice in the oil and gas industry, 
when it is probable that an outflow of economic resources will be required to settle the liability and a reliable estimate can be made. The 
estimated costs, based on current requirements, technology and price levels, prevailing at the reporting date, are computed based on the 
latest assumptions as to the scope and method of abandonment. 

Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimates of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at 
the end of the reporting period. The discount rate used to determine the present value is a pre-tax rate that reflects current market 
assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability. The increase in the provision due to the passage of time is 
recognised as a finance cost. The corresponding amount is capitalised as part of the oil and gas properties and is amortised on a unit-of-
production basis as part of the depreciation, depletion and amortisation charge. Any adjustment arising from the estimated cost of the 
restoration and abandonment cost is capitalised, while the charge arising from the accretion of the discount applied to the expected 
expenditure is treated as a component of finance costs.

If the change in estimate results in an increase in the decommissioning provision and, therefore, an addition to the carrying value of the asset, 
the Company considers whether this is an indication of impairment of the asset as a whole, and if so, tests for impairment in accordance with 
IAS 36. If, for mature fields, the revised oil and gas assets net of decommissioning provisions exceed the recoverable value, that portion of the 
increase is charged directly to expense.

3.21  Contingencies
A contingent asset or contingent liability is a possible asset or obligation that arises from past events and whose existence will be confirmed 
by the occurrence or non-occurrence of uncertain future events. The assessment of the existence of the contingencies will involve 
management judgement regarding the outcome of future events.

Income taxation
Current income tax

3.22 
i. 
The income tax expense or credit for the period is the tax payable on the current period’s taxable income, based on the applicable income tax 
rate for each jurisdiction, adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary differences and to unused tax 
losses. The current income tax charge is calculated based on the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period 
in the countries where the Company and its subsidiaries and associates operate and generate taxable income. Management periodically 
evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation. It establishes 
provisions, where appropriate, based on amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

Deferred tax

ii. 
Deferred income tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and 
liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been 
enacted or substantially enacted by the end of the reporting period and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is 
realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred tax assets are recognised only if it is probable that future taxable amounts will be available to utilise those temporary differences 
and losses. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets and liabilities 
and where the deferred tax balances relate to the same taxation authority.

Current tax assets and tax liabilities are offset where the entity has a legally enforceable right to offset and intends either to settle on a net 
basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. Current and deferred tax is recognised in profit or loss, except to the 
extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case, the tax is also recognised in other 
comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

Uncertainty over income tax treatments

iii. 
The Company examines where there is an uncertainty regarding the treatment of an item, including taxable profit or loss, the tax bases of 
assets and liabilities, tax losses and credits and tax rates. It considers each uncertain tax treatment separately, depending on which 
approach better predicts the resolution of the uncertainty. The factors it considers include:

• how it prepares and supports the tax treatment; and

• the approach that it expects the tax authority to take during an examination.

253

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20203.  Summary of significant accounting policies continued

3.22 
iii. 

Income taxation continued
Uncertainty over income tax treatments continued

If the Company concludes that it is probable that the tax authority will accept an uncertain tax treatment that has been taken or is expected 
to be taken on a tax return, it determines the accounting for income taxes consistently with that tax treatment. If it concludes that it is not 
probable that the treatment will be accepted, it reflects the effect of the uncertainty in its income tax accounting in the period in which that 
determination is made (for example, by recognising an additional tax liability or applying a higher tax rate).

The Company measures the impact of the uncertainty using methods that best predict the resolution of the uncertainty. The Company uses 
the most likely method where there are two possible outcomes, and the expected value method when there are a range of possible outcomes.

The Company assumes that the tax authority with the right to examine and challenge tax treatments will examine those treatments and have 
full knowledge of all related information. As a result, it does not consider detection risk in the recognition and measurement of uncertain tax 
treatments. The Company applies consistent judgements and estimates on current and deferred taxes. Changes in tax laws or the presence 
of new tax information by the tax authority is treated as a change in estimate in line with IAS 8 Accounting policies, changes in accounting 
estimates and errors. 

Judgements and estimates made to recognise and measure the effect of uncertain tax treatments are reassessed whenever circumstances 
change or when there is new information that affects those judgements. New information might include actions by the tax authority, evidence 
that the tax authority has taken a particular position in connection with a similar item, or the expiry of the tax authority’s right to examine a 
particular tax treatment. The absence of any comment from the tax authority is unlikely to be, in isolation, a change in circumstances or new 
information that would lead to a change in estimate.

3.23  Share-based payments
Employees (including senior executives) of the Company receive remuneration in the form of share-based payments, whereby employees 
render services as consideration for equity instruments (equity-settled transactions).

Equity-settled transactions

i. 
The cost of equity-settled transactions is determined by the fair value at the date when the grant is made using an appropriate 
valuation model.

That cost is recognised in employee benefits expense together with a corresponding increase in equity (share-based payment reserve), over 
the period in which the service and, where applicable, the performance conditions are fulfilled (the vesting period). The cumulative expense 
recognised for equity-settled transactions at each reporting date until the vesting date reflects the extent to which the vesting period has 
expired and the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately vest. The expense or credit in profit or loss 
for a period represents the movement in cumulative expense recognised as at the beginning and end of that period.

Service and non-market performance conditions are not taken into account when determining the grant date and for fair value of awards, but 
the likelihood of the conditions being met is assessed as part of the Company’s best estimate of the number of equity instruments that will 
ultimately vest. Market performance conditions are reflected within the grant date fair value. Any other conditions attached to an award, but 
without an associated service requirement, are considered to be non-vesting conditions. Non-vesting conditions are reflected in the fair value 
of an award and lead to an immediate expensing of an award unless there are also service and/or performance conditions.

No expense is recognised for awards that do not ultimately vest because non-market performance and/or service conditions have not been 
met. Where awards include a market or non-vesting condition, the transactions are treated as vested irrespective of whether the market or 
non-vesting condition is satisfied, provided that all other performance and/or service conditions are satisfied. When the terms of an 
equity-settled award are modified, the minimum expense recognised is the grant date fair value of the unmodified award, provided the 
original terms of the award are met. An additional expense, measured as at the date of modification, is recognised for any modification that 
increases the total fair value of the share-based payment transaction, or is otherwise beneficial to the employee. Where an award is cancelled 
by the entity or by the counterparty, any remaining element of the fair value of the award is expensed immediately through profit or loss. The 
dilutive effect of outstanding awards is reflected as additional share dilution in the computation of diluted earnings per share.

4.  Significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions

The preparation of the Company’s historical financial information requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions 
that affect the reported amounts of revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities, and the accompanying disclosures, and the disclosure of 
contingent liabilities. Uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in outcomes that require a material adjustment to the 
carrying amount of assets or liabilities affected in future periods.

Judgements

4.1 
In the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies, management has made the following judgements, which have the most 
significant effect on the amounts recognised in the historical financial information:

Foreign currency translation reserve

i. 
The Company has used the CBN rate to translate its dollar currency to its Naira presentation currency. Management has determined that this 
rate is available for immediate delivery. If the rate used was 10% higher or lower, revenue in Naira would have increased/decreased by Nil 
(2019: ₦20.1 billion). See Note 45 for the applicable translation rate.

Group re-organisation

ii. 
On 1 January 2020, the Company’s operations were restructured with the transfer of OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 from the Company to Seplat 
West Limited. Management determined that this was a Group reorganisation involving entities under common control, as Seplat Petroleum 
Development Company Plc retained control of the Group before and after the reorganisation. See Note 31 for a summary of assets and 
liabilities transferred to Seplat West Limited.

254

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20205.  Estimates and assumptions

The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date that have a significant risk 
of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are described below. The 
Company based its assumptions and estimates on parameters available when the financial statements were prepared. Existing 
circumstances and assumptions about future developments may change due to market changes or circumstances arising that are  
beyond the control of the Company. Such changes are reflected in the assumptions when they occur.

Share-based payment reserve

i. 
Estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions requires determination of the most appropriate valuation model, which depends 
on the terms and conditions of the grant. This estimate also requires determination of the most appropriate inputs to the valuation model 
including the expected life of the share award or appreciation right, volatility and dividend yield and making assumptions about them. The 
Company measures the fair value of equity-settled transactions with employees at the grant date. The assumptions and models used for 
estimating fair value for share-based payment transactions are disclosed in Note 28.

The Company makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal 
the related actual results. Such estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other 
factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

Useful life of other property, plant and equipment

ii. 
The Company recognises depreciation on other property, plant and equipment on a straight-line basis in order to write off the cost of the 
asset over its expected useful life. The economic life of an asset is determined based on existing wear and tear, economic and technical 
ageing, legal and other limits on the use of the asset, and obsolescence. If some of these factors were to deteriorate materially, impairing the 
ability of the asset to generate future cash flow, the Company may accelerate depreciation charges to reflect the remaining useful life of the 
asset or record an impairment loss.

Income taxes 

iii. 
The Company is subject to income taxes by the Nigerian tax authority, which does not require significant judgement in terms of provision for 
income taxes, but a certain level of judgement is required for recognition of deferred tax assets. Management is required to assess the ability 
of the Company to generate future taxable economic earnings that will be used to recover all deferred tax assets. Assumptions about the 
generation of future taxable profits depend on management’s estimates of future cash flows. The estimates are based on the future cash 
flow from operations taking into consideration the oil and gas prices, volumes produced, operational and capital expenditure.

6. 

Financial risk management

 Financial risk factors

6.1 
The Company’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks such as market risk (including foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk and 
commodity price risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Company’s risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of financial 
markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Company’s financial performance. 

Risk management is carried out by the treasury department under policies approved by the Board of Directors. The Board provides written 
principles for overall risk management, as well as written policies covering specific areas, such as foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, 
credit risk and investment of excess liquidity.

Risk

Exposure arising from

Measurement

Management

Market risk – foreign exchange

Market risk – interest rate
Market risk – commodity prices

Credit risk

Liquidity risk

Future commercial transactions
Recognised financial assets and 
liabilities not denominated in 
US dollars
Interest-bearing loans and 
borrowings at variable rate
Future sales transactions
Trade receivables, cash and 
bank balances

Cash flow forecasting
Sensitivity analysis

Sensitivity analysis
Sensitivity analysis
Aging analysis
Credit ratings

Borrowings and other liabilities

Rolling cash flow forecasts

Match and settle foreign 
denominated cash inflows with 
foreign denominated cash outflows

Review refinancing opportunities
Oil price hedges
Diversification of bank deposits 
and credit limits
Availability of committed credit 
lines and borrowing facilities

6.1.1  Market risk
Market risk is the risk of loss that may arise from changes in market factors such as commodity prices, interest rates  
and foreign exchange rates.

Commodity price risk

i. 
The Company was exposed to the risk of fluctuations on crude oil prices. The uncertainty around the rate at which oil prices increase or 
decline led to the Company’s decision to enter into an option contract to insure the Company’s revenue against adverse oil price movements.

Crude hedge
On 28 June and 19 December 2019, the Company entered an economic crude oil hedge contracts with Standard Chartered Bank and J.P 
Morgan Bank respectively. Strike price of ₦13,815 ($45/bbl.) for 3 million barrels at an average premium price of ₦338 ($1.1/bbl.) was agreed at 
the contract dates. 

During the year, the Company transferred its crude oil hedge contract to Seplat West Limited; hence, there were no economic crude hedge 
contracts for the year 2020.

255

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.1.1  Market Risk continued
i. 
Crude hedge continued

Commodity price risk continued

The maturity of the commodity options the Company holds in 2019 comparative year is shown in the table below:

As at 31 December 2019
Crude oil hedges Volume barrels (bbl.)

1,500,000

1,500,000

–

3,000,000

308

1,002

Less than 6 
months 

6 to 9  
months

9 to 12  
months

Total

Fair value
₦ million

Fair value
$’000

The following table summarises the impact of the commodity options on the Company’s profit before tax due to a 10 % change in market 
inputs, with all other variables held constant

Increase/decrease in Commodity Price

+10%
-10%

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
31
31

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
–
–

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

100
(100)

–
–

The Company may be exposed to business risks from fluctuations in the future prices of crude oil and gas. The following table summarises the 
impact on the Company’s profit before tax of a 10 % change in crude oil prices, with all other variables held constant:

Increase/decrease in crude oil prices 

+10%
-10%

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
 13,853 
 (13,853)

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
–
–

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 45,136 
 (45,136)

–
–

The following table summarises the impact on the Company’s profit before tax of a 10% change in gas prices, with all other variables 
held constant:

Increase/decrease in Commodity Price

+10%
-10%

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
 4,167 
 (4,167)

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax
 2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
$’000

 13,576 
 (13,576)

–
–

Cash flow and fair value interest rate risk

ii. 
The Company’s exposure to interest rate risk relates primarily to interest-bearing loans and borrowings. The Company has both variable and 
fixed borrowings issued at variable rates expose the Company to cash flow interest rate risk which is partially offset by cash and short-term 
fixed deposit held at variable rates. Fixed rate borrowings only give rise to interest rate risk if measured at fair value. The Company’s 
borrowings are not measured at fair value and are denominated in US dollars.

The Company is exposed to cash flow interest rate risk on short-term deposits to the extent that the significant increases and reductions in 
market interest rates would result in a decrease in the interest earned by the Company. The contractual re-pricing date of the interest-bearing 
loans and borrowings is between 3 – 6 months.

During the year, the Company transferred its interest-bearing loans and borrowings to Seplat West Limited. The exposure of the Company’s 
variable interest-bearing loans and borrowings for the year 2019 is shown below.

Corporate loans

2020
₦ million
–

2019
₦ million
 107,407 

2020
$’000

–

2019
$’000

 349,888 

The following table demonstrates the sensitivity of the Company’s profit before tax to changes in LIBOR rate, with all other variables 
held constant.

Increase/decrease in interest rate

+1%
-1%

256

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
 (41)
 42 

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
₦ million
 – 
 – 

Effect on 
profit 
before tax 
2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 (296)
296

 – 
 – 

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206.1.2  Foreign exchange risk
The Company has transactional currency exposures that arise from sales or purchases in currencies other than the respective functional 
currency. The Company is exposed to exchange rate risk to the extent that balances and transactions are denominated in a currency other 
than the US dollar.

The Company holds the majority of its bank balances equivalents in US dollar. However, the Company does maintain deposits in Naira in order 
to fund ongoing general and administrative activities and other expenditure incurred in this currency. Other monetary assets and liabilities 
which give rise to foreign exchange risk include trade and other receivables, trade and other payables.

The following table demonstrates the carrying value of monetary assets and liabilities (denominated in Naira) exposed to foreign exchange 
risks at the reporting date:

Financial assets 
Cash and bank balances
Contract assets
Trade and other receivables

Financial liabilities
Trade and other payables
Net exposure to foreign exchange risk

2020
₦ million

6,453
–
10
6,463

(60)
6,403

2019
₦ million

 25,839 
 6,527 
 16,835 
 49,201 

 (43,666)
 5,535 

2020
$’000

16,982
–
27
17,009

2019
$’000

 84,165 
 21,259 
 54,836 
 139,000 

(157)
16,852

 (142,233)
 (3,233)

The following table demonstrates the carrying value of monetary assets and liabilities exposed to foreign exchange risks for pound exposures 
at the reporting date.

Financial assets 
Cash and bank balances

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

228

45

2020
$’000

599

2019
$’000

147

Sensitivity to foreign exchange risk is based on the Company’s net exposure to foreign exchange risk due to Naira and pound denominated 
balances. If the Naira strengthens or weakens by the following thresholds, the impact is as shown in the table below:

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020 
₦ million
(305)
337

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
 47 
 (52)

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before  
tax 2020
₦ million 
–
–

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before  
tax 2019
₦ million 
 – 
 – 

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

(802)
887

–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 (2,346)
 2,593

–
–

If the pound strengthens or weakens by the following thresholds, the impact is as shown in the table below:

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Increase/decrease in foreign exchange risk

+5%
-5%

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020 
₦ million
 11
(12)

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
₦ million 
–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2020 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2020
 $’000

 29
(32)

–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2019 
₦ million
 2
(2)

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
₦ million 
–
–

Effect on profit 
before tax 
2019 
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
equity before tax
2019
 $’000

 7
(7)

–
–

257

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.1.3  Credit risk
Credit risk refers to the risk of a counterparty defaulting on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Company. Credit risk 
arises from cash and bank balances, derivative assets, deposits with banks and financial institutions as well as credit exposures to 
customers (i.e. Mercuria and NGMC receivables), and other parties (i.e. NPDC receivables and other receivables). During the year, the 
Company transferred its derivative assets, receivables from NPDC and contract assets to Seplat West Limited.

Risk management

a. 
The credit risk on cash and bank balances is managed through the diversification of banks in which cash and bank balances are held. This risk 
on cash is limited because the majority of deposits are with banks that have an acceptable credit rating assigned by an international credit 
agency. The Company’s maximum exposure to credit risk due to default of the counterparty is equal to the carrying value of its financial 
assets. The maximum exposure to credit risk as at the reporting date is:

Trade and other receivables (Gross)
Contract assets 
Cash and bank balances (Gross)
Gross amount
Impairment of receivables
Impairment of cash and bank balance
Net amount

2020
₦ million
501
–
72,621
73,122
–
–
73,122

2019
₦ million
 409,055 
 6,527 
 83,332 
 498,934 
 (2,460)
 (15)
 496,459 

2020
$‘000

1,320
–
191,105
192,425
–
–
192,425

2019
$‘000

1,332,497
21,259
271,441
1,625,197
 (8,012)
 (51)
1,617,134

Impairment of financial assets

b. 
The Company has five types of financial assets that are subject to IFRS 9’s expected credit loss model. Contract assets are also subject to the 
expected credit loss model, even though they are not financial assets, as they have substantially the same credit risk characteristics as trade 
receivables. The impairment of receivables disclosed in the table below is for 2019 comparative only, as there was no impairment loss 
for 2020.

• Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables

• Trade receivables

• Contract assets

• Cash and bank balances

• Intercompany receivables

Reconciliation of impairment on financial assets:

As at 1 January 2019
Increase in provision for Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables
Decrease in provision for bank balance (fixed deposit)
Decrease in provision for intercompany receivables
Increase in provision for trade receivables
Exchange difference
Impairment charge to the profit or loss
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible
As at 31 December 2019

Notes

24.4

24.4

₦’million
 4,541 
 12,836 
 (13)
 (322)
 287 
(4)
 12,784 
 (14,871)
 2,454

$’000

 14,848 
 41,811 
 (39)
 (1,053)
 933 
–
 41,652 
 (48,439)
 8,061 

258

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The parameters used to determine impairment for NPDC receivables, intercompany receivables and short-term fixed deposits are shown 
below. For all receivables presented in the table, the respective 12-month Probability of Default (PD) equate the Lifetime PD for stage 2 as the 
maximum contractual period over which the Company is exposed to credit risk arising from the receivables is less than 12 months.

Nigerian Petroleum Development Company 
(NPDC) receivables

Intercompany receivables

Short-term fixed deposits

Probability of 
Default (PD)

The PD for base case, downturn and 
upturn is 2.03%, 2.10% and 2.10% 
respectively.

The 12-month PD and lifetime PD for 
stage 1 and stage 2 is 0.05%. The PD for 
stage 3 is 100%.

The 12-month PD and lifetime PD for 
stage 1 and stage 2 is 0.09%. The PD for 
stage 3 is 100%.

Loss Given 
Default (LGD)

Exposure at 
default (EAD)

Macroeconomic 
indicators

Probability 
weightings

The 12-month LGD and lifetime LGD 
were determined using Moody’s 
recovery rate for senior unsecured 
corporate bonds for emerging 
economies.
The EAD is the maximum exposure of 
the receivable to credit risk.

The 12-month LGD and lifetime LGD 
were determined using management’s 
estimate of expected cash recoveries.

The EAD is the maximum exposure of 
the receivable to credit risk.

The historical inflation, unemployment 
growth rate in Nigeria and crude oil 
price were used.
80%, 10% and 10% of historical GDP 
growth rate observations fall within 
acceptable bounds, periods of boom 
and periods of downturn respectively.

The historical gross domestic product 
(GDP) growth rate in Nigeria and crude 
oil price were used.
89%, 2% and 9% of historical GDP 
growth rate observations fall within 
acceptable bounds, periods of boom 
and periods of downturn respectively.

The 12-month LGD and lifetime LGD 
were determined using the average 
recovery rate for Moody’s senior 
unsecured corporate bonds for 
emerging economies.
The EAD is the maximum exposure 
of the short-term fixed deposits to 
credit risk.
The historical gross domestic product 
(GDP) growth rate in Nigeria and crude 
oil price were used.
78%, 12% and 10% of historical GDP 
growth rate observations fall within 
acceptable bounds, periods of boom 
and periods of downturn respectively.

The Company considers both quantitative and qualitative indicators in classifying its receivables into the relevant stages  
for impairment calculation.

Impairment of financial assets are recognised in three stages on an individual or collective basis as shown below:

• Stage 1: This stage includes financial assets that are less than 30 days past due (Performing).

• Stage 2: This stage includes financial assets that have been assessed to have experienced a significant increase in credit risk using the days 

past due criteria (i.e. the outstanding receivables amounts are more than 30 days past due but less than 90 days past due) and other 
qualitative indicators such as the increase in political risk concerns or other microeconomic factors and the risk of legal action, sanction or 
other regulatory penalties that may impair future financial performance.

• Stage 3: This stage includes financial assets that have been assessed as being in default (i.e. receivables that are more than 90 days past 

due) or that have a clear indication that the imposition of financial or legal penalties and/or sanctions will make the full recovery of 
indebtedness highly improbable.

Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables

i. 
NPDC receivables represent the outstanding cash calls due to Seplat from its Joint Arrangement partner, Nigerian Petroleum Development 
Company. The Company applies the IFRS 9 general model for measuring expected credit losses (ECL). This requires a three-stage approach in 
recognising the expected loss allowance for NPDC receivables.

The ECL recognised for the period is a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses discounted at the effective interest rate of the financial 
asset. Credit losses are measured as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the cash flows due to the Company in 
accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the Company expects to receive).

The ECL was calculated based on actual credit loss experience from 2014, which is the date the Company initially became a party to the 
contract. The following analysis provides further detail about the calculation of ECLs related to these assets. The Company considers the 
model and the assumptions used in calculating these ECLs as key sources of estimation uncertainty.

There was no write-off during the year (2019: ₦14.9 billion ($48.4 million)).

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
52,637 
(448)
 52,189 

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

 171,457 
 (1,460)
 169,997 

–
–
–

–
–
–

Total
₦’million
52,637 
(448)
 52,189 

Total
$’000

 171,457 
 (1,460)
 169,997 

259

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.1.3  Credit risk continued

Trade receivables

ii. 
Nigerian Gas Marketing Company
The Company applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses which uses a lifetime expected loss allowance for 
all trade receivables and contract assets.

The impairment of trade receivables (NGMC) was estimated by applying the provision matrix. The expected loss rate was calculated as the 
percentage of the receivable that is deemed uncollectible during a particular period. 

The expected loss rates as at 31 December 2019 are as follows:

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24)
Total

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL (Note 24)
Total

Current
₦’million
 2,515 
0.16%
 (4)
 2,511 

Current
$’000

 8,192 
0.16%
 (12)
 8,180 

1-30 days
₦’million
 – 
0.16%
 – 
 – 

31-60 days
₦’million
 1,790 
0.17%
 (3)
 1,787 

61-90 days
₦’million
 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

91-120 days
₦’million
 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

1-30 days
$’000

31-60 days
$’000

61-90 days
$’000

91-120 days
$’000

 – 
0.16%
 – 
 – 

 5,831 
0.17%
 (8)
 5,823 

 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

 – 
0.17%
 – 
 – 

Above  
120 days
₦’million
 12,176 
3.0%
 (333)
 11,843 

Above  
120 days
$’000

 39,661 
3.0%
 (1,090)
 38,571 

Total
₦’million
 16,481 

 (340)
 16,141 

Total
$’000

 53,684 

 (1,110) 
 52,574 

Mercuria
The impairment of trade receivables (Mercuria) was estimated by applying the provision matrix. The expected loss rate was calculated as the 
percentage of the receivable that is deemed uncollectible during a particular period. The expected loss rates as at 31 December 2020 was nil.

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL
Total

31 December 2019

Gross carrying amount
Expected loss rate
Lifetime ECL
Total

Current
₦’million
15,863
0.4%
(68)
15,795

Current
$’000

51,669
0.4%
(219)
51,450

1-30 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

31-60 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

61-90 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

91-120 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

1-30 days
$’000

31-60 days
$’000

61-90 days
$’000

91-120 days
$’000

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

Above  
120 days
₦’million
–
–
–
–

Above  
120 days
$’000

–
–
–
–

Total
₦’million
 15,863
0.4%
(68)
15,795

Total
$’000

51,669
–
(219)
51,450

Cash and cash equivalent

iii. 
Short-term fixed deposits
The Company applies the IFRS 9 general model for measuring expected credit losses (ECL) which uses a three-stage approach in recognising 
the expected loss allowance for cash and bank balances. The ECL was calculated as the probability weighted estimate of the credit losses 
expected to occur over the contractual period of the facility after considering macroeconomic indicators.

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

260

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
7,958
–
7,958

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Total
₦’million
7,958
–
7,958

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202031 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

20,941
–
20,941

–
–
–

–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
7,304
(15)
7,289

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

23,794
(51)
23,743

–
–
–

–
–
–

Total
$’000

20,941
–
20,941

Total
₦’million
7,304
(15)
7,289

Total
$’000

23,794
(51)
23,743

Other cash and bank balances

iv. 
The Company assessed the other cash and bank balances to determine their expected credit losses. Based on this assessment, they 
identified the expected credit loss to be nil as at 31 December 2020 (2019: nil). The assets are assessed to be in stage 1.

Credit quality of cash and bank balances 
The credit quality of the Company’s cash and bank balances is assessed based on external credit ratings (Fitch national long-term ratings) as 
shown below:

Non-rated
BBB-
B
A+
AA-
AA+
AAA

Allowance for impairment recognised during the year (Note 27)
Net cash and cash bank balances

Intercompany receivables

v. 
31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

2020
₦ million
130
211
–
63,995
–
5,226
3,059
72,621
–
72,621

2019
₦ million
9
473
25,399
57,213
 – 
–
240
83,334
(15)
 83,319 

2020
$‘000

343
554
–
168,408
–
13,751
8,049
191,105
–
191,105

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
487,752
–
487,752

Stage 1
12-month ECL
₦’million
313,508
(1,605)
 311,903 

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
₦’million
–
–
–

2019
$‘000

17
1,542
82,735
186,373
 – 
–
782
271,449
(51)
 271,398 

Total
₦’million
487,752
–
487,752

Total
₦’million
313,508
(1,605)
 311,903 

261

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.1.3  Credit risk continued
v. 

Intercompany receivables continued

31 December 2020

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

31 December 2019

Gross Exposure at Default (EAD)
Loss allowance 
Net Exposure at Default (EAD)

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

1,283,558
–
1,283,558

–
–
–

–
–
–

Stage 1
12-month ECL
$’000

Stage 2
Lifetime ECL
$’000

Stage 3
Lifetime ECL
$’000

 1,021,194 
(5,223)
 1,015,971 

–
–
–

–
–
–

Total
$’000

1,283,558
–
1,283,558

Total
$’000

 1,021,194 
(5,223)
 1,015,971 

Maximum exposure to credit risk – financial instruments subject to impairment

c. 
The Company estimated the expected credit loss on NPDC receivables, Intercompany receivables and fixed deposits by applying the general 
model. The gross carrying amount of financial assets represents the Company’s maximum exposure to credit risks on these assets. During 
the year, there was no ECL.

All financial assets impaired using the General model (NPDC, Intercompany and Fixed deposits) are graded under the standard monitoring 
credit grade (rated B under Standard and Poor’s unmodified ratings) and are classified under Stage 1.

Roll forward movement in loss allowance

d. 
The loss allowance recognised in the period is impacted by a variety of factors, as described below:

• additional allowances for new financial instruments recognised during the period, as well as releases for financial instruments 

derecognised in the period;

• discount unwind within ECL due to passage of time, as ECL is measured on a present value basis;

• foreign exchange retranslation for assets dominated in foreign currencies and other movements; and

• financial assets derecognised during the period and write-off of receivables and allowances related to assets.

Estimation uncertainty in measuring impairment loss

e. 
The table below shows information on the sensitivity of the carrying amounts of the Company’s financial assets to the methods, assumptions 
and estimates used in calculating impairment losses on those financial assets at the end of the reporting period. These methods, 
assumptions and estimates have a significant risk of causing material adjustments to the carrying amounts of the Company’s 
financial assets. 

Expected cash flow recoverable

f. 
The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Company’s profit before tax to a 20% change in the expected cash flows from financial 
assets, with all other variables held constant:

Increase/decrease in estimated cash flows
+20%
-20%

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
profit before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of  
profit before tax
2019
$’000

94
(94)

–
–

305
(305)

–
–

Significant unobservable inputs

g. 
The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Company’s profit before tax to movements in the probability of default (PD) and loss given 
default (LGD) for financial assets, with all other variables held constant:

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
$’000

(46)
46

–
–

(145)
145

–
–

Increase/decrease in loss given default
+10%
-10%

262

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Company’s profit before tax to movements in probabilities of default, with all other 
variables held constant.

Increase/decrease in probability of default
+10%
-10%

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
$’000

(49)
49

–
–

(159)
159

–
–

The table below demonstrates the sensitivity of the Company’s profit before tax to movements in the forward-looking macroeconomic 
indicators, with all other variables held constant:

Increase/decrease in forward-looking macroeconomic indicators
+10%
-10%

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
₦ million

Effect on profit 
before tax
2019
$’000

Effect on other 
components of 
equity before tax
2019
$’000

(46)
46

–
–

(145)
145

–
–

6.1.4  Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Company manages liquidity risk 
by ensuring that enough funds are available to meet its commitments as they fall due.

The Company uses both long-term and short-term cash flow projections to monitor funding requirements for activities and to ensure there 
are enough cash resources to meet operational needs. Cash flow projections take into consideration the Company’s debt financing plans and 
covenant compliance. Surplus cash held is transferred to the treasury department which invests in interest-bearing current accounts, time 
deposits and money market deposits.

The following table details the Company’s remaining contractual maturity for its non-derivative financial liabilities with agreed maturity 
periods. The table has been drawn based on the undiscounted cash flows of the financial liabilities based on the earliest date on which the 
Company can be required to pay. 

The table below represents the loans and borrowings for 2019, the Company had no borrowings in the current year as they have been 
transferred to Seplat West Ltd.

Effective interest 
rate
%

Less than  
1 year
₦ million

1 – 2  
year
₦ million

2 – 3  
years
₦ million

3 – 5  
years
₦ million

Total
₦ million

9.25%

31 December 2019
Non-derivatives
Fixed interest rate borrowings
Senior notes
Variable interest rate borrowings
6.0% +LIBOR
Citibank, N.A., London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Nedbank Limited London
6.0% +LIBOR
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
6.0% +LIBOR
RMB International (Mauritius) Limited
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
6.0% +LIBOR
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch 6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
Standard Chartered Bank
6.0% +LIBOR
Natixis 
6.0% +LIBOR
Société Générale, London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Zenith Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
United Bank for Africa Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
First City Monument Bank Limited
Total variable interest borrowings
Other non-derivatives
Trade and other payables**
Lease liabilities

Total 

10,105

10,077

10,077

112,475

142,734

1,020
1,020
 510 
 510 
1,020
1,020
 764 
 764 
 764 
 383 
 383 
 383 
 383 
8,924

 105,632 
 247 
105,879
124,908

5,078
5,078
 2,539 
 2,539 
5,078
5,078
 3,808 
 3,808 
 3,808 
 1,904 
 1,904 
 1,904 
 1,904 
44,430

 – 
 155 
155
54,662

 4,750
 4,750
 2,375 
 2,375 
 4,750
 4,750
 3,562 
 3,562 
 3,562 
 1,781 
 1,781 
 1,781 
 1,781 
41,560

 – 
 1,059 
1,059
52,696

 4,421
 4,421
2,211
2,211
 4,421
 4,421
 3,316 
 3,316 
 3,316 
 1,658 
 1,658 
 1,658 
 1,658 
38,686

 – 
 2,036 
2,036
153,197

15,269
15,269
 7,635 
 7,635 
15,269
15,269
 11,450 
 11,450 
 11,450 
 5,726 
 5,726 
 5,726 
 5,726 
133,600

 105,632 
 3,496 
109,128
385,462

263

** Trade and other payables (exclude non-financial liabilities such as provisions, taxes, pension and other non-contractual payables).

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.1.4  Liquidity risk continued

Effective interest 
rate
%

Less than  
1 year
$’000

1 – 2  
year
$’000

2 – 3  
years
$’000

3 – 5  
years
$’000

Total
$’000

9.25%

31 December 2019
Non-derivatives
Fixed interest rate borrowings
Senior notes
Variable interest rate borrowings
6.0% +LIBOR
Citibank, N.A., London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Nedbank Limited London
6.0% +LIBOR
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited
6.0% +LIBOR
RMB International (Mauritius) Limited
6.0% +LIBOR
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., London Branch 6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
Standard Chartered Bank
6.0% +LIBOR
Natixis 
6.0% +LIBOR
Société Générale, London Branch
6.0% +LIBOR
Zenith Bank Plc
6.0% +LIBOR
United Bank for Africa Plc
First City Monument Bank Limited
6.0% +LIBOR
Total variable interest borrowings
Other non-derivatives
Trade and other payables**
Lease liability

Total 

 32,915 

 32,825 

 32,825 

 366,367 

464,932

 3,321 
 3,321 
 1,661 
 1,661 
 3,321 
 3,321 
 2,491 
 2,491 
 2,491 
 1,246 
 1,246 
 1,246 
 1,246 
 29,063 

 344,078 
 803 
 344,881 
406,859

 16,540 
 16,540 
 8,270 
 8,270 
 16,540 
 16,540 
 12,405 
 12,405 
 12,405 
 6,203 
 6,203 
 6,203 
 6,203 
 144,727 

–
 505 
 505 
178,057

 15,471 
 15,471 
 7,736 
 7,736 
 15,471 
 15,471 
 11,604 
 11,604 
 11,604 
 5,802 
 5,802 
 5,802 
 5,802 
 135,376 

–
 3,449 
 3,449 
171,650

 14,402 
 14,402 
 7,201 
 7,201 
 14,402 
 14,402 
 10,802 
 10,802 
 10,802 
 5,401 
 5,401 
 5,401 
 5,401 
 126,020 

–
 6,632 
 6,632 
499,019

** Trade and other payables (exclude non-financial liabilities such as provisions, taxes, pension and other non-contractual payables). 

 Fair value measurements

6.1.5 
Set out below is a comparison by category of carrying amounts and fair value of all financial instruments:

Carrying amount

Fair value

2020
₦ million

501
–
72,621
73,122

–
–

–
201,057
201,057

2019
₦ million

 345,007 
 6,527 
 83,319 
434,853

 308 
 308

 214,644 
 189,701 
404,345

2020
₦ million

501
–
72,621
73,122

–
–

–
201,057
201,057

Financial assets at amortised cost
Trade and other receivables*
Contract assets
Cash and bank balances

Financial assets at fair value
Derivative financial instruments

Financial liabilities at amortised cost
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Trade and other payables

264

 49,734 
 49,734 
 24,868 
 24,868 
 49,733 
 49,733 
 37,302 
 37,302 
 37,302 
 18,652 
 18,652 
 18,652 
 18,652 
435,184

 344,078 
 11,389 
 355,467 
1,255,583

2019
₦ million

 345,007 
 6,527 
 83,319 
434,853

 308 
 308

202,101
 189,701 
391,802

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Financial assets at amortised cost
Trade and other receivables
Contract assets
Cash and bank balances

Financial assets at fair value
Derivative financial instruments

Financial liabilities at amortised cost
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Trade and other payables

Carrying amount

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

Fair value

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

1,320
–
191,105
192,425

–

1,123,802
21,259
271,398
1,416,459

 1,002 
 1,002 

1,320
–
191,105
192,425

–

1,123,802
21,259
271,398
1,416,459

 1,002 
 1,002 

–
529,100
529,100

699,166
617,919
1,317,085

–
529,100
529,100

658,309
617,919
1,276,228

* Trade and other receivables exclude NGMC VAT receivables, cash advances and advance payments.

In determining the fair value of the interest-bearing loans and borrowings, non-performance risks of the Company as at year end were 
assessed to be insignificant. 

Trade and other payables (exclude non-financial liabilities such as provisions, taxes, pension and other non-contractual payables), trade and 
other receivables and contract assets (excluding prepayments) and cash and bank balances are financial instruments whose carrying 
amounts as per the financial statements approximate their fair values. This is mainly due to their short-term nature.

6.1.6  Fair value hierarchy 
As at the reporting period, the Company had classified its financial instruments into the three levels prescribed under the accounting 
standards. These are all recurring fair value measurements. There were no transfers of financial instruments between fair value hierarchy 
levels during the year. 

• Level 1 – Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

• Level 2 – Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly  

or indirectly observable.

• Level 3 – Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable.

The fair value of the financial instruments is included at the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an 
orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

Financial assets

31 December 2019

Financial assets:
Derivative financial instruments

Level 1
₦ million 

Level 2
₦ million

Level 3
₦ million

Level 1
$’000

Level 2
$’000

Level 3
$’000

 308 

– 

 – 

 1,002 

– 

 – 

The fair value of the Company’s derivative financial instruments has been determined using a proprietary pricing model that uses marked to 
market valuation. The valuation represents the mid-market value and the actual close-out costs of trades involved. The market inputs to the 
model are derived from observable sources. Other inputs are unobservable but are estimated based on the market inputs or by using other 
pricing models.

Financial liabilities

31 December 2019

Financial liabilities:
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

Level 1
₦ million 

–
–

Level 2
₦ million

202,101
202,101

Level 3
₦ million

Level 1
$’000

Level 2
$’000

Level 3
$’000

 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 

658,309
 658,309

– 
– 

The fair value of the Company’s interest-bearing loans and borrowings is determined by using discounted cash flow models that use market 
interest rates as at the end of the period. The interest-bearing loans and borrowings are in level 2. 

The carrying amounts of the other financial instruments are the same as their fair values.

265

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20206. 

Financial risk management continued

6.2  Capital management 
6.2.1  Risk management
The Company’s objective when managing capital is to safeguard the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide 
returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders, to maintain optimal capital structure and reduce cost of capital. Consistent with 
others in the industry, the Company monitors capital based on the following gearing ratio, net debt divided by total capital. Net debt is 
calculated as total borrowings less cash and bank balances.

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Less: cash and bank balances
Net debt
Total equity
Total capital
Net debt (net debt/total capital) ratio

2020
₦ million
–
(72,621)
(72,621)
102,241
29,620
–

2019
₦ million
 214,644 
(83,319)
 131,325 
 577,223 
 708,548 
19%

2020
$’000

–
(191,105)
(191,105)
362,957
171,852
–

2019
$’000

 699,166 
 (271,398)
 427,768 
 1,880,210 
 2,307,978 
19%

Capital includes share capital, share premium, treasury shares, capital contribution and all other equity reserves. During the year, the 
Company had nil gearing ratio due to the transfer of its interest-bearing loans and borrowings to Seplat West Limited.

7. 

Segment reporting

Due to the change in the Company’s operation, Seplat Plc is now a holding Company and no longer has operating or reportable segments 
(see Note 2).

8.  Revenue from contracts with customers

Crude oil sales 
Gas sales
Gas processing

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 138,530 
 41,668 
 20,535 
 200,733 

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–

2019
$’000

 451,364 
 135,761 
 66,912 
 654,037 

The major off taker for crude oil in 2019 was Mercuria and Shell Western. The major off taker for gas is the Nigerian Gas Marketing Company 
and Azura.

Gas processing is revenue received from Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) for processing its share of the gas extracted from 
OML 4, 38 and 41 from 2015 to 2018. Subsequently, NPDC 55% stake in the gas plant, as a result of this acquisition, Seplat has ceased to 
process gas for NPDC.

During the year, Seplat became a holding Company, hence, no revenue was generated from contracts with customers (see significant changes 
in Note 2).

9.  Cost of sales 

Royalties
Depletion, depreciation and amortisation (Note 17.5)
Crude handling fees
Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) fee 
Niger Delta Development Commission Levy
Rig related costs
Operational and maintenance expenses

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 28,072 
 26,964 
 15,382 
 170 
 2,126 
 1,871 
 11,402 
 85,987 

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

2019
$’000

 91,465 
 87,856 
 50,121 
 553 
 6,925 
 6,094 
 37,148 
 280,162 

Operational and maintenance expenses mainly relates to maintenance costs, warehouse operations expenses, security expenses, 
community expenses, clean-up costs, fuel supplies and catering services.

10.  Other income 

Overlifts
Exchange (loss)/gain
Gain on disposal of oil and gas assets
Tariffs

266

2020
₦ million
–
(2,383)
–
–
(2,383)

2019
₦’million
 (7,028)
 588 
 9,462 
 1,074 
 4,096 

2020
$’000

–
(6,621)
–
–
(6,621)

2019
$’000

 (22,898)
 1,916 
 30,830 
 3,498 
 13,346 

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
Overlifts are excess crude lifted above the share of production. It may exist when the crude oil lifted by the Company during the period is 
above its ownership share of production. Overlifts are initially measured at the market price of oil at the date of lifting and recognised in profit 
or loss. At each reporting period, overlifts is remeasured at the current market value. The resulting change, as a result of the remeasurement, 
is also recognised in profit or loss.

Underlifts are shortfalls of crude lifted below the share of production. It may exist when the crude oil lifted by the Company during the period 
is less than its ownership share of production. The shortfall is initially measured at the market price of oil at the date of lifting and recognised 
as other income. At each reporting period, the shortfall is remeasured at the current market value. The resulting change, as a result of the 
remeasurement, is also recognised in profit or loss as other income.

(Loss)/gains on foreign exchange are principally as a result of translation of Naira denominated monetary assets and liabilities. Tariffs which 
is a form of crude handling fee, relate to income generated from the use of the Company’s pipeline.

11.  General and administrative expenses

Depreciation (Note 17)
Depreciation of right-of-use assets
Auditor’s remuneration
Professional and consulting fees
Directors’ emoluments (executive)
Directors’ emoluments (non-executive)
Donations
Employee benefits (Note 11.1)
Flights and other travel costs
Rentals 
Other general expenses

2020
₦ million
1
–
–
630
–
1,201
–
1,856
75
–
1,291
5,054

2019
₦’million
 857 
 907 
 120 
 3,157 
 735 
 1,048 
 68 
 7,347 
 2,607 
 198 
 – 
 17,044 

2020
$’000

3
–
–
1,751
–
3,337
–
5,157
211
–
3,587
14,046

2019
$’000

 2,791 
 2,955 
 389 
 10,285 
 2,393 
 3,416 
 221 
 23,941 
 8,495 
 645 
–
 55,531 

Directors’ emoluments have been split between Executive and Non-Executive Directors. There were no non-audit services rendered by the 
Company’s auditors during the year.

Other general expenses relate to costs such as office maintenance costs, rentals, telecommunication costs, logistics costs and others. 
Share-based payment expenses are included in employee benefits expense.

11.1  Salaries and employee related costs include the following:

2020
₦ million

2019
₦’million

2020
$’000

Short-term employee benefits:
Basic salary
Housing allowances
Other allowances
Post-employment benefits:
Defined contribution expenses
Defined benefit expenses
Other employee benefit:
Share-based payment expenses (Note 28.4)

Other allowances relate to staff bonus, car allowances and relocation expenses.

12. 

Impairment/(reversal) of losses on financial assets 

Impairment loss on NPDC receivables
Impairment loss on trade receivables (Mercuria)
Impairment loss on trade receivables (NGMC)

Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible

Reversal of impairment on NPDC receivables
Reversal of impairment loss on intercompany receivables
Reversal of impairment loss on trade receivables (NGMC)
Reversal of impairment loss on cash and bank balances (fixed deposits)

Exchange difference
Total impairment loss allowance

–
–
–

–
–

1,856
1,856

2020
₦ million
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 2,712 
 500 
 462 

 500 
 309 

 2,864 
 7,347 

2019
₦ million
 – 
 68 
 219 
 287 
 14,871 
 15,158 
 (2,036)
 (322)
 – 
 (13)
 (2,371)
 (3) 
 12,784 

2019
$’000

 8,839 
 1,630 
 1,614 

 1,630 
 1,005 

–
–
–

–
–

5,157
5,157

 9,223 
 23,941 

2020
$’000

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

2019
$’000

 – 
 221 
 712 
 933 
 48,439 
 49,327 
 (6,628)
 (1,053)
 – 
 (39)
 (7,720)
 – 
 41,652 

267

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202013.  Fair value (loss)/gain

Realised fair value losses on crude oil hedges
Unrealised fair value gain 

2020
₦ million
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 (1,584)
 (2,385)
 (3,969)

Fair value gain/(loss) on derivatives represents changes in the fair value of hedging receivables charged to profit or loss. 

14.  Finance income/(cost)

Finance income
Interest income
Finance cost
Interest on bank loans 
Interest on lease liabilities 
Unwinding of discount on provision for decommissioning

Finance income/(cost) – net

Finance income represents interest on short-term fixed deposits. 

15.  Taxation

2020
₦ million

277

–
–
–
–
277

2019
₦ million

 4,702 

 8,890 
 164 
 1,075 
 10,129 
 (5,427)

The major components of income tax expense for the years ended 31 December 2020 and 2019 are:

15.1 

Income tax expense

2020
$’000

–
–
–

2020
$’000

770

–
–
–
–
770

2019
$’000

 (5,160)
 (7,770)
 (12,930)

2019
$’000

 15,321 

 28,966 
 534 
 3,501 
 33,001 
 (17,680)

Current tax:
Petroleum profit tax
Education tax
Total current tax 
Deferred tax:
Deferred tax expense in profit or loss
Total tax expense in statement of profit or loss
Deferred tax recognised in other comprehensive income
Total tax charge for the period
Effective tax rate 

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–

 5,741 
 900 
 6,641 

 6,843 
 13,484 
 (171)
 13,313 
17%

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–

 18,704 
 2,933 
 21,637 

 22,296 
 43,934 
 (558)
 43,376 
17%

15.2  Reconciliation of effective tax rate
The income tax expense is recognised based on management’s estimate of the weighted average effective annual income tax rate expected 
for the full financial year. The estimated annual tax rate used for the year ended 31 December 2020 is 30%. As at 31 December 2019, the 
applicable tax rate was 85%, 65.75% and 30%.

The effective tax rate for the period was nil (2019: 17%).

A reconciliation between income tax expense and accounting profit before income tax multiplied by the applicable statutory tax rate  
is as follows:

Profit before taxation
Tax rate of 85%, 65.75% and 30%
Tax effect of amounts which are not deductible (taxable) in calculating 
taxable income:
Income not subject to tax
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes
Recognition of previously unrecognised deductible temporary difference
Impact of unrecognised deferred tax on temporary differences
Effect of permanent differences
Impact of tax incentive
Impact of tax losses
Education tax
Total tax credit in statement of profit or loss

2020
₦ million
(7,160)
(2,148)

557
–
–
–
–
–
1,591
–
–

2019
₦ million
 79,613 
 67,671 

 (18,684)
 36,374 
 (32,529)
 6,847 
 (765)
 (46,330)
–
 900 
 13,484 

2020
$’000

(19,897)
(5,969)

1,548
–
–
–
–
–
4,421
–
–

2019
$’000

 259,411 
 220,499 

 (60,877)
 118,517 
 (105,989)
 22,297 
 (2,494)
 (150,953)

 2,933 
 43,934 

268

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202015.3  Current tax liabilities/(assets)
The movement in the current tax liabilities is as follows:

As at 1 January 
Tax charge
Transfer to Seplat West
Tax paid
As 31 December

15.4  Deferred tax
The analysis of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities is as follows:

Deferred tax assets

Deferred tax asset to be recovered after more than 12 months

Deferred tax liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities to be recovered after more than 12 months

2020
₦ million
 4,882 
–
(4,882)
–
–

2020
₦ million
–
–

2020
₦ million
–

2019
₦ million
 (723)
 6,641 

 (1,036)
 4,882 

2019
₦ million
 147,513 
 147,513 

2019
₦ million
 (109,904)

Net deferred tax (liabilities)/assets

–

 37,609 

2020
$’000

 15,901 
–
(15,901)
–
–

2020
$’000

–
–

2020
$’000

–

–

2019
$’000

 (2,356)
 21,637 

 (3,380)
 15,901 

2019
$’000

 481,634 
 481,634 

2019
$’000

 (359,126)

 122,508 

15.5  Deferred tax assets
Deferred income tax assets are recognised for tax losses carried forward to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through 
future taxable profits is probable.

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Provision for defined benefit plan
Share-based payment reserve
Unrealised foreign exchange (gain)/loss on trade and other receivables
Overlift/(underlift)
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables

Effect of exchange differences

Balance at 
1 January 2020
₦ million
 – 
 – 
 122,647 
 (3)
 2,725 
 5,670 
 1,046 
 11,219 
4,021
147,325
188
147,513

Transfer to 
Seplat West
₦ million
 – 
 – 
 (122,647) 
 3
 (2,725) 
 (5,670) 
 (1,046) 
 (11,219) 
(4,021)
(147,325)
(188)
(147,513)

(Charged)/
credited to profit 
or loss
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Balance at 
31 December 
2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

Balance at 
1 January 2020
$’000

Transfer to 
Seplat West
$’000

(Charged)/
credited to profit 
or loss
$’000

Balance at 
31 December 
2020
$’000

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Defined benefit plan
Share-based payment 
Unrealised foreign exchange (gain)/loss on trade and other receivables
Overlift/(underlift)
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Total charged to profit or loss

–

–

 401,027 
 – 
 8,896 
 18,519 
 3,433 
 36,622 
 13,137 
481,634

 (401,027) 
 – 
 (8,896) 
 (18,519) 
 (3,433) 
 (36,622) 
 (13,137) 
(481,634)

–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

269

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202015.  Taxation continued

15.5  Deferred tax assets continued

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Provision for defined benefit plan
Share-based payment reserve
Unrealised foreign exchange (gain)/loss on trade and other receivables
Overlift/(underlift)
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables

Effect of exchange differences

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Defined benefit plan
Share-based payment 
Unrealised foreign exchange (gain)/loss on trade and other receivables
Overlift/(underlift)
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Total charged to profit or loss

Balance at 
1 January 2019
₦ million
 –

(Charged)/ 
credited to profit  
or loss
₦ million
 – 

Credited to other 
comprehensive 
income
₦ million
–

Balance at 
31 December 
2019
₦ million
 – 

 116,068 
 818 
 1,540 
 3,294 
 1,258 
 5,246 
3,863
132,087
188
132,275

 6,579 
 (821)
 1,014 
 2,376 
 (212)
 5,973 
 158 
15,067
 – 
15,067

–
–
 171 
–
–
–
–
171

171

 122,647 
 (3)
 2,725 
 5,670 
 1,046 
 11,219 
4,021
147,325
188
147,513

Balance at 
1 January 2019
$’000

(Charged)/
credited to profit 
or loss
$’000

Credited to other 
comprehensive 
income
$’000

Balance at 
31 December 
2019
$’000

–

–

 379,592 
 2,674 
 5,035 
 10,778 
 4,123 
 17,159 
 12,623 
431,984

 21,435 
 (2,674)
 3,303 
 7,741 
 (690)
 19,463 
 514 
49,092

–

 – 
 – 
 558 
–
 – 
 – 
 – 
558

–

 401,027 
 – 
 8,896 
 18,519 
 3,433 
 36,622 
 13,137 
481,634

15.6  Deferred tax liabilities
Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for amounts of income taxes payable in future periods in respect of taxable temporary differences.

Balance at
1 January 2020
₦ million
–

Transfer to 
Seplat West
₦ million
–

(Charged)/
credited to profit 
or loss
₦ million
–

Balance at 31 
December 2020
₦ million
–

113,546

(113,546)

(6)
113,540

6
(113,540)

–

–
–

–

–
–

Balance at
1 January 2019
₦ million
–

(Charged)/
credited
 to profit or loss
₦ million
–

Credited to other 
comprehensive 
income
₦ million
–

Balance at 31 
December 2019
₦ million
–

85,706
 2,282 
 87,988 
 (9)
 87,979 

 27,840 
 (2,282)
 25,558 
 3 
 25,561 

 – 
 – 
–
–
–

113,546
 – 
 113,546 
 (6)
 113,540 

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets

Effect of exchange difference

Tax losses
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets
Derivative financial instruments

Effect of exchange difference

270

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Tax loss
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets

Tax loss
Other cumulative timing differences:
Fixed assets
Derivative financial instruments

15.7  Deferred tax recognised in profit or loss

Credited to profit or loss;
Unutilised capital allowance
Provision for defined benefit
Share-based payment plan
Overlift
Tax losses
Charged to profit or loss:
Provision for decommissioning obligation
Unrealised foreign exchange loss/(gain) on trade and other receivables
Fixed assets
Impairment provision on trade and other receivables
Exchange difference

Charged to other comprehensive income
Deferred tax credit/(expense) on remeasurement 

16.  Computation of cash generated from operations

Notes

(Loss)/profit before tax
Adjusted for:
Depletion, depreciation and amortization
Depreciation of right-of-use assets
Impairment of losses on financial assets
Interest income
Interest expense on bank loans 
Interest on lease liabilities
Unwinding of discount on provision for decommissioning 
Fair value loss on derivative financial instruments
Unrealised foreign exchange gain
Share-based payment expenses
Defined benefit expenses 
Gain on disposal of oil and gas properties 
Changes in working capital:  
(excluding the effects of exchange differences)
Trade and other receivables
Inventories
Prepayments
Contract assets
Trade and other payables
Contract liabilities
Restricted cash
Net cash from operating activities

Balance at
1 January 2020
$’000

Transfer to 
Seplat West
$’000

(Charged)/
credited to profit 
or loss
$’000

Balance at  
31 December  
2020
$’000

–

–

370,993
370,993

(370,993)
(370,993)

–

–
–

–

–
–

Balance at
1 January 2019
$’000

Charged/
credited
 to profit or loss
$’000

Credited to other 
comprehensive 
income
$’000

Balance at  
31 December  
2019
$’000

–

–

280,282
7,456
 287,738 

 90,711 
 (7,456)
 83,255 

–

–
–
–

–

370,993
 – 
 370,993 

As at 31 Dec 2020
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 2019
₦’million

As at 31 Dec 
2020
$’000

As at 31 Dec 
2019
$’000

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–

2020
₦ million
(7,160)

1
–
–
(277)
–
–
–
–
2,383
1,856
–
–

172,668
–
(2)
–
(62,412)
–
(7,696)
99,361

 6,579 
 1,014 
 2,376 
 5,973 
 – 

 (821)
 (212)
 (21,910)
 158 
 –
 (6,843)

 171 
 171 

2019
₦ million
 79,613 

 27,821 
 907 
 12,784 
 (4,702)
 8,890 
 164 
 1,075 
 2,385 
 (588)
 2,864 
 309 
 (9,462)

 (113,396)
 6,083 
(11,478)
 (2,199)
 73,668 
 5,003 
 (1,007)
78,734

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–

 21,435 
 3,303 
 7,741 
 19,463 
–

 (2,674)
 (690)
 (71,388)
 514 
–
 (22,296)

 558 
 558 

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

(19,897)

 259,411 

3
–
–
(770)
–
–
–
–
6,621
5,157
–
–

479,749
–
(5)
–
(173,410)
–
(21,383)
276,065

 90,647 
 2,955 
 41,652 
 (15,321)
 28,966 
 534 
 3,501 
 7,770 
 (1,916)
 9,223 
 1,005 
 (30,830)

 (369,472)
 19,817 
(37,396)
 (7,163)
 240,029 
 16,301 
 (3,280)
256,433

271

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202017.  Property, plant and equipment

17.1  Oil and gas properties 

Cost

At 1 January 2019

Additions

Transfers

Disposal of producing assets

Changes in decommissioning

Interest capitalised

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

Depreciation

At 1 January 2019

Charge for the year

Disposal of producing assets

Exchange differences

At 31 December 2019

NBV

At 31 December 2019

Cost

At 1 January 2020
Transfers to Seplat West Ltd
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Transfers to Seplat West Ltd
At 31 December 2020
NBV
At 31 December 2020

17.2  Disposal of oil and gas properties

Purchase consideration for disposal of oil and gas assets
Net book value of Production and Field Facilities:

Cost
Depreciation

17.3  Purchase consideration

Cash received
Purchase consideration outstanding

Production and  
field facilities
₦ million
 371,722 

Assets under 
construction
₦ million
 41,612 

 28,406 

 19,567 

 (28,126)

 (3,745)

 – 

 5 

 961 

 (19,567)

 – 

–

 6,308 

 (3)

Total
₦ million
 413,334 

 29,367 

–

 (28,126)

 (3,745)

 6,308 

 2 

Production and  
field facilities
$’000

Assets under 
construction
$’000

Total
$’000

 1,210,820 

 135,544 

 1,346,364 

 92,553 

 63,755 

 (91,643)

 (12,199)

 – 

 – 

 3,132 

 (63,755)

 – 

 – 

 20,554 

 – 

 95,685 

 – 

 (91,643)

 (12,199)

 20,554 

 – 

 387,829 

 29,311 

 417,140 

 1,263,286 

 95,475 

 1,358,761 

 147,243 

 26,523 

 (6,522)

 8 

 167,252 

 – 

 – 

–

 – 

 – 

 147,243 

 26,523 

 (6,522)

 8 

 479,621 

 86,417 

 (21,244)

–

 167,252 

 544,794 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 – 

 479,621 

 86,417 

 (21,244)

–

 544,794 

 220,577 

 29,311 

 249,888 

 718,492 

 95,475 

 813,967 

Production and  
field facilities
$’000

Assets under 
construction
$’000

Production and  
field facilities
₦ million
 387,829 
 (387,829)
–

Assets under 
construction
₦ million
 29,311 
 (29,311) 
–

 167,252 
 (167,252) 
–

–

 – 
 – 
–

–

Total
₦ million
 417,140 
 (417,140) 
–

 167,252 
 (167,252)
–

 1,263,286 
(1,263,286)
–

 544,794 
 (544,794) 
–

–

–

 95,475 
(95,475)
–

 – 
 – 
–

–

Total
$’000

 1,358,761 
(1,358,761)
–

 544,794 
 (544,794) 
–

–

2019
$’000

 2020
₦ million

 2019
₦ million

2020
$’000

–
–

28,126
(6,522)

–
–

 91,643 
 (21,244)

 2020
₦ million
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 15,532 
 15,534
31,066

 2020
$’000

–
–
–

2019
$’000

 50,614 
 50,615
101,229

* Approximately 50% of the proceeds expected from the disposal of oil and gas assets have been paid, the other 50% is recognised within the receivables. Assets under construction 
represent costs capitalised in connection with the development of the Company’s oil fields and other property, plant and equipment not yet ready for their intended use. Some of which 
are qualifying assets which take a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use. The capitalisation rate used to determine the amount of borrowing costs to be capitalised 
is the weighted average interest rate applicable to the Company’s general borrowings denominated in dollars during the year was nil (2019: 12.3%).

Borrowing costs capitalised during the year was nil (2019: ₦8 billion, $26 million).

272

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Leasehold 
improvements
₦ million
 1,200 
–
(1,200)
–
–

Land
₦ million
 21 
–
(21)
–
–

Buildings
₦ million
 1,194 
–
(1,194)
–
–

17.4  Other property, plant and equipment

Plant & 
machinery
₦ million
 1,518 
15
(1,518)
1
16

 1,391 
(1,391)
1
1

Motor  
vehicle
₦ million
 2,979 
274
(2,979)
15
289

 2,187 
(2,187)
–
–

Office  
furniture  
& IT  
equipment
₦ million
 5,725 
–
(5,725)
–
–

 4,562 
(4,562)
–
–

15

289

–

 1,490 
 29 
 – 
 (1)
 1,518 

 1,243 
–
 149 
 (1)
 1,391 

 2,610 
 369 
 – 
 – 
 2,979 

 1,950 
–
 236 
 1 
 2,187 

 4,470 
 1,254 
 – 
 1 
 5,725 

 4,220 
–
 342 
–
 4,562 

127 

792 

1,163

 895 
(895)
–
–

–

 913 
 287 
 – 
 – 
 1,200 

 785 
–
 110 
 – 
 895 

305 

Plant & 
machinery
$’000

Motor  
vehicle
$’000

Office furniture  
& IT equipment
$’000

Leasehold 
improvements
$’000

 4,945 
41
(4,945)
41

 4,532 
3
 (4,532)
3

 9,704 
761
(9,704)
761

 7,124 
–
 (7,124)
–

 18,647 
–
(18,647)
–

 14,858 
–
 (14,858)
 – 

 3,908 
–
(3,908)
–

 2,916 
–
 (2,916)
 – 

38

761

 – 

 – 

 4,852 
 93 

 4,945 

 4,048 
 484 
 – 
 4,532 

 8,503 
 1,201 
 – 
 9,704 

 6,356 
 768 
 – 
 7,124 

 14,560 
 4,087 
 – 
 18,647 

 13,745 
 1,113 
 – 
 14,858 

 2,973 
 935 
 – 
 3,908 

 2,556 
 360 
 – 
 2,916 

Cost 

At 1 January 2020
Additions
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
Exchange difference
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2020
NBV 
At 31 December 2020

Cost 

At 1 January 2019
Addition
Disposal
Exchange differences
At 31 December 2019
Depreciation
At 1 January 2019
Disposals
Charge for the year
Exchange differences
31 December 2020
NBV
31 December 2019

Cost 

At 1 January 2020
Additions 
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
At 31 December 2020
Depreciation
At 1 January 2020
Charge for the year
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
At 31 December 2020
NBV 
At 31 December 2020

Cost 

At 1 January 2019
Addition
Disposal
At 31 December 2019
Depreciation
At 1 January 2019
Charge for the year
Disposal
At 31 December 2019
NBV 
At 31 December 2019

Total
₦ million
12,637
289
(12,637)
16
305

 9,055 
(9,055)
1
1

304

 9,483 
 3,154 
–
–
12,637

8,198
– 
 857 
 – 
 9,055 

 20 
(20)
–
–

–

 1,194 
 – 
 – 
 1,194 

–
 – 
 20 
 – 
 20 

1,174 

3,582 

Buildings
$’000

 3,890 
–
(3,890)
–

 66 
–
 (66)
 – 

 – 

 – 
 3,890 
 – 
 3,890 

 – 
 66 
–
 66 

Total
$’000

 41,162 
802
(41,162)
802

 29,496 
3
(29,496)
3

799

 30,888 
 10,274 
 – 
 41,162 

 26,705 
 2,791 
 – 
 29,496 

 – 
–
–
–

–

 21 
–
–
 21 

–
–
–
–
 – 

21 

Land

 68 
–
(68)
–

 – 
–
–
 – 

 – 

 – 
 68 
 – 
 68 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 413 

 2,580 

 3,789 

 992 

 68 

 3,824 

 11,666 

273

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202017.  Property, plant and equipment continued

17.5  Depletion, depreciation and amortisation

Oil and gas properties
Amortisation of intangible asset
Charged to cost of sales
Charged to general and administrative expense
Total depletion, depreciation and amortisation

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 26,523 
 441 
 26,964 
 857 
 27,821 

18. 

Intangible assets

Cost 

At 1 January 2020
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
At 31 December 2020
Amortisation charge
At 1 January 2020
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
At 31 December 2020
NBV 
At 31 December 2020

Cost 

At 1 January 2019
Additions
At 31 December 2019
Amortisation charge
At 1 January 2019
Charge for the year
At 31 December 2019
NBV 
At 31 December 2019

19.  Right-of-use asset

As at 1 January
Additions during the year
Less: depreciation for the period
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
As at 31 December

20.  Prepayments

Non-current

Rent 
Advances to suppliers

Current
Rent
Crude oil hedge
Other prepayments

2020
₦ million
3,397
–
–
(3,397)
–

 2020
₦ million
–
–
–

–
–
2
2
2

2019
₦ million
4,216
88
(907)
–
3,397

2019
₦ million
 301 
 18,927 
 19,228 

 283 
 839 
 357 
 1,479 
 20,707

 2020
$’000

–
–
–
–
–

₦ million
 9,070 
(9,070) 
–

 517 
(517) 
–

–

 9,070 
–
 9,070 

 76 
 441 
 517 

2019
$’000

 86,417 
 1,439 
 87,856 
 2,791 
 90,647 

$’000

 29,543 
(29,543) 
–

 1,685 
 (1,685) 
–

–

 29,543 
–
 29,543 

 246 
 1,439 
 1,685 

 8,553 

 27,858 

 2020
$’000

11,064
–
–
(11,064)
–

 2020
$’000

–
–
–

–
–
5
5
5

2019
$’000

13,734
285
(2,955)
–
11,064

2019
$’000

 979 
 61,654 
 62,633 

 921 
 2,730 
 1,163 
 4,814 
67,447

20.1  Advances to suppliers
Advances to suppliers relate to a milestone payment made to finance the construction of the Amukpe Escravos Pipeline Project and other 
related facilities. At the end of the reporting period, there was no advance paid to suppliers (2019: ₦18.9 billion, $61.6 million). 

20.2  Other prepayments
Included in other prepayments are prepaid service charge expenses for office buildings, health insurance, software licence maintenance, 
motor insurance premium and crude oil handling fees. 

274

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202021. 

Investment in subsidiaries

Newton Energy Limited
Seplat Petroleum Development Company UK Limited
Seplat East Onshore Limited
Seplat East Swamp Company Limited
Seplat Gas Company Limited
Eland Oil and Gas Limited
Seplat West Limited

21.1 

Interest in other entities

Name of entity

Newton Energy Limited
Seplat Petroleum Development 
Company UK Limited

Country of 
incorporation  
& place of business

Nigeria

United Kingdom

Seplat East Onshore Limited
Seplat East Swamp Company 
Limited

Nigeria

Nigeria

Seplat Gas Company Limited

Nigeria

Eland Oil and Gas Limited

United Kingdom

Seplat West Limited

Nigeria

21.2  Reconciliation of investment in subsidiary

At 1 January 2020
Increase in Investment (Seplat West)
Capital contribution (Note 31)
At 31 December 2020

At 1 January 2019
Acquisition of subsidiary (Eland Oil and Gas Limited)
Deconsolidation of subsidiary (Anoh Gas Limited)
At 31 December 2019

21.3  Purchase consideration – cash outflow

Purchase consideration

Less: Liabilities assumed
Fair value of outstanding payment
Exchange difference
Net outflow of cash – investing activities

 2020
₦ million
 290 
 15 
 10 
 10 
 10 
 149,719 
443,371
 593,425 

2019
₦ million
 290 
 15 
 10 
 10 
 10 
 149,719 
–
 150,054 

 2020
$’000

 950 
 50 
 32 
 32 
 32 
 487,683 
1,444,204
 1,932,983 

2019
$’000

 950 
 50 
 32 
 32 
 32 
 487,683 
–
 488,779 

As at 31 Dec  
2020

As at 31 Dec 
2019

As at 31 Dec 
2020

As at 31 Dec 
2019

As at 31 Dec 
2020

As at 31 Dec 
2019

Percentage of  
ownership interest

Carrying  
amount

%

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

%

100

100

100

100

100

100

–

₦’million

₦’million

290

290

15

10

10

10

15

10

10

10

$’000

950

50

32

32

32

$’000

950

50

32

32

32

149,719

443,371

149,719

487,683

487,683

–

1,444,204

–

2020
₦ million
150,054
10
443,361
593,425

2019
₦ million
345
149,719
(10)
150,054

2019
₦ million
149,719

(1,549)
 (43)
 148,127 

2020
$’000

488,779
33
1,444,171
1,932,983

2019
$’000

1,129
487,683
(33)
488,779

2019
$’000

487,683

(5,046)
–
 482,637 

275

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
22. 

Investment in joint ventures

Cost

22.1  Reconciliation of investment in joint venture

As 1 January
Reclassified from investment in subsidiary (Anoh Gas Processing Limited)
Loss on disposal of investment in subsidiary (AGPC)
Additional investment in joint venture (AGPC) 
Exchange difference
At 31 December 

22.2  Reconciliation of additional investment in joint venture

Cash paid in the current period
Amount reclassified from other receivables

 31 December 
2020
₦ million
79,806

31 December 
2019
₦ million
 46,055 

31 December 
2020
$’000

31 December 
2019
$’000

210,016

 150,016 

 31 December 
2020
₦ million
46,055
–
–
21,595
12,156
79,806

31 December 
2019
₦ million
–
10
(5)
46,051
(1)
46,055

31 December 
2020
$’000

31 December 
2019
$’000

150,016
–
–
60,000
–
210,016

–
33
(17)
150,000
–
150,016

As at 31 Dec 2020 
₦’million
21,595
–
21,595

As at 31 Dec 2019 
₦’million
31,627
14,424
46,051

As at 31 Dec 2020 
$’000

As at 31 Dec 2019 
$’000

60,000
–
60,000

103,050
46,950
150,000

Name of entity

ANOH Gas Processing  
Company Limited 

23. 

Inventories

Tubulars, casings and wellheads 

Country of 
incorporation and 
place of business

Nigeria

Percentage of ownership 
interest

Carrying  
amount

As at 31 Dec 
2020

As at 31 Dec 
2019

As at 31 Dec 
2020

As at 31 Dec 
2019

As at 31 Dec 
2020

As at 31 Dec 
2019

%

50

%

50

₦’million

₦’million

$’000

$’000

79,806

46,055

210,016

150,016

 2020
₦ million
–

2019
₦ million
24,315

 2020
$’000

–

2019
$’000

79,205

Inventory represents the value of tubulars, casings and wellheads. The inventory is carried at the lower of cost and net realisable value. 
Inventory charged to profit or loss and included in cost of sales during the year was nil (2019: ₦0.9 billion, $3 million). There was no write down 
or reversal of previously recognised write down of inventory for the year ended 31 December 2020.

24.  Trade and other receivables

Trade receivables
Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) receivables 
Intercompany receivables
Advances on investments
Advances to related parties
Advances to suppliers
Receivables from joint venture (Anoh)
Other receivables 

 2020
₦ million
–
–
313
–
–
–
178
10
501

Other receivables are transactions outside the usual operating activities of the Company.

24.1  Reconciliation of trade receivables

Balance as at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Transfer to Seplat West
Exchange differences
Gross carrying amount
Less: impairment allowance
Balance as at 31 December

276

2020
₦’million
 32,555 
–
–
(32,555)
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 32,555 
 52,189 
 311,903 
 12,512 
 – 
 4,347 
 3,848 
 6,121 
 423,475 

2019
₦’million
 27,203 
 8,787 
 (3,025)
–
 (2)
 32,963 
 (408)
 32,555 

 2020
$’000

–
–
824
–
–
–
469
27
1,320

2020
$’000

 106,043
–
–
 (106,043)
–
–
–
–

2019
$’000

 106,043 
 169,997 
 1,015,971 
 40,757 
 – 
 14,160 
 12,536 
 19,940 
 1,379,404 

2019
$’000

 88,608 
 28,620 
 (9,856)
–
 – 
107,372
 (1,329)
 106,043

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202024.2  Reconciliation of impairment allowance trade receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January
Increase/(decrease) in loss allowance during the period
Transfer to Seplat West
Exchange difference 
Loss allowance as at 31 December

2020
₦’million
408
–
(408)
–
–

2019
₦’million
122
287

(1)
408

2020
$’000

1,329
–
(1,329)
–
–

2019
$’000

396
933

–
1,329

Increase in expected credit loss on trade receivables to due to increase in the receivable balance at the end of the period.

24.3  Reconciliation of NPDC receivables

Balance as at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Transfer to Seplat West
Exchange difference
Gross carrying amount
Less: impairment allowance
Balance as at 31 December

24.4  Reconciliation of impairment allowance NPDC receivables

Loss allowance as at 1 January
Increase in loss allowance during the period
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible
Exchange difference
Loss allowance as at 31 December

24.5  Reconciliation of intercompany receivables

Balance as at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
Exchange difference
Gross carrying amount
Less: impairment allowance
Balance as at 31 December

25.  Contract assets

Revenue on gas sales (Note 25.1)

2020
₦’million
 52,189 
–
–
(52,189)
–
–
–
–

2020
₦’million
448
–
(448)
–
–
–

2020
₦’million
 311,903 
297
(153,135)
(181,281)
22,529
313
–
313

2019
₦’million
 – 
 339,930 
 (287,308)

 15 
52,637 
(448)
 52,189 

2019
₦’million
2,475
12,836
–
(14,871)
8
448

2019
₦’million
256,874
350,120
(293,501)
–
15
313,508
(1,605)
 311,903 

2020
$’000

169,997 
–
–
(169,997)
–
–
–
–

2020
$’000

1,460
–
(1,460)
–
–  
–

2020
$’000

 1,015,971 
824
 (425,478) 
(590,493)
–
824
–
824

2019
$’000

 – 
 1,107,587 
 (936,130)
–
 – 
 171,457 
 (1,460)
 169,997 

2019
$’000

8,086
41,813
–
(48,439)
–
1,460

2019
$’000

 836,723 
 1,140,782 
 (956,311)
–
 – 
 1,021,194 
(5,223)
 1,015,971 

2020
₦’million
–

2019
₦’million
6,527

2020
$’000

–

2019
$’000

21,259

A contract asset is an entity’s right to consideration in exchange for goods or services that the entity has transferred to a customer. The 
Company has recognised an asset in relation to a contract with NGMC for the delivery of Gas supplies which NGMC has received but which 
has not been invoiced as at the end of the reporting period. 

The terms of payments relating to the contract is between 30-45 days from the invoice date. However, invoices are raised after delivery 
between 14-21 days when the receivable amount has been established and the right to the receivables crystallises. The right to the unbilled 
receivables is recognised as a contract asset. At the point where the final billing certificate is obtained from NGMC authorising the quantities, 
this will be reclassified from contract assets to trade receivables.

25.1  Reconciliation of contract assets
The movement in the Company’s contract assets is as detailed below:

As at 1 January
Additions during the year
Receipts for the year
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
Exchange difference
As at 31 December 

2020
₦’million
6,527
–
–
(6,527)
–
–

2019
₦’million
4,327
52,275
(50,077)
–
2
6,527

2020
$’000

21,259
–
–
(21,259)
–
–

2019
$’000

14,096
170,327
(163,164)
–
–
21,259

277

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202026.  Derivative financial instruments

The Company uses its derivatives for economic hedging purposes and not as speculative investments. However, where derivatives do not 
meet the hedge accounting criteria, they are accounted for at fair value through profit or loss. They are presented as current assets to the 
extent they are expected to be settled within 12 months after the reporting period.

Crude oil hedges

27.  Cash and bank balances 

2020
₦’million
–

2019
₦’million
 308 

2020
$’000

–

2019
$’000

 1,002 

Cash and bank balances in the statement of financial position comprise of cash at bank and on hand, short-term deposits with a maturity of 
three months or less and restricted cash balances.

Cash on hand
Short-term fixed deposits
Cash at bank
Gross cash and cash equivalent
Loss allowance
Net cash and cash equivalents per statement  
of cash flow
Restricted cash
Cash and bank balance

2020
₦’million
–
151
61,799
61,950
–

61,950
10,671
72,621

2019
₦’million
2
7,304
73,972
81,278
(15)

81,263
2,056
83,319

2020
$’000

–
397
162,627
163,024
–

163,024
28,081
191,105

2019
$’000

8
23,794
240,949
264,751
(51)

264,700
6,698
271,398

Included in restricted cash, is a balance of $7.2 million (₦2.7 billion) set aside in the Stamping Reserve account for the revolving credit facility 
(RCF). The amount is to be used for the settlement of all fees and costs payable for the purposes of stamping and registering the Security 
Documents at the stamp duties office and at the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). The amounts are restricted for a period of three (3) 
years, which is the contractual period of the RCF. These amounts are subject to legal restrictions and are therefore not available for general 
use by the Company. These amounts have therefore been excluded from cash and bank balances for the purposes of cash flow.

An additional $20.8 million, ₦7.9 billion, of funds deposited in Access bank Plc bank accounts in the ordinary course of business are being 
unilaterally restricted by Access bank Plc in connection with the court case between Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc and Access 
Bank Plc.

28.  Share capital

28.1 

 Authorised and issued share capital

Authorised ordinary share capital
1,000,000,000 ordinary shares denominated in Naira of 50 kobo per share
Issued and fully paid
581,840,856 (2019: 575,321,598) issued shares denominated in Naira of 50 
kobo per share

2020
₦’million

2019
₦’million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

500

293

500

289

3,335

3,335

1,855

1,845

Fully paid ordinary shares carry one vote per share and the right to dividends. There were no restrictions on the Company’s share capital.

28.2 

 Movement in share capital and other reserves

Number of 
shares

 575,321,598 
–
6,519,258
581,840,856

Number of
 shares

 575,321,598 
–
6,519,258
581,840,856

Issued share 
capital
₦’million
 289 
–
 4 
 293 

Share premium
₦’million
 84,045 
–
2,872
 86,917 

Share-based 
payment reserve
₦’million
 8,194 
1,856
 (2,876)
7,174

Issued share 
capital
$’000

Share premium
$’000

Share-based 
payment reserve
$’000

 1,845 
–
 10 
 1,855 

 503,742 
–
 7,981 
 511,723 

 30,426 
5,157
 (7,991)
27,592

Total
₦’million
 92,528 
1,856
 – 
 94,384 

Total
$’000

 536,013 
5,157
 – 
541,170

Opening balance as at 1 January 2020
Share-based payments
Vested shares
Closing balance as at 31 December 2020

Opening balance as at 1 January 2020
Share-based payments
Vested shares
Closing balance as at 31 December 2020

278

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
28.3 

 Share premium 

Share premium

2020
₦ million
86,917

2019
₦ million
84,045

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

511,723

503,742

Section 120.2 of Companies and Allied Matters Act, CAP C20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 requires that where a company issues 
shares at premium (i.e. above the par value), the value of the premium should be transferred to share premium.

During the year, an additional 6,519,258 shares vested with a fair value of $7.99 million. The excess of $7.98 million above the nominal value of 
ordinary shares have been recognised in share premium.

28.4  Employee share-based payment scheme
As at 31 December 2020, the Company had awarded 60,487,999 shares (2019: 48,400,563 shares) to certain employees and senior executives 
in line with its share-based incentive scheme. Included in the share-based incentive schemes are two additional schemes (2019 Deferred 
Bonus and 2020 LTIP Scheme) awarded during the reporting period. During the reporting period, 4,700,028 shares had vested out of which 
381,117 shares were forfeited in relation to participants whose employment was terminated during the vesting period. Also, the reserves 
growth underpins (non-market performance condition) which was partially achieved (at 81.4%) resulted in a further reduction in the number 
of shares vested by 1,379,283. The total number of shares forfeited during the period amount to 1,760,400. The number of shares that 
eventually vested during the year after the forfeiture and conditions above is 6,519,258 (Dec 2019: 6,824,573 shares were vested).

Description of the awards valued

i. 
The Company has made a number of share-based awards under incentive plans since its IPO in 2014: IPO-related grants to Executive and 
Non-Executive Directors, 2018/2019 deferred bonus awards and 2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) awards. Shares under these incentive 
plans were awarded at the IPO in April 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 conditional on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) approving the 
share delivery mechanism proposed by the Company. A number of these awards have fully vested.

Seplat Deferred Bonus Award  
25% of each Executive Director’s 2019 bonus (paid in 2020) has been deferred into shares and released on 1 June 2017, 1 June 2018, 20 April 
2019 respectively subject to continued employment over the vesting period. The 2018 bonus is expected to be released on 31 December 2020. 
No performance criteria are attached to this award. As a result, the fair value of these awards is calculated using a Black Scholes model.

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) awards 
Under the LTIP Plan, shares are granted to management staff of the organisation at the end of every year. The shares were granted to the 
employees at no cost. The shares vest (after three years) based on the following conditions:

• 25% vesting for median relative TSR performance rising to 100% for upper quartile performance on a straight-line basis.

• Relative TSR vesting reduced by 75% if 60% and below of operational and technical bonus metrics are achieved, with 35% reduction if 70% 

of operational and technical bonus metrics are achieved and no reduction for 80% or above achievement.

• If the Company outperforms the median TSR performance level with the LTIP exploration and production comparator group.

The LTIP awards have been approved by the NSE.

Share-based payment expenses

ii. 
The expense recognised for employee services received during the year is shown in the following table:

Expense arising from equity-settled share-based payment transactions

2020
₦’million
1,856

2019
₦’million
 2,864 

2020
$’000

5,157

2019
$’000

 9,223 

There were no cancellations to the awards in 2020. The share awards granted to Executive Directors and confirmed employees are 
summarised below:

Scheme

Global Bonus Offer
Non-Executive Shares
2014 Deferred Bonus
2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan
2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan
2015 Deferred Bonus
2016 Long-Term Incentive Plan
2016 Deferred Bonus
2017 Long-Term Incentive Plan
2017 Deferred Bonus
2018 Long-Term Incentive Plan
2018 Deferred Bonus
2019 Long-Term Incentive Plan
2019 Deferred Bonus
2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan
2020 Long-Term Incentive Plan

Deemed  
grant date

4 November 2015
4 November 2015
14 December 2015
14 December 2015
31 December 2015
21 April 2016
22 December 2016
24 November 2017
24 November 2017
29 December 2017
2 May 2018
2 May 2019
2 May 2019
30 Apr 2020
30 Apr 2020
2 Dec 2020

Start of  
service period

9 April 2014
9 April 2014
14 December 2015
14 December 2015
14 December 2015
21 April 2016
22 December 2016
24 November 2017
24 November 2017
29 December 2017
2 May 2018
2 May 2019
2 May 2019
30 Apr 2020
30 Apr 2020
2 Dec 2020

End of  
service period

9 April 2015
9 April 2015
21 April 2017
9 April 2017
21 April 2018
20 April 2018
21 December 2019
20 April 2019
20 April 2020
31 December 2019
1 May 2021
31 December 2020
2 May 2022
31 Dec 2021
1 May 2023
2 Dec 2023

Vesting 
status

Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Fully
Partially
Fully
Partially
Partially
Partially
Partially
Partially
Partially

Number of 
awards

6,472,138
793,650
212,701
2,173,259
5,287,354
247,610
10,294,300
278,191
7,938,589
193,830
6,519,022
 341,069 
 7,648,850 
214,499
10,762,880
1,110,057
60,487,999

279

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202028.  Share capital continued

Determination of share awards outstanding

iii. 
Share awards used in the calculation of diluted earnings per shares are based on the outstanding shares as at 31 December 2020.

Share award scheme (all awards)

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Exercise during the year
Forfeited during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

Share award scheme (all awards)

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Exercised during the year
Forfeited during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

2020
Number

 12,386,617 
4,700,028 
 (6,519,258)
 (1,760,400)
8,806,987
–

2020
Number

 12,386,617 
4,700,028 
 (6,519,258)
 (1,760,400)
8,806,987
 – 

2020
WAEP ₦ 
474
395
–
–
843
–

2020
WAEP $ 

1.54
1.04
–
–
2.22
–

2019
Number

 12,350,871 
 10,802,067 
 (6,824,573)
 (3,941,748)
 12,386,617 
– 

2019
Number

 12,350,871 
 10,802,067 
 (6,824,573)
 (3,941,748)
 12,386,617 
 – 

2019
WAEP ₦
 310 
 387 
–
–
 474 
 – 

2019
WAEP $

 1.01 
 1.26 
–
–
 1.54 
 – 

The following table illustrates the number and weighted average exercise prices (WAEP) of and movements in deferred bonus scheme and 
long-term incentive plan during the year for each available scheme.

Deferred Bonus Scheme

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

Deferred Bonus Scheme

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Forfeited during the year
Exercised during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

2020
Number

 136,091 
 291,129 
 –
 (341,069) 
 86,151 
 – 

2020
Number

 136,091 
 291,129 
 –
 (341,069) 
 86,151 
 – 

2020
WAEP ₦ 
572
525
–
–
236
–

2020
WAEP $

1.86
1.38
–
–
0.62
–

2019
Number

315,603
292,509
–
 (472,021)
136,092
 – 

2019
Number

 315,603 
 292,509 
–
 (472,021)
 136,092 
 – 

2019
WAEP ₦
451
522
–
–
 572 
–

2019
WAEP $

1.47
1.70
–
–
 1.86 
 – 

280

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020The fair value of the modified options was determined using the same models and principles as described in the table below on the inputs to 
the models used for the scheme.

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)

Outstanding at 1 January

Granted during the year
Exercised during the year
Forfeited during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP)

Outstanding at 1 January
Granted during the year
Exercised during the year
Forfeited during the year
Outstanding at 31 December
Vested and exercisable at 31 December

2020
Number

 12,250,525 

4,700,028 
(6,178,189)
(1,760,400)
12,478,836
–

2020
Number

 12,250,525 
4,700,028 
(6,178,189)
(1,760,400)
12,478,836
–

2020
WAEP ₦ 

209

390
–
–
509
–

2020
WAEP $

0.68
1.03
–
–
1.34
–

2019
Number

12,035,268

10,509,557
 (6,352,552)
 (3,941,748)
12,250,525
 – 

2019
Number

12,035,268
10,509,557
 (6,352,552)
 (3,941,748)
12,250,525
 – 

2019
WAEP ₦

361

362
–
–
 209 
 – 

2019
WAEP $

1.18
1.18
–
–
 0.68 
 – 

The shares are granted to the employees at no cost. The weighted average remaining contractual life for the share awards outstanding as at 
31 December 2020 range from 0.3 to 3 years (2019: 0.3 to 2.3 years).

The weighted average fair value of awards granted during the year range from ₦142.8 to ₦235.98, (2019: ₦362.26 to ₦521.9), $0.32 to $0.68 
(2019: $1.18 to $1.70).

The fair value at grant date is independently determined using the Monte Carlo Model which takes into account the exercise price, the term  
of the option, the share price at grant date and expected price volatility of the underlying share, the expected dividend yield, the risk-free 
interest rate for the term of the option and the correlations and volatilities of the peer group companies. 

The expected price volatility is based on the historic volatility (based on the remaining life of the options), adjusted for any expected changes 
to future volatility due to publicly available information.

Inputs to the models

iv. 
The following table lists the inputs to the models used for the share awards outstanding in the respective plans for the year ended 31 
December 2020:

2018
LTIP

2019
LTIP

2019
Deferred Bonus

2020
LTIP

Weighted average fair values at the  
measurement date
Dividend yield (%)
Expected volatility (%)
Risk-free interest rate (%)
Expected life of share options
Share price at grant date ($)
Share price at grant date (₦)
Model used

29.  Capital contribution

0.00%
41%
0.83%
3.00
1.93
521.51

0.00%
43%
0.44%
3.00
0.44
135.38
Monte Carlo Monte Carlo Black Scholes Monte Carlo

0.00%
35%
0.76%
3.00
1.7
521.9

0.00%
56%
0.63%
1.67
0.62
190.15

This represents M&P additional cash contribution to the Company. In accordance with the Shareholders’ Agreement, the amount was used by 
the Company for working capital as was required at the commencement of operations.

Capital contribution

30.  Foreign currency translation reserve

2020
₦ million
5,932

2019
₦ million
5,932

2020
$’000

40,000

2019
$’000

40,000

Cumulative exchange difference arising from translation of the Company’s results and financial position into the presentation currency and 
from translation of foreign subsidiary is taken to foreign currency translation reserve through other comprehensive income.

281

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202031.  Summary of net assets transferred

During the year, Seplat Plc transferred the assets and liabilities of OML 4, OML 38 and OML 41 to Seplat West Limited (see Note 2 significant 
changes in the current accounting period) resulting in a net transfer of $1.4 billion (₦443 billion), which was recognised as an additional 
investment in subsidiary (Note 21). 

Summary of net assets transferred from Seplat Plc to Seplat West Ltd

Assets

Non-current assets
Oil & Gas properties
Other property, plant and equipment
Right-of-use assets
Intangible assets
Prepayment
Deferred tax asset

Current assets
Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Prepayments
Contract assets
Derivative financial instruments
Cash and bank balances

Total assets

Liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Lease liabilities
Provision for decommissioning
Defined benefit plan

Current liabilities
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings
Contract liabilities
Current tax liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets transferred

At 1 January 2020
₦ million

At 1 January 2020
$’000

 249,888 
 3,581 
 3,397 
 8,552 
 19,228 
 37,610 
 322,256 

 24,316 
 275,789 
 1,478 
 6,527 
 308 
 77,583 
 386,001 
708,257

 193,349 
 2,367 
 34,988 
 3,011 
 233,715 

 21,295 
 5,004 
4,882
 31,181 
264,896

 813,967 
 11,666 
 11,064 
 27,858 
 62,633 
 122,508 
 1,049,696 

 79,205 
 898,335 
 4,814 
 21,259 
 1,002 
 252,713 
 1,257,328 
2,307,024

 629,800 
 7,709 
 113,968 
 9,808 
 761,285 

 69,366 
 16,301 
15,901
 101,568 
862,853

443,361

1,444,171

32. 

Interest-bearing loans and borrowings

32.1  Net debt reconciliation
During the year, the Company became a holding Company and transferred the interest-bearing loans and borrowings to Seplat West Limited 
(see significant changes on page 8). 

Below is the net debt reconciliation on non-current and current interest-bearing loans and borrowings for 2019:

Balance as at 1 January 2019
Principal repayment
Interest repayment
Interest accrued 
Other financing charges
Proceeds from loan financing
Exchange difference
Carrying amount as at 31 December 2019

Borrowings due 
within  
1 year
₦ million
 3,031 
 (3,029)
 (10,364)
 15,198 
 (2,696)
 19,151 
 4 
 21,295 

Borrowings due 
above  
1 year
₦ million
 133,799 
 (27,662)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 87,195 
 17 
 193,349 

Borrowings due 
within  
1 year
$’000

Borrowings due 
above  
1 year
$’000

 9,872 
 (9,872)
 (33,770)
 49,520 
 (8,783)
 62,399 
 – 
 69,366 

 435,827 
 (90,128)
 – 
 – 
 – 
 284,101 
 – 
 629,800 

 Total 
₦ million
 136,830 
 (30,691)
 (10,364)
 15,198 
 (2,696)
 106,346 
 21 
 214,644 

 Total 
$’000

 445,699 
 (100,000)
 (33,770)
 49,520 
 (8,783)
 346,500 
 – 
 699,166 

282

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202032.2  Amortised cost of borrowings

Senior loan notes
Revolving loan facilities

2020
₦’million
–
–
–

2019
₦’million
 107,237 
 107,407 
 214,644 

2020
$’000

–
–
–

2019
$’000

 349,278 
 349,888 
 699,166 

$350 million Senior notes – March 2018
Interest-bearing loans and borrowings include senior notes. In March 2018 the Company issued ₦107 billion ($350 million) senior notes at a 
contractual interest rate of 9.25% with interest payable each year on 1 April and 1 October, and principal repayable as a bullet at maturity.  
The notes are scheduled to mature in June 2023. The interest accrued up at the reporting date is ₦12.5 billion ($34.7 million) using an effective 
interest rate of 10.3%. Transaction costs of ₦2.1 billion ($7 million) have been included in the amortised cost balance at the end of the 
reporting period. The amortised cost for the senior notes at the reporting period is nil (December 2019: ₦107.2 billion, $349.3 million).

$200 million Revolving credit facility – March 2018 
The Company entered into a four-year revolving loan agreement with interest payable semi-annually and principal repayable on 31 December 
of each year. The revolving loan has an initial contractual interest rate of 6% +LIBOR (7.7%) and a settlement date of June 2022.

The interest rate of the facility is variable. The Company made a drawdown of ₦61 billion, $199 million in March 2018. The interest accrued at 
the reporting period is ₦0.2 billion (Sept 2018: ₦2.89 billion) using an effective interest rate of 9.8% (Sept 2018: 9.4%). The interest paid was 
determined using three-month LIBOR rate + 6% on the last business day of the reporting period.

In October 2018, the Company made principal repayments on the four-year revolving facility for a lump sum of ₦30.7 billion, $100 million. The 
repayment was accounted for as a prepayment of the outstanding loan facility. The gross carrying amount of the facility was recalculated as 
the present value of the estimated future contractual cash flows that are discounted using the effective interest rate at the last reporting 
period. Gain or loss on modifications are recognised immediately as part of interest accrued on the facility. 

$350 million Revolving credit facility – December 2019
The Company on 20 December 2019 also entered into a four-year revolving loan agreement with interest payable semi-annually. There is a 
two-year moratorium on the principal which ends on 31 December 2021. The revolving loan has an initial contractual interest rate of 6% 
+LIBOR (7.9%) and a settlement date of 31 December 2023. 

The interest rate of the facility is variable. The Company made a drawdown of ₦107.45 billion, $350 million as at year end. The interest  
accrued at the reporting period is ₦3.58 billion, $1.1 million using an effective interest rate of 10.2%. The interest paid was determined using 
three-month LIBOR rate + 6% on the last business day of the reporting period.

32.3  Outstanding principal exposures
The following is the analysis of the principal outstanding showing the lenders of the facility as at the year end:

31 December 2019

Interest

Current
₦ million

Non-current
₦ million

Total
₦ million

Current
$’000

Non-current
$’000

Total
$’000

9.25

6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR

Fixed interest rate
Senior notes:
Variable interest rate
Corporate loan:
Citibank, N.A., London Branch
Nedbank Limited London
Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc
The Standard Bank of  
South Africa Limited
6.0% +LIBOR
RMB International (Mauritius) Limited 6.0% +LIBOR
The Mauritius Commercial Bank Ltd
6.0% +LIBOR
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.,  
London Branch
Standard Chartered Bank
Natixis 
Société Générale, London Branch
Zenith Bank Plc
United Bank for Africa Plc
First City Monument Bank Limited
Total variable cost

6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR
6.0% +LIBOR

107,450

107,450

350,000

350,000

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 

 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 
 – 

 12,280 
 12,280 
 6,140 

 6,140 
 12,280 
 12,280 

 9,210 
 9,210 
 9,210 
 4,605 
 4,605 
 4,605 
 4,605 
107,450
214,900

 12,280 
 12,280 
 6,140 

 6,140 
 12,280 
 12,280 

 9,210 
 9,210 
 9,210 
 4,605 
 4,605 
 4,605 
 4,605 
107,450
214,900

 –
 –
 –

 –
 –
 –

 –
 –
 –
 –
 –
 –
 –
–
–

 40,000 
 40,000 
 20,000 

 20,000 
 40,000 
 40,000 

 30,000 
 30,000 
 30,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 
350,000
700,000

 40,000 
 40,000 
 20,000 

 20,000 
 40,000 
 40,000 

 30,000 
 30,000 
 30,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 
 15,000 
350,000
700,000

283

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202033.  Provision for decommissioning obligation

At 1 January 2020
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
At 31 December 2020
At 1 January 2019
Unwinding of discount due to passage of time
Change in estimate
At 31 December 2019

₦ million
34,988
(34,988)
–
 37,658 
 1,075 
 (3,745)
34,988

$ ‘000

113,968
(113,968)
–
 122,666 
 3,501 
 (12,199)
113,968

The Company makes full provision for the future cost of decommissioning oil production facilities on a discounted basis at the 
commencement of production. This relates to the removal of assets as well as their associated restoration costs. This obligation is recorded 
in the period in which the liability meets the definition of a “probable future sacrifice of economic benefits arising from a present obligation”, 
and in which it can be reasonably measured.

The provision represents the present value of estimated future expenditure to be incurred as highlighted in the table below which is the 
current expectation as to when the producing facilities are expected to cease operations. Management engaged a third party to assist with an 
estimate of the expenditure to be incurred. These provisions were based on estimations carried out by Ryder Scott based on current 
assumptions on the economic environment which management believes to be a reasonable basis upon which to estimate the future liability. 
These estimates are reviewed regularly to consider any material changes to the assumptions. However, actual decommissioning costs will 
ultimately depend upon future market prices for necessary decommissioning works required that will reflect market conditions at the 
relevant time.

Furthermore, the timing of decommissioning is likely to depend on when the fields cease to produce at economically viable rates. 

Seplat Petroleum Development Company:
OML 4
OML 38
OML 41

34.  Employee benefit obligation

Current estimated life span 
of reserves

2020
In years

2019
In years

–
–
–

2027 – 2037
2027 – 2034
2037

34.1  Defined contribution plan
The Company contributes to a funded defined contribution retirement benefit scheme for its employees in compliance with the provisions of 
the Pension Reform Act 2014. A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the Company pays fixed contributions to an approved 
Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) – a separate entity. The assets of the scheme are managed by various Pension Fund Administrators 
patronised by employees of the Company. The Company’s contributions are charged to the profit and loss account in the year to which 
they relate. 

Investment management strategy and policy

34.2  Defined benefit plan
i. 
The Company operates a funded defined benefit pension plan in Nigeria under the regulation of National Pension Commission. The plan 
provides benefits to all the employees (excluding Directors holding salaried employment in the Company) who have been employed by the 
Company for a continuous period of five years and whose employment have been confirmed. The employee’s entitlement to the accrued 
benefits occurs on retirement from the Company. The level of benefits provided on severance depends on members’ length of service and 
salary at retirement age.

The overall investment philosophy of the defined benefit plan fund is to ensure safety, optimum returns and liquidity in line with the regulation 
and guidelines of the Pension Reform Act 2014 or guidelines that may be issued from time to time by National Pension Commission.

Plan assets are held in trust. Responsibility for supervision of the plan assets (including investment decisions and contributions schedules) 
lies jointly with the trustees and the pension fund managers. The trustees are made up of members of the Company’s senior management 
appointed by the Chief Executive Officer. The Company does not have an investment strategy of matching match plan assets with the defined 
obligations as they fall due, however, the Company has an obligation to settle shortfalls in the plan asset upon annual actuarial valuations.

The provision for the defined benefit plan is based on an independent actuarial valuation performed by Logic Professional Services (LPS) 
using the projected unit credit method. The provision is adjusted for inflation, interest rate risks, changes in salary and changes in the life 
expectancy for the beneficiaries.

284

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202034.2  Defined benefit plan continued
i. 

Investment management strategy and policy continued

The following tables summaries the components of net defined benefit expense recognised in the statement of profit or loss and other 
comprehensive income and in the statement of financial position for the respective plans:

ii. 

Liability recognised in the financial position

Defined benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

iii. 

Amount recognised in profit or loss

Current service cost
Interest cost on defined benefit obligation

Return on plan assets

2020
₦ million
–
–
–

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
3,594
(583)
3,011

2019
₦ million
 602 
 364 
 966 
 (129) 
 837 

2020
$’000

–
–
–

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–
–

2019
$’000

11,707
(1,899)
9,808

2019
$’000

 1,961 
 1,186 
 3,147 
 (420) 
 2,727 

The Company recognises a part of its defined benefit expenses in profit or loss and recharges the other part to its joint operations partners, 
this is recognised as a receivable from the partners. Below is the breakdown:

Charged to profit or loss
Charged to receivables
Balance as at 31 December

iv. 

Remeasurement (gains)/losses in other comprehensive income

Remeasurement losses due to changes in financial and  
demographic assumptions
Remeasurement gains due to experience adjustment
Remeasurement gain on plan assets

Deferred tax credit/(expense) on remeasurement losses

2020
₦ million
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 309 
 528 
 837 

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

–
–
–
–
–
–

 (508)
 111
 (51) 
(448)
 381
 67 

2020
$’000

–
–
–

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–
–
–

The Company recognises a part of the remeasurement losses in other comprehensive income and recharges the other part to its joint 
operations partners. Below is the breakdown:

Recharged to receivables
(Charged)/credited to other comprehensive income
Remeasurement (losses)/gain due to changes in financial  
and demographic assumptions

2020
₦ million
–
–

2019
₦ million
(247) 
 (201)

–

 (448) 

2020
$’000

–
–

–

2019
$’000

 1,005 
 1,722 
 2,727 

2019
$’000

 (1,655) 
 362
 (166) 
(1,459)
 1,240
 219 

2019
$’000

 (803) 
 (656)

 (1,459) 

Deferred tax (expense)/credit on Remeasurement (gains)/losses

v. 
The Company recognises deferred tax (credit on a part of the remeasurement (gain)/losses in other comprehensive income/(loss). Below is 
the breakdown:

Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income 
Charged to receivables
Deferred tax on remeasurement losses

2020
₦ million
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 171
210
381

2020
$’000

–
–
–

2019
$’000

 558
 682
 1,240

285

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202034.  Employee benefit obligation continued

vi. 

Changes in the present value of the defined benefit obligation are as follows:

Defined benefit obligation as at 1 January
Current service cost
Interest cost on benefit obligation
Remeasurement losses due to changes in financial and  
demographic assumptions
Transfer to Seplat West Limited
Remeasurement gains due to experience adjustment
Benefits paid by the employer
Exchange differences 
Defined benefit obligation at 31 December

vii. 

The changes in the fair value of plan assets is as follows:

Balance as at 1 January
Return on plan assets
Transfer to Seplat West Limited
Remeasurement loss on plan assets
Balance as at 31 December 

The net liability disclosed above relates to funded plans as follows:

Present value of funded obligations
Fair value of plan assets
Deficit of funded plans

2020
₦ million
 3,594
–
–

–
(3,594)
–
–
–
–

2020
₦ million
 (583)
–
583
–
–

2020
₦ million
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 2,324
 602
 364

508
–
(111)
(86)
 (7)
 3,594

2019
₦ million
 (505)
 (129)
–
 51 
 (583)

2019
₦ million
3,594
 (583)
 3,011 

2020
$’000

 11,707
–
–

–
(11,707)
–
–
–
–

2020
$’000

 (1,899)
–
1,899
–
–

2020
$’000

–
–
–

2019
$’000

 7,568
 1,961
1,186

1,655
–
(362)
 (280)
 (21)
 11,707

2019
$’000

 (1,645)
 (420)
–
 166 
 (1,899)

2019
$’000

 11,707 
 (1,899)
 9,808 

The fair value of the plan asset of the Company at the end of the reporting period was determined using the market values of the comprising 
assets as shown below:

Money market
Equity instrument 
Treasury bills
Bonds
Cash at bank
Other current asset
Total plan asset as at 31 December

Quoted
₦ million
 –
12
50
386
–
–  

448

Not quoted
₦ million
 136
–
 –
–
2
(3)
135

2019

Total
 ₦ million 
 136
12
50
386
2
 (3)
583

Quoted
$’000

 –
40
 163
1,258
–
 –
1,461

Not quoted
$’000

 442
–
 –
–
6
 (10)
438

viii.  The principal assumptions used in determining defined benefit obligations for the Company’s plans are shown below:

2019

Total
$’000

 442
40
 163
1,258
6
 (10)
1,899

2019
%

14.00
12.00
12.00

2020
%

–
–
–

Number of deaths in year out of 
10,000 lives

2020

2019

–
–
–
–
–

Rates

2020

–
–
–
–
–

7
7
9
14
26

2019

1.0%
1.5%
1.5%
1.0%
0.0%

Discount rate
Average future pay increase
Average future rate of inflation

ix.  Mortality in service 

Sample age

25
30
35
40
45

x. 

Withdrawal from service

Age band

Less than or equal to 30
31 – 39
40 – 44
45 – 55
56 – 60

286

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020A quantitative sensitivity analysis for significant assumption is as shown below:

Assumptions

Base

Sensitivity Level: Impact on  
the net defined benefit obligation
31 December 2019

Assumptions

Base

Sensitivity Level: Impact on  
the net defined benefit obligation
31 December 2019

Discount rate

Salary increases

Mortality

1% increase
₦ million

1% decrease
₦ million

1% increase
₦ million

1% decrease
₦ million

1% increase
₦ million

1% decrease
₦ million

 3,595 

 (225)

 262 

 280 

 (243)

 3 

 (3)

Discount rate

Salary increases

Mortality

1% increase
$’000

1% decrease
$’000

1% increase
$’000

1% decrease
$’000

1% increase
$’000

1% decrease
$’000

 11,707 

 (733)

 854 

 912 

 (792)

 10 

 (10)

The sensitivity analyses above have been determined based on a method that extrapolates the impact on net defined benefit obligation as a 
result of reasonable changes in key assumptions occurring at the end of the reporting period. The methods and assumptions used in 
preparing the sensitivity analysis did not change compared to prior period.

The sensitivity analyses are based on a change in an assumption while holding all other assumptions constant. In practice, this is unlikely to 
occur and changes in some of the assumptions may be correlated.

The expected maturity analysis of the undiscounted defined benefit plan obligation is as follows:

Within the next 12 months (next annual reporting period)
Between 2 and 5 years
Between 5 and 10 years
Beyond 10 years

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
 198 
 1,403 
 5,421 
127,029
 134,051 

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–
–

2019
$’000

 646 
 4,569 
17,658 
413,775
 436,648 

The weighted average liability duration for the plan is 11.35 years. 

Risk exposure

h. 
Through its defined benefit pension plans, the Company is exposed to a number of risks. The most significant of which are detailed below:

Liquidity risk

i. 
The plan liabilities are not fully funded and as a result, there is a risk of the Company not having the required cash flow to fund future defined 
benefit obligations as they fall due.

Inflation risk 

ii. 
This is the risk of an unexpected significant rise/fall of market interest rates. A rise leads to a fall in long-term asset values and  
a rise in liability values.

Asset volatility

iii. 
The Company hold significant proportion of its plan assets in equities, which are expected to outperform corporate bonds in the long term 
while providing volatility and risk in the short term.

Life expectancy

iv. 
Most of the the plans’ obligations are to provide benefits for the life of the member, so increases in life expectancy will result in an increase in 
the plans’ liabilities. This is particularly significant, where inflationary increases result in higher sensitivity to changes in life expectancy.

35.  Trade and other payables

Trade payable
Accruals and other payables 
Pension payable
NDDC levy
Royalties
Overlift
Intercompany payable

2020
₦ million
177
939
–
–
–
–
199,941
201,057

2019
₦ million
 16,282 
 61,242 
 (14)
 6 
 5,813 
 13,227 
 119,113 
 215,669 

2020
$’000

466
2,474
–
–
–
–
526,160
529,100

2019
$’000

 53,034 
 199,490 
 (48)
 21 
 18,936 
 43,085 
 387,992 
 702,510 

287

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202036.  Contract liabilities 

Contract liabilities

36.1  Reconciliation of contract liabilities

Opening balance
Transfer to Seplat West Ltd
Addition during the year

2020
₦ million
–

2020
₦ million
5,005
(5,005)
–
–

2019
₦ million
5,005

2019
₦ million
–
–
5,005
5,005

2020
$’000

–

2020
$’000

16,301
(16,301)
–
–

2019
$’000

16,301

2019
$’000

–
–
16,301
16,301

Contract liabilities represents take or pay volumes contracted with Azura for 2018 which is yet to be utilised. In line with contract, Azura can 
make a demand on the makeup gas but only after they have taken and paid for the take or pay quantity for the current year. The contract 
liability is accrued for two years after which the ability to take the makeup gas expires and any outstanding balances are recognised 
as revenue.

37. 

(Loss)/Earnings per share (LPS)/EPS

Basic
Basic (LPS)/EPS is calculated on the Company’s profit after taxation attributable to the company and based on weighted average number of 
issued and fully paid ordinary shares at the end of the year.

Diluted 
Diluted (LPS)/EPS is calculated by dividing the profit after taxation attributable to the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary 
shares outstanding during the year plus the weighted average number of ordinary shares that would be issued on conversion of all the dilutive 
potential ordinary shares (arising from outstanding share awards in the share-based payment scheme) into ordinary shares.

(Loss)/Profit for the year

Weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue
Outstanding share-based payment (shares)
Weighted average number of ordinary shares adjusted 
for the effect of dilution

Basic (loss)/earnings per share
Diluted (loss)/earnings per share

2020
₦ million
(7,160)
Shares ‘000
579,638
8,807

2019
₦ million
 66,129 
Shares ‘000
 569,228 
 12,387 

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

(19,896)
Shares ‘000
579,638
8,807

 215,477 
Shares ‘000
 569,228 
 12,387 

588,445
₦
(12.35)
(12.17)

 581,615 
₦
 116.17 
 113.70 

588,445
$

(0.03)
(0.03)

 581,615 
$

 0.38 
 0.37 

The shares were weighted for the proportion of the number of months they were in issue during the reporting period.

38.  Dividends paid and proposed

As at 31 December 2020, the final proposed dividend for the Company is ₦19 ($0.05), 2019: ₦15.35 ($0.05).

Cash dividends on ordinary shares declared and paid:
Dividend for 2020: ₦37.32 ($0.10) per share 583,260,187 shares in issue  
(2019: ₦30.7 ($0.10) per share, 575,321,598 shares in issue)
Proposed dividend on ordinary shares:
Final proposed dividend for the year 2020: ₦19 ($0.05) (2019: ₦15.35 ($0.05) 
per share

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

20,998

18,019

58,342

58,708

11,082

8,831

29,163

28,766

As at 31 December 2020, ₦10.61 billion, ($29.4 million) (2019: ₦9 billion, $29.4 million) of interim dividend was paid at ₦18.03 ($0.05) per share 
as at 30 June 2020 and the remaining dividend ₦10.61 billion ($29.3 million) was paid at ₦19.29 ($0.05) per share as at 30 November 2020. Final 
Naira dividend payments will be based on the Naira/dollar rates on the date for determining the exchange rate. The payment is subject to 
shareholders’ approval at the 2020 Annual General Meeting.

39.  Related party relationships and transactions

The Company is owned 6.43% either directly or by entities controlled by A.B.C. Orjiako (SPDCL(BVI)) and members of his family and 10.21% 
either directly or by entities controlled by Austin Avuru (Professional Support Limited and Platform Petroleum Limited). The remaining shares 
in the parent Company are widely held.

The goods and services provided by the related parties are disclosed below. The outstanding balances payable to/receivable from related 
parties are unsecured and are payable/receivable in cash.

288

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Shareholders of the parent Company

1. 
Shebah Petroleum Development Company Limited SPDCL (BVI):

The Chairman of Seplat is a director and shareholder of SPDCL (BVI). The Company provided consulting services to Seplat. Services provided 
to the Group during the period amounted to $900 thousand, ₦342 million (2019: $1.05 million, ₦322 million).

Entities controlled by key management personnel (Contracts>$1 million in 2020)

2. 
Cardinal Drilling Services Limited (formerly Caroil Drilling Nigeria Limited):

Company is owned by common shareholders with the parent Company. The Company provides drilling rigs and drilling services to Seplat. 
Transactions with this related party amounted to $5.7 million, ₦2.1 billion (2019: $9.44 million, ₦2.89 billion). Payables amounted to 
$591 thousand, ₦225 million in the current period (2019: Receivable: Nil).

Entities controlled by key management personnel (Contracts<$1 million in 2020)

3. 
Abbeycourt Trading Company Limited: 

The Chairman of Seplat is a director and shareholder. The Company provides diesel supplies to Seplat in respect of Seplat’s rig operations. 
This amounted to $296 thousand, ₦106 million during the period (2019: $0.93 million, ₦286 million). Payables amounted to $15,273,  
₦5.8 million (2019: Nil).

Stage leasing (Ndosumili Ventures Limited):

A subsidiary of Platform Petroleum Limited (an entity in which Austin Avuru has an equity interest). The Company provides transportation 
services to Seplat. This amounted to $714 thousand, ₦257 million (2019: $1.45 million, ₦445 million). Payables amounted to $23,572, 
₦8.9 million (2019: Nil).

40. 

Information relating to employees

40.1  Key management compensation
Key management includes executive and members of the leadership team. The compensation paid or payable to key management for 
employee services is shown below:

Salaries and other short-term employee benefits
Post-employment benefits 
Share-based payment expenses

40.2  Chairman and Directors’ emoluments

Chairman (Non-executive)
Chief Executive Officer
Executive Directors
Non-Executive Directors
Total

2019 Executive Director emoluments includes 2018 bonus paid in 2019.

40.3  Highest paid Director

Highest paid Director

Emoluments are inclusive of income taxes. 

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
728
95
166
989

2019
₦ million
 354 
 763 
 800 
 702 
 2,619 

2020
₦ million

–

2019
₦ million

440

40.4  Number of Directors
The number of Directors (excluding the Chairman) whose emoluments fell within the following ranges was:

Zero – ₦19,896,500
₦19,896,501 – ₦115,705,800 
₦115,705,801 – ₦157,947,600
Above ₦157,947,600

Zero – $65,000
$65,001 – $378,000
$378,001 – $516,000
Above $516,000 

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–
–

2020
$’000

–

2019
$’000

2,373
308
540
3,221

2019
$’000

1,155
2,486
2,606
2,287
8,535

2019
$’000

1,434

2020
Number

2019
Number

–
–
–
4
4

–
–
–
3
3

2020
Number

2019
Number

–
–
–
4
4

–
–
–
3
3

289

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 202040. Information relating to employees continued

40.5  Employees
The number of employees (other than the Directors) whose duties were wholly or mainly discharged within Nigeria, and who earned over 
₦1,989,650 ($6,500), received remuneration (excluding pension contributions) in the following ranges:

₦1,989,650 – ₦4,897,600
₦4,897,601– ₦9,795,200 
₦9,795,201 – ₦14,692,800
Above ₦14,692,800

$6,500 – $16,000 
$16,001 – $32,000 
$32,001 – $48,000
Above $48,000 

40.6  Number of persons employed during the year 
The average number of persons (excluding Directors) in employment during the year was as follows:

Senior management 
Managers
Senior staff
Junior staff 

40.7  Employee cost
Seplat’s staff costs (excluding pension contribution) in respect of the above employees amounted to the following:

Salaries & wages

41.  Commitments and contingencies

2020
₦ million

–
–

2019
₦ million

 7,015 
 7,015 

2020
Number

2019
Number

9
121
156
172
458

9
142
132
180
463

2020
Number

2019
Number

9
121
156
172
458

9
142
132
180
463

2020
Number

2019
Number

27
101
209
121
458

2020
$’000

–
–

19
100
200
144
463

2019
$’000

 22,851 
 22,851 

41.1  Contingent liabilities 
The Company is involved in a number of legal suits as defendant. The estimated value of the contingent liabilities for the year ended 
31 December 2020 is ₦23.2million, $61,194 (2019: ₦11 billion, $35.5 million). The contingent liability for the year is determined based on 
possible occurrences, though unlikely to occur. No provision has been made for this potential liability in these financial statements. 
Management and the Company’s solicitors are of the opinion that the Company will suffer no loss from these claims.

41.2  Capital commitments
Significant capital expenditure contracted for at the end of the reporting period but not recognised as liabilities is as follows:

Property, plant and equipment 

42.  Events after the reporting period

31 Dec 2020
₦ million 
–

31 Dec 2019
₦ million
31,022

31 Dec 2020
$’000

–

31 Dec 2019
$’000

101,050

On 1 February 2021, ANOH Gas Processing Company Limited, a joint venture of the Company, successfully raised $260 million (₦98.8 billion) in 
debt to fund completion of its ANOH Gas Processing Plant.

290

Notes to the separate financial statements | continuedSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Separate statement of value added
For the year ended 31 December 2020

Revenue from contracts with customers
Other income – net

Finance income
Cost of goods and other services:
Local 
Foreign 
Valued added

Applied as follows:

To employees:
– as salaries and labour related expenses
To external providers of capital:
– as interest 

To Government: as Company taxes
Retained for the Company’s future:
– For asset replacement, depreciation,  
depletion & amortisation
Deferred tax (charges)/credit
Profit for the year
Valued added

2020
₦ million
–
(2,383)

277

(1,918)
(1,279)
(5,303)

%

2019
₦ million
 200,733 
 4,096 

 4,702 

%

2020
$’000

–
(6,621)

770

%

2019
$’000

 654,037 
 13,346 

 15,321 

%

 (50,773)
 (33,848)
100%  124,910 

(5,332)
(3,554)
(14,737)

 (165,422)
 (110,282)
100%  407,000 

100%

100%

2020
₦ million

%

2019
₦ million

1,856

(35%)

 7,347 

–

–

–

–

 10,129 

 6,641 

%

6%

8%

5%

2020
$’000

%

2019
$’000

5,157

(35%)

 23,941 

–

–

–

–

 33,001 

 21,637 

%

6%

8%

5%

1
–
(7,160)
(5,303)

 27,821 
–
 6,843 
–
135%
 66,129 
100%  124,910 

22%
5%
53%
100%

3
–
(19,897)
(14,737)

–
–

 90,647 
 22,297 
135%  215,477 
100%  407,000 

22%
5%
53%
100%

The value added represents the additional wealth which the Company has been able to create by its own and its employees’ efforts. This 
statement shows the allocation of that wealth to employees, providers of finance, shareholders, government and that retained for the 
creation of future wealth.

291

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 20202020
₦ million
–
(7,160)
–
(7,160)

2019
₦ million
 200,733 
 79,613 
 (13,484)
 66,129 

2018
₦ million
 217,174 
 85,429 
 (35,748)
 49,681 

2017
₦ million
127,655
28,759
67,657
96,416

2016
₦ million
 51,995 
 (29,261)
 4,421 
 (24,840)

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2018
₦ million

2017
₦ million

2016
₦ million

 293 
 86,917 
 7,174 
 5,932 
 254,070
 191,216 
 545,602

 289 
 84,045 
 8,194 
 5,932 
 282,228 
 196,535 
 577,223 

 286 
 82,080 
 7,298 
 5,932 
 234,148 
 196,552 
 526,296 

 283
82,080
4,332
5,932
194,526
203,072
490,225

 283 
 82,080 
 2,597 
 5,932 
 193,499 
 106,670 
 391,061 

 673,535 
73,124
–
 (201,057)
 545,602 

 518,366 
 539,423 
 (233,715)
 (246,851)
 577,223 

 328,870
514,131
 (173,276)
 (143,429)
 526,296 

359,097
474,837
(125,880)
(217,829)
490,225

 277,618 
 404,274 
 (137,722)
(153,109)
 391,061 

2020
$’000

–
(19,897)
–
(19,897)

2019
$’000

 654,037 
 259,411 
 (43,934)
 215,477 

2018
$’000

2017
$’000

2016
$’000

 709,493 
 279,093 
 (116,788)
 162,305 

 417,428 
 94,056 
 221,233 
 315,289 

 202,446 
 (138,911)
 14,499 
 (124,412)

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

2018
$’000

2017
$’000

2016
$’000

 1,855 
 511,723 
 27,592 
 40,000 

 1,845 
 503,742 
 30,426 
 40,000 
 1,225,958  1,304,197 
1,807,128 1,880,210

1,826
 1,826 
 1,834 
497,457
 497,457 
 497,457 
 12,135 
 17,809 
 27,499 
40,000
 40,000 
 40,000 
 1,147,526 
730,740
 1,045,985 
1,714,316  1,603,077  1,282,158

 2,143,798   1,688,491 
192,430  1,757,082 
 (761,285)
 – 
 (529,100)
 (804,078)
 1,807,128  1,880,210 

 1,071,233  1,174,286 
 1,674,694  1,552,758 
 (411,642)
 (564,416)
 (712,325)
 (467,195)
 1,714,316   1,603,077 

 910,221 
 1,325,488 
 (451,549)
 (502,002)
 1,282,158 

Separate five-year financial summary
As at 31 December 2020

Revenue from contracts with customers
(Loss)/profit before taxation
Income tax (expense)/credit
(loss)/profit for the year

Capital employed:
Issued share capital
Share premium
Share-based payment reserve
Capital contribution
Retained earnings
Foreign translation reserve
Total equity
Represented by:
Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Net assets

Revenue from contracts with customers
(Loss)/profit before taxation
Income tax (expense)/credit
(Loss)/profit for the year

Capital employed:
Issued share capital
Share premium
Share-based payment reserve
Capital contribution
Retained earnings
Total equity
Represented by:
Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
Net assets

292

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Separate supplementary financial information (unaudited)
For the year ended 31 December 2020

43.  Capitalised costs related to oil producing activities

Capitalised costs:
Unproved properties
Proved properties
Total capitalised costs
Accumulated depreciation
Net capitalised costs

2020
₦ million

2019
₦ million

2020
$’000

2019
$’000

–
–
–
–
–

–
417,140 
417,140 
(167,252)
249,888

–
–
–
–
–

–
1,358,761 
1,358,761 
(544,794)
813,967

Capitalised costs include the cost of equipment and facilities for oil producing activities. Unproved properties include capitalised costs for oil 
leaseholds under exploration, and uncompleted exploratory well costs, including exploratory wells under evaluation. Proved properties 
include capitalised costs for oil leaseholds holding proved reserves, development wells and related equipment and facilities (including 
uncompleted development well costs) and support equipment.

44.  Results of operations for oil producing activities

Revenue from contracts with customers
Other income – net
Production and administrative expenses
Depreciation and amortisation
Profit before taxation
Taxation
Profit after taxation 

45.  Reclassification

2020
₦ million
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

2019
₦ million
138,530 
 4,096 
(96,032)
(21,328)
25,266 
(13,484)
11,782 

2020
$’000

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

2019
$’000

451,364 
13,346 
(301,574)
(80,806)
82,330 
(43,934)
38,396 

Certain comparative figures have been reclassified in line with the current year’s presentation.

46.  Exchange rates used in translating the accounts to Naira 

The table below shows the exchange rates used in translating the accounts into Naira.

Fixed assets – opening balances
Fixed assets – additions
Fixed assets – closing balances
Current assets
Current liabilities
Equity
Income and expenses

Basis

31 December 2020

31 December 2019

Historical rate
Average rate
Closing rate
Closing rate
Closing rate
Historical rate
Overall average rate

Historical
359.91
380
380
380
Historical
359.91

Historical
306.91
307
307
307
Historical
306.91

293

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Payments to governments (unaudited) 
Notice of eighth Annual General Meeting 
Unclaimed dividend list 
General information 
Glossary of terms 

295
296
298
306
307

295– 
308

ADDITIONAL  
INFORMATION

294

XxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxXxxxxxxxxxxxxSeplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Report on Payments to Governments for the Year 2020

Introduction 
The following information is included to comply with the Disclosure 
and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority in the 
United Kingdom and it is prepared in accordance with Directive 
2013/34/EU (the EU Accounting Directive (2013).

BASIS FOR PREPARATION – REPORT ON PAYMENTS  
TO GOVERNMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2020
Reporting entities 
This Report includes payments to governments made by Seplat 
Petroleum Development Company and its subsidiaries (Seplat).  
All payments to governments arise from operations within Nigeria.

Activities
Payments made by Seplat to governments arising from activities 
involving the exploration, prospection, discovery, development and 
extraction of minerals, gas processing, oil and natural gas deposits 
or other materials (extractive activities) are disclosed in this Report. 
It excludes payments related to refining, natural gas liquefaction or 
gas-to-liquids activities. When payments cover both extractive and 
processing activities and cannot be split, the payments have been 
disclosed in full.

Government
Government includes any national, regional or local authority of a 
country to which Seplat has made payment related to these 
regulations, and includes any department, agency or entity that  
is controlled by such authority.

Project
Payments are reported at project level except for payments that are 
not attributable to a specific project, these are reported at entity 
level. A project is defined as operational activities which are 
governed by a single contract, license, lease, concession or similar 
legal agreement, and form the basis for payment to government. 
However, if multiple of agreements are substantially interconnected, 
this shall be considered as a project. Indicators of integration 
include, but are not limited to, geographic proximity, the use of 
shared infrastructure and common operational management.

Payments
The information is reported under the following payment types.

Production entitlements
These represent the government’s share of production in the 
reporting period arising from projects operated by Seplat. It 
comprises of crude oil and gas attributable to the Nigerian 
government by virtue of its participation as an equity holder in 
projects within its sovereign jurisdiction  (Nigeria). 

Production entitlements to the government are lifted independently 
by the relevant government agency.

Royalties
These are payments for the rights to extract oil and gas resources, 
typically at a set percentage of revenue less any deductions that may 
be taken.

License fees, rental fees, entry fees and other considerations for 
licenses and/or concessions
These are fees and other sums paid as consideration for acquiring a 
license for gaining access to an area where extractive activities are 
performed. Administrative government fees that are not specifically 
related to the extractive sector, or to obtain access to extractive 
resources, are excluded. Also excluded are payments made in return 
for services provided by a government. 

Corporate taxes
Corporate taxes are charges based on taxable profit which are 
payable to the government. Examples of corporate taxes in Nigeria 
include Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), corporate income tax (CIT) and 
education tax.

Corporate income tax (CIT) is a tax imposed on profit of a company 
from all sources. Gas operations are liable to CIT.

Petroleum profit tax (PPT) is a tax applicable to upstream operations 
in the oil industry in lieu of corporate income tax. Oil operations such 
as oil mining, prospecting and exploration leases are liable to PPT.

Education tax is tax applicable to both oil and gas operations based 
on assessable profit. Assessable profit is the profit derived after 
deducting all the allowable expenses. 

Other types of payments that are required to be disclosed in 
accordance with the Regulations are the following:

• Dividends
• Signature, discovery and production bonuses
• Infrastructure improvements

However, for the year ended 31 December 2020, there were no such 
reportable payments made by Seplat to government that were above 
the materiality threshold as determined below.

Materiality
For each payment type, total payments below £89,934 (€100,000, 
$122,760) whether made as a single payment or as a series of related 
payments, to a government agency are excluded from this Report. 

Reporting currency
Payments in this report have been disclosed in US Dollars. Where 
actual payments have been recorded in a currency other than US 
Dollars, they have been translated using the annual average 
exchange rate.

Government and Expense Report (In USD) 

GOVERNMENTS
Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation
Department of Petroleum Resources 
Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme
Niger Delta Development Commission
Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board
Federal Inland Revenue Service
Total

Project and Expense Report (In USD)

Production Entitlement

Royalties

Fees

Taxes

$’000

 389,575,992 
–
–
–
–
–
389,575,992

–
 111,632,919 
–
–
–
–
 111,632,919 

–
 18,376,189 
 579,361 
 17,934,968 
 4,826,290 
–
 41,716,808 

–
–
–
–
–
 21,239,383 
 21,239,383 

 389,575,992 
 130,009,108 
 579,361 
 17,934,968 
 4,826,290 
 21,239,383 
 564,165,102 

Production Entitlement

Royalties

Fees

Taxes

$’000

PROJECTS
OML 4, 38 and 41
OML 17
OML 40
OML 53
OML 56
Total

 326,107,787 
–
–
 63,468,205 
–
 389,575,992 

 75,617,803 
–
 29,915,648 
 5,750,039 
 349,429 
 111,632,919 

 35,400,094 
 1,002,000 
 736,144 
 4,292,293 
 286,277 
 41,716,808 

 9,551,123 
 39,645.77 
 10,589,779 
–
 1,058,835 
 21,239,383 

 446,676,808 
 1,041,646 
 41,241,571 
 73,510,536 
 1,694,541 
 564,165,102 

295

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notice of 8th Annual General Meeting of
Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc.

11. 

 THAT a new Article 26 be and is hereby included to read 
as follows:

 (26.1)  “Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company  

shall be entitled to purchase its own shares, including 
redeemable shares, provided that: (a) the shareholders 
shall, by special resolution, approve the acquisition by 
the Company of the shares that it intends to purchase; 
(b) only fully paid up shares of the Company may be 
purchased by the Company, and the terms of purchase 
shall provide for payment for the purchase; and (c) within 
seven (7) days after the passing of the special resolution 
referred to above, the Company shall publish in two (2) 
national newspapers, a notice of the proposed purchase 
by the Company of its own shares.

 (26.2)  Where the Company buys back its shares, payment for 

the share buyback shall be made from the distributable 
profits of the Company. 

 (26.3)  The Company may buy back its shares: (a) from the 
existing shareholders or security holders on a 
proportionate basis; (b) from the existing shareholders 
in a manner permitted pursuant to a scheme of 
arrangement sanctioned by the court; from the open 
market; and (c) by purchasing the securities issued to 
employees of the Company pursuant to a scheme of 
stock option or any other similar scheme. 

12.   THAT the Company Secretary be and is hereby authorised to 

take all necessary steps to give effect to the above resolutions.

Copies of the Annual Report and Accounts for SEPLAT Petroleum 
Development Company Plc for the financial year ended 31 December 
2020 will be mailed to the shareholders and will be available on the 
Company’s website: www.seplatpetroleum.com. Printed versions 
can also be obtained by contacting DataMax Registrars in Nigeria 
at 2C Gbagada Expressway, by Beko Ransom Kuti Park, Gbagada, 
Lagos/+ 234 1 7120012; or Computershare in the UK on 
+44 (0) 370 703 6101. 

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD. 

MRS. EDITH ONWUCHEKWA
FRC/2013/NBA/00000003660
Company Secretary
Dated 7 April 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 8th Annual General Meeting of 
SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc (the ‘‘Company’’)  
will hold at 16A Temple Road (Olu Holloway), Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria  
on Thursday, 20 May 2021 at 11:00am to transact the 
following business: 

Ordinary business:
1. 

 To receive the Audited Financial Statements of the Company for 
the year ended 31st December 2020, together with the Reports of 
the Directors, Auditors and the Statutory Audit Committee thereon.

2. 

3. 

 To declare a final dividend recommended by the Board of 
Directors of the Company in respect of the financial year  
ended 31 December 2020.

 To re-appoint PriceWaterhouseCoopers (“PWC”) as Auditors  
of the Company from the conclusion of this meeting until the 
conclusion of the next general meeting of the Company at  
which the Company’s Annual Accounts are laid. 

4. 

 To authorize the Board of Directors of the Company to  
determine the Auditors’ remuneration. 

5. 

 To elect/re-elect the following Directors1:

a.   To approve the appointment of the following Directors:

i. 

ii. 

 Mr. Emeka Onwuka, as an Executive Director of  
the Company;

 Ms. Arunma Oteh, OON as an Independent  
Non-Executive Director of the Company; and 

iii.   Mr. Xavier R. Rolet, KBE as an Independent  
Non-Executive Director of the Company.

b.   To re-elect the following Directors who are eligible 

for retirement by rotation:

i. 

ii. 

 Lord Mark Malloch-Brown  
(Independent Non-Executive Director); and

 Mr. Damian Dodo, SAN  
(Independent Non-Executive Director).

6.  To disclose the Remuneration of Managers of the Company2

7. 

 To elect the Shareholder Representatives of the Statutory 
Audit Committee. 

Special business:
To consider and, if thought fit, to transact the following  
Special Business, which will be proposed and passed as 
Ordinary Resolutions: 

8. 

9. 

 To approve the Remuneration Section of the Directors’ 
Remuneration Report set out in the Annual Report  
and Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2020.  
(including the forward-looking Remuneration Policy).3

 THAT in view of the Company’s strategy of transitioning into 
an energy Company promoting renewable energy and 
sustainability, that the name of the Company be changed 
from SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc to “SEPLAT 
Energy Plc.” and the Memorandum and Articles of the Company 
be amended to reflect the change of name.

10.   THAT in view of the newly enacted Companies and Allied Matters 
Act (“CAMA”) 2020 and in accordance with section 53 of CAMA, 
that the Company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association 
(“Memart”) be amended by aligning all references to the sections 
of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2004 with the 
corresponding sections in CAMA 2020 and the successive 
Articles be renumbered serially.

1  The Profiles of the Directors are set out on pages 82 to 86.
2  The Remuneration of the Managers of the Company is set out on page 130.
3  The Directors’ Remuneration Policy is set out on page 118.

296

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.  UNCLAIMED DIVIDEND:
Shareholders are hereby informed that a number of dividends still 
remains unclaimed. The list of all unclaimed dividend will be 
circulated with the Annual Report and Financial Statements. Any 
member affected by this notice is advised to write to or call the office 
of the Company's Registrar, DataMax Registrars Limited, at No. 2c 
Gbagada Expressway, by Beko Ransom Kuti Park, Gbagada Phase 1, 
Lagos or through any of these numbers: 07064000751, 07064000752, 
07064000758, 0700DATAMAX. The list of unclaimed dividends can be 
accessed at the Registrars' office or via the Company's website: 
www.seplatpetroleum.com. 

6.  NOMINATION FOR THE STATUTORY AUDIT COMMITTEE:
In accordance with section 404(3) of the Companies and Allied 
Matters Act 2020, the Audit Committee shall consist of five (5) 
members comprising of two (2) Non-Executive Directors and three 
(3) representatives of the Shareholders of the Company. Any 
shareholder may nominate a shareholder as a member of the Audit 
Committee. In accordance with 404(6) of the Companies and Allied 
Matters Act 2020, such nomination should be in writing and should 
reach the Company Secretary at least twenty-one (21) days before 
the Annual General Meeting and any nomination not received prior  
to the meeting as stipulated is invalid. The Companies and Allied 
Matters Act 2020 and the Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance 
2018 stipulates that members of the Audit Committee should be 
financially literate and at least one member must be a member of 
a professional accounting body in Nigeria established by the Act of  
the National Assembly and be knowledgeable in internal control 
processes. Thus, a detailed Curriculum Vitae confirming the 
nominee’s qualification should be submitted with each nomination  
to the Statutory Audit Committee.

7.  E-REPORT:
In order to improve efficiency and delivery of the Annual Report, 
Shareholders who wish to receive the Annual Report of SEPLAT 
Petroleum Development Company Plc in an electronic format should 
provide their email addresses to the Registrars for processing. In 
addition, Annual Reports are available online for viewing and download 
from the Company’s website at www.seplatpetroleum.com.

8.  RIGHT OF MEMBERS TO ASK QUESTIONS:
In line with Rule 19.12(c) of the Listing Rules of the Nigerian Stock 
Exchange, Shareholders have a right to ask questions not only at the 
Annual General Meeting, but also in writing prior to the Meeting. 
Questions submitted prior to the Meeting should be addressed to the 
Company Secretary and must reach the head office of the Company 
no later than seven (7) days before the date of the Meeting (being 
13 May 2021) or by email at AGMQuestions@seplatpetroleum.com.

9.  VIEWING OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE MEETING:
The Meeting will be streamed live online to enable shareholders and 
other stakeholders who will not be attending physically to follow the 
proceedings. The link for the live streaming of the Meeting will be 
made available on the Company’s website at www.seplatpetroleum.
com and will be streamed live on the YouTube social media channel. 

Notes:
1.  PROXY:
In line with the guidelines of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) 
on the conduct of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Public 
Companies by Proxies and taking advantage of Section 254 of the 
Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020, the Company has obtained 
the approval of CAC to hold the AGM with attendance by proxies. 
Further, in the interest of public safety and having regard to the 
Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) COVID-19 Guidance for 
Safe Mass Gatherings in Nigeria and the restrictions on public 
gatherings by the Lagos State Government, only persons indicated 
to be selected as proxies on the Proxy Form shall attend the meeting 
physically while the other members may participate online through 
a live streaming of the AGM. 

In compliance with the above guidelines, members who are entitled 
to attend and vote at the AGM of the Company are hereby advised to 
select a proxy from the following selected proxies to attend and vote 
in their place: 

(a) 

 Dr. A. B. C. Orjiako 

(Chairman, Board of Directors)

(b)  Mr. Roger Brown 

(Chief Executive Officer)

(c)  Sir Sunny Nwosu

(d)  Dr. Faruk Umar

(e)  Mr. Amatare Oki 

(f)  Mrs. Ngozi Osuzoka

(g)  Mr. Boniface Okezie

(h)  Mr. Matthew Akinlade

(i)  Mr. Samuel Esan Ogunleye

(j)  Dr. Anthony Omoniyi Omojola

(k)  Mrs. Adebisi Oluwayemisi Bakare

(l)  Alhaja Ayodele Sarat Kudaisi

For the appointment to be valid for the purposes of the meeting, the 
Company has made arrangements at its cost for the stamping of the 
duly completed proxy forms which must be deposited at the office of 
the Registrar, DataMax Registrars Limited, 2C Gbagada Express Way, 
by Beko Ransom Kuti Park, Gbagada, Lagos or at the head office of 
the Company, marked for the attention of the “Company Secretary” 
or by email to proxy@seplatpetroleum.com, not less than 48 hours 
before the time fixed for the meeting. For convenience purposes, a 
blank proxy form is attached to the 2020 Annual Report & Accounts, 
both of which are available at the Company’s website: www.
seplatpetroleum.com and at the Company’s head office: 16a Temple 
Road (Olu Holloway), Ikoyi, Lagos. 

2.  CLOSURE OF REGISTER:
The Register of Members and Transfer Books of the Company 
(Nigeria & UK) will be closed on 5 May 2021 in accordance with the 
provisions of section 114 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 
2020, to enable the Registrars to prepare for the Annual 
General Meeting.

3.  PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS:
If the Dividend recommended by the Directors is approved by 
members at the Annual General Meeting, dividend will be paid on or 
around 28 May 2021, to shareholders whose names appear in the 
Company’s Register of Members at the close of business on  
4 May 2021.

4.  E-DIVIDEND MANDATE:
Shareholders are kindly requested to advise DataMax Registrars 
Limited of their updated records and relevant bank accounts, by 
completing the e-mandate form. The e-mandate form can be 
downloaded from DataMax Registrars Limited’s website at http://
www.datamaxregistrars.com. The duly completed form(s) should be 
returned to DataMax Registrars Limited, at No. 2c Gbagada 
Expressway, by Beko Ransom Kuti Park, Gbagada Phase 1, Lagos.

297

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Unclaimed dividend list

S/No Beneficiary
1
2
3
4
5
6

30TH JUNE CONCEPT LTD
ABUBAKAR SHEHU
AAYINDE RAHMON, ISIAKA
ABDUL ADENIYI, OMOTAYO
ABDUL OLUWASOLA, HAMMED
ABDULAZEEZ AYOMIDE, 
ABDUSSALAAM
ABDULLAHI TAMBARI, KABIRU A.T.
ABEJIDE KEHINDE, DAVID
ABIDOYE TAOFIK, OWOLABI
ABILAWON VICTORIA, IYANUOLUWA
ABIMBOLA ATINUKE, DEBORAH
ABIMBOLA OLUBUNMI, EUNICE
ABIODUN SYLVESTER, OLUSANMI
ABIOLA VICTORIA, ABOSEDE
ABIOYE VICTORIA, FEYISIKEMI
ABODERIN OLAJUMOKE,
ABOD-REUBENS NIG LTD
ABOLUDE OLANIKE, OMOYIOLA
ABRAHAM KEHINDE, P
ABUBAKAR MUHAMMAD, BASHIR
ABUJA INVESTMENTS COMPANY 
LIMITED
ABURIME SYLVANUS, STEPHEN
ADAMS BODE, THOMAS
ADAMU ISMAIL,
ADDAX STAFF COOPERATIVE
ADEAKIN FOLAYEMI, DIDANLOLA
ADEBAMIRO OLUWATOYIN, 
OLUBUNMI
ADEBANJO ADENIKE, ADERONKE
ADEBAYO ABOSEDE, JOSEPHINE
ADEBAYO ADEBOLA, ADEREMI
ADEBAYO ADEDAYO, OLUWASEUN
ADEBAYO OLALEKAN, 
OLASUNKANMI
ADEBAYO OLUWAFEMI, ABAYOMI
ADEBAYO OLUWASEYI, OLUWAFEMI
ADEBAYO RAHEEM, ADEWALE
ADEBAYO RAMONI, AKANO
ADEBISI ADENIYI, ARAUNSI
ADEBIYI ADEOLA, KATE
ADEBIYI BABAJIDE, ADESOLA
ADEBIYI OLUDARE, EMMANUEL
ADEBOWALE AYISAT, ADEDOLAPO
ADEBOWALE ISLAMIAH, IDOWU
ADEDAPO FOLASHADE, AKINTOLA
ADEDEJI NOSIRU, ADIGUN
ADEDINSEWO ADEDEJI, FREDERICK
ADEDIRAN OKIKIADE, ISAAC
ADEDOYIN ADEKIITE, OLUTOYIN
ADEDOYIN ADEKIITE, OLUTOYIN
ADEDOYIN ADENIKE, FLORENCE
ADEDOYIN BUSOLA, ELIZABETH
ADEDOYIN PAUL, TIMILEHIN
ADEDUNMOLA ANDREW, 
ADEGBEMIRO
ADEEKO RACHAEL, OLULAYO
ADEFARASIN EMMANUEL, ADEMOLA
ADEFARASIN HERBERT, A.
ADEFEHINTI OLUWAFOLAKEMI,
ADEFUYE MICHAEL, OLORUNTELE

S/No Beneficiary
58
59

ADEGBAMIYE JOHNSON, ADEKUNLE
ADEGBITE -, AYODELE SAMSON 
GBADEBO
ADEGBITE CHRISTIANAH, 
ADEBUKOLA
ADEGBITE ISAAC, ADEREMI
ADEGBITE WAHEED, BABATUNDE
ADEGBULUGBE OLUFEMI, ADELEYE
ADEGOKE O.S., PROF. & DR (MRS)
ADEGOROYE MONISADE, OLUKEMI
ADEJARE ABIDEEN, ABIODUN
ADEKOLA ABOSEDE, ADERONKE
ADEKUNLE MIKAIL, ODUNAYO
ADELAKUN RILWAN, ABIODUN
ADELANWA KUBURAT, AYOKA
ADELE-AKINTAYO ADEROJU, 
WASILAT
ADELEKE ADEBAYO, ADETUNJI
ADELEKE ADEBISI, SHOLA
ADELEKE IDRIS, OLAWUNMI
ADELEKE JUSTUS, ADEBANJO
ADELEYE ADEREMI,
ADELUOLA OLOYEDE, RILWAN
ADENIJI LATEEF, ADEJARE
ADENIKINJU HANNAH,
ADENIRAN ADEKUNLE, AMOS
ADENIRAN ADEKUNLE, AMOS
ADENIRAN BABATUNDE, VICTOR (DR)
ADENIYI OLATUNDE, OLADEJI
ADENOLA BAMIDELE, ABAYOMI
ADENRELE AL-CUDUZ, ADEFOWOPE 
ABIODUN
ADENRELE SHERIFAT, ADEBOLA
ADENRELE SULAIMON, BABATUNDE
ADENUGA OLUFEMI, S. TRUST 
ACCOUNT
ADENUGA OLUSOLA, ESTHER
ADENUGA OLUSOLA, ESTHER
ADENUSI OLUWATOSIN,
ADEOGUN ODUNLAMI, ABIODUN
ADEOYE DANIEL,
ADEOYE OLUBUNMI, BABATUNDE
ADEPOJU IBITOMI, MOWANUOLA
ADEPOJU JAMIU, ALADE
ADERIBIGBE ZAINAB, YETUNDE
ADESANYA OLUKAYODE, PATRICK
ADESERI TOLUWANI, OLUFEMI
ADESINA AYOTUNDE, EMMANUEL
ADESINA OLALEKAN, OLADEPO
ADESINA OLUWADARE, BABATUNDE
ADESOGAN SAMUEL, ADEDAYO
ADESOLA SELIMOT, NIYIOLA
ADESUA DOZIE
ADETIBA ADEREMI, AKABA
ADEUSI ILUYOMADE, STEPHEN
ADEYEGBE OLUWOLE,
ADEYEMI ADEKUNLE,
ADEYEMI FUNSHO, ADEDIRAN
ADEYEMI KAFAYAT, TEMITOPE
ADEYEMI MOTUNRAYO, RAMOTA
ADEYEMO ADETOKUNBO, OLUMIDE
ADEYEMO TITI, LATIFAT

60

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71

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95
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97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114

S/No Beneficiary
115
116
117
118
119
120
121

ADEYEYE ADESHINA, TOSIN
ADEYEYE SHAKIRAT, KIKELOMO
ADEYINKA AJAYI,
ADIO ADEMOLA, ALEXANDER
ADISA GANIYU, DAMILARE
ADU AYODELE,
ADUBA JUDE, AND SAMAILA 
SULEIMAN
ADUNMO KEHINDE, MOSES
AFINJU TAIWO, ANUOLUWA
AFOLABI AKINWALE, IBRAHIM
AFOLABI OLAYINKA,
AFOLABI OLORODE TRUST( FBN 
TRUSTEES)
AGADA CHIDINMA, EVIDENCE
AGADA MATHIAS, USMAN
AGBAJE OLUWATOBI, OLUWATOKI
AGBEDE OLAYINKA, FOLAYEMI
AGBOOLA FATIMAT, BINTU
AGORO AFOLABI,
AGU MADUKA, OGBONNAYA
AGUNBIADE OLUFUNMILAYO, JULIUS
AGWUIBE NNEKA, ROSEYMARY D
AGWUNCHA IFEYINWA, EVELYN
AHARANWA IKECHUKWU, BRIGHT
AHMAD SALIHIJO, BILIKISU
AIBONI SAM, AMAIZE
AIKHOMU ANITA, OTIBHOR
AIKHOMU EKANEM, BASSEY
AIKHOMU WILLIAMS, EHIZOGIE
AIKHOMU WILSON, OMOGBALE
AINA BABATUNDE, OLASOJI
AIYEBIWO OLUBUNMI, MOTUNRAYO
AIYEDENU EBUNOLUWA, OMOTAYO
AJA UKPA, NNAEMEKA
AJADI YEKINNI, OLANREWAJU
AJAERO KINGSLEY, UCHECHUKWU
AJAGUN ADEDEJI, OLATUNDE
AJANI MUSA, ADEKOLA
AJANI RASHEED, OLALEKAN
AJANI TUNDE, OLUWOLE
AJANI WAHAB, ABIDOYE
AJAO ADEFUNSHO, ADEYI
AJAO AJIBADE, OLADAPO
AJAO JOHNNY, ADELAKUN
AJAYI ADENIYI, MUHIDEEN
AJAYI EDWARD, OLADELE
AJAYI IBUKU, OLUWASEUN
AJAYI LATIFAT, DAMILOLA
AJAYI OLATUNDE, ADEWUYI
AJAYI OLUSOJI,
AJAYI OMOLARA, SHOLA
AJAYI OPEYEMI, AANU
AJAYI RAMOTA, TOWOBOLA
AJIBOLA SAMSON, GBADEBO
AJIBOYE ADETAYO, OKUNOLA
AJIROBA TOFUNMI, BUSAYO
AJITENA DENIKE,
AJOSE-ADEOGUN OLUREMI, 
MAJEOLAGBE
AJUMOBI GRACE, OMONIYI
AJUMOBI OLUYEMI, JOSEPH (EST OF)

122
123
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126

127
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140
141
142
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144
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153
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159
160
161
162
163
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165
166
167
168
169
170
171

172
173

7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21

22
23
24
25
26
27

28
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42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52

53
54
55
56
57

298

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020S/No Beneficiary
174
175
176
177
178
179
180

AJUMOGOBIA AWUNEBA SOTONYE
AKANBI MOSES, ADENIYI
AKANMI PIUS, KAYODE
AKANMU MARY, TEMILADE
AKANMU OLUWASEYI, OYEYEMI
AKANNI PIUS, KAYODE
AKEEM-SHADARE KAAMIL, 
IFEOLUWAPO
AKEEM-SHADARE OMAR, 
OLUWAJUWON
AKENDE CLARA, TEMILADE
AKHIGBE OKHIRIA, TOM
AKHIMIEN EHIAVBI, FESTUS
AKINBO OLAYIWOLA, ADIO
AKINBOLA PHILLIP, OLADIRAN
AKINJIDE ABAYOMI,
AKINJOBI TEMITOPE, ANUOLUWAPO
AKINLADE TITILOLA, OLUSOLA
AKINLAJA MICHEAL, ADEBOWALE
AKINLOTAN AYINDE, BABATUNDE
AKINLUYI TOLULOPE, STEPHEN
AKINOLA AKINMAYOWA, OLUWASEYI
AKINOLA KAYODE, ADEFEMI
AKINOLA OLUDOTUN, OLUFEMI
AKINOLA OLUWASEUN,
AKINRINWALE OLUSEGUN, AMOBI
AKINSANYA FOLASHADE, OMOLAYO
AKINSANYA LATEEF, AYINDE
AKINSANYA OLABISI, TOLU
AKINSANYA,O.ADEYEMI &, 
BALOGUN,O.OLUFUNMI
AKINTUNDE MARY, ADEOLA
AKINTUNDE MOHAMMED, SABITU
AKINWUNMI OMOLAJA, ADISA
AKINYEMI ABIOLA, ADEYINKA
AKINYEMI MONSURAT, MOPELOLA
AKINYERA OLUWASANMI, 
AKINTOYINBO
AKINYODE OLAYINKA, SHAKIRAT
AKINYODE RAFIAT,
AKINYOMI JANET, OLA
AKIODE OLATUNJI,
AKOREDE MOROUNMUBO,
AKPAN SAMUEL, FELIX
AKPORE GOODLUCK,
AKPOTOBOR GOD, SPOWER 
OMONIGHO
AKPOVBOVBO HELEN, 
OGHENEYOUWE
AKWIWU ADANNAYA, CHINEMEREM
AKWIWU NDUKWE, NNADOZIE
ALABI DAMILARE,
ALADEGBEINGBE FRANCIS, OLUFEMI
ALADESUYI OLAKITAN,
ALAGA KOLAWOLE, MUFTAU
ALAGBE ADEYINKA, (PRINCE)
ALAKWE FAUSTINUS, IZUCHUKWU
ALATIRON NIGERIA LIMITED
ALAYAKI FAHEEM, OLADIPUPO
ALAYAKI FAKHTAH, OLAOLUWA
ALAYAKI FAROUQ, OLAWALE
ALAYAKI FATIMAH, OLAMIDE

181

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212
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214
215

216

217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229

S/No Beneficiary
230
231
232

ALAYAKI IDOWU, MOSIDAT
ALIU GABRIEL, TOBA
ALIYU KAYAUKI, SGT ABBA 
ABUBAKAR
ALLI OLALEKAN, JAMIU
ALLI-BALOGUN AMINAT,
ALLISON-OGURU EDMUND, 
ANIENKEDIGIRI
ALPHA VC PREMIER PARTNERS
ALUKO TEMILOLUWA, OMOLOLU
ALUKWU CHIBUIKE,
AMA OKORE, OKEREKE
AMADI CHARITY, CHIKWADOM
AMADI CHIMA, EMEKA
AMAECHI MOSHE, CHIJINDU
AMANFO LILIAN, UGONNA
AMEGUNU VICTOR, RAYMOND
AMUDA FUNKE, IYABO
ANAGBOGU MICHAEL, MATHEW
ANAGBOGU MICHAEL, MATTHEW
ANEGBU JOSEPH, IKECHI
ANIGIORO AMOS, OLADAPO
ANOSIKE SUNNY,
ANTHONY EBERE, MERCYMERIT
ANYA EUGENE, UCHECHUKWU
ANYABUIKE NKECHI, RONNIE
ANYANWU CHRISTOPHER, CHIBUZOR
ANYIBUOFU CHRISTOPHER,
APEL ASSET LTD - NOMINEES
APU OKEOGHENE, ANIEFIOK
APU SUNDAY, ERUOHWO SAMUEL
AREGBESOLA ABRAHAM, ABIODUN
AREMU JOSEPHINE, MOJISOLA
AREMU JOSHUA, O & JOSEPHINE 
REV & MRS
AREMU OLUSEGUN, ABIDEEN
AREMU RASHIDAT, KEHINDE
ARIGBABOWO ENIOLA,
ARIGBABOWO OLUWATOSIN,
ARIKAWE OLUTAYO, MORADEKE
ARM NOM: ESTATE OF CLEMENT 
ISONG
ARM NOM: HAJIA AISHA KATAGUN
ARM SECURITIES LTD/ TROVE 
TECHNOLOGIES
AROLEOWO GANIAT, ABIODUN
ARUM IFEANYICHUKWU, IGNATIUS
ARUM JOHN, YMAR .C.M
ASANGANSI EFFIONG, OKWONG
ASANGANSI EFFIONG, OKWONG
ASEDEKO HENRY, ABIODUN
ASOBARA IFEYINWA, M.
ATLAS INT ENGINEERING SERVICES 
NIG LTD
ATOBATELE TAOREED, ABIODUN
ATOYEBI MUFUTAU, ADEBAYO
ATRUISM VENTURES NIG. LTD
ATTAH EMMANUEL, OGEBE
ATTAH ENEYE, DANIEL
ATURAMU TOLULOPE,
ATUWO DAVID, HYELHIRRA
AUDU MATTHEW, ABU ESTATE OF

233
234
235

236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
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257
258
259
260
261

262
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265
266
267

268
269

270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277

278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285

S/No Beneficiary
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295

AUDU YUSUF, BUBA
AUGUSTINE ESTHER, FUNKE
AWE BABALOLA, BABAJIDE
AWEDA FELICIA, OLUWAKEMI
AWERE GODWIN, AJIROGHENE
AWOBIMPE KAYODE, CAMALDEEN K
AWODERO MICHAEL, OLUSEGUN
AWOJUYIGBE OLUMUYIWA, OLUDARE
AWONAIKE ESTHER, OLADUNNI
AWONAIKE RACHAEL, 
MOSEBOLATAN
AWONIYI OLUFEMI,
AXHOLME NOMINEES LTD 'IZ' A/C
AYADIUNO CHRISTOPHER, 
BELUCHUKWU
AYALOGU OBIANUJU, JENNIFER
AYANDA TITILAYO,
AYANRUOH ELIZABETH, DORA D.
AYIDA OMATSEYIN, AKENE
AYODEJI NURUDEEN,
AYODEJI OLAWALE, T
AYODELE OLAJIDE, ABAYOMI
AYODELE OLUSHOLA, OMOTAYO
AYO-VAUGHAN DANIEL,
AZEEZ AL-AMEEN, ISHOLA
AZEEZ JIMOH, OGUNBANWO
AZEEZ LUKMAN, ADEKUNLE
AZEEZ RASAKI, KOLAWOLE
AZEEZ SULAIMAN, AKINADE
BABALOLA ADEWALE,
BABATUNDE ADEWUNMI, TAIBAT
BABATUNDE MOSES, SUNDAY
BABATUNDE SAHEED-OLADIMEJI,
BAIYEWU OLUSEGUN(DR),
BAKARE ABDULAZEEZ, TOMISIN
BAKARE ADEBISI, OLUWAYEMISI
BAKARE OLAYEMI, KAFILU
BAKARE SHERIFAT,
BALOGUN ALAKE, LOLA
BALOGUN DEJI,
BALOGUN MUSA, (ALHAJI)
BALOGUN OLUWATOYIN, 
OLUWABUNMI
BALOGUN SEKINAT, MOPELOLA
BALOGUN SIKIRU, BOLARINWA
BALOGUN TOLULOPE,
BAMGBOSE ADERINOLA, ELIZABETH
BAMIGBOLA HABEEB, OLAKUNLE
BAMIGBOYE OLUWADARE, 
OLAYIWOLA
BANJOKO ABIODUN, OLUBUSOLA
BANJOKO OLASOJI, OLAKUNLE
BANKOLE JOSEPH, OLUMAYOKUN 
ADEFOLARIN
BANKOLE MOTUNRAYO,
BANKOLE OLUMUYIWA, JACOB
BANKOLE OLUWAKEMI, EKUNDAYO
BARANGO KENNEDY, S.
BAREEK GENERAL ENTERPRISES 
NIG LTD
BATHANNA STEPHEN, JALVA
BATULA ADISA, BOONYAMIN ALHAJI

299

296
297
298

299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308
309
310
311
312
313
314
315
316
317
318
319
320
321
322
323
324
325

326
327
328
329
330
331

332
333
334

335
336
337
338
339

340
341

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Unclaimed dividend list  | continued

S/No Beneficiary
342
343
344
345
346
347
348
349
350
351
352

BATULA HAKEEM,
BAYOKO EBI, REGINALD
BEECROFT JOHN, OLUWAFEMI
BELLO ADISA, SULE
BELLO AUGUSTINE, OLUSANYA
BELLO ITOPA, PAUL
BELLO KOKO, MOHAMMED ATP
BELLO MUIBAT, AINA
BENEDICT ALBERT, AJIBOLA
BENSON AYODELE, BABATUNDE
BINITIE EBOSENOBUWATALE, 
ADEOLUWA
BISAMI NIGERIA LTD - ACCOUNT 2
BODE ADEOLU GLOBAL ASSOCIATES
BOLARINWA TOSIN, LUQMAN
BUKO ADESHOLA, AKINLOLU
CALEB CHRISTINE LTD
CAPITAL SHAREHOLODERS 
ASSOCIATION
CELLCORE LTD
CHIALIKA FESTUS, SUNDAY
CHIDUME NWANNEAMAKA, JACINTA
CHIKEKA VIVIAN, ADANMA
CHRIS-ASOLUKA SOMACHI, 
CHIDUMEBI
CHUKWU EUCHARIA, NWAKAEGO
CHUKWU JULIET, NNENNA
CHUKWU NWAKAEGO, CHRISTANA
CHUKWUDI FRANCIS, CHIDERA
CHUKWUEMEKA ANTHONY, AZUKA
CHUKWUMA OFEBI,
CONNAL STUART
CORNERSTONE STAFF COOPERATIVE 
SOCIETY
CSL NOMINEE ACCOUNT 'CX'
CSL NOMINEES A/C 'BR'
CYRIACUS CHUKWUDI, MAXIMILIAN
CYRIACUS IFEANYI, VALENTINE
DA SILVA, TEKOA TIAGO
DADA AKINLOLUWA, JOHN
DAIRO SEGUN, DAYO
DAN -, JUMBO TAMUNOALA M
DANIEL-IYOGUN CHUKWUBUIKEM, 
ODENOSE
DANJUMA KAMORUDEEN, AJAO
DARA ADEOLUWA, EMMANUEL
DARAMOLA AWOYINKA,
DARAMOLA KOLAWOLE, DANIEL
DAUKORU EDMUND, MADUABEBE
DAWODU OMOLARA, ADIAT
DAYO OLAGUNJU, OLUBUNMI
DAYO-OLAGUNJU OLUBUNMI, 
ONAJITE
D-BEST ACHIEVERS SHAREHOLDERS 
ASS
DEKE OGENAGWE, VICTOR
DELANO OLUFISOYE,
DENG ANDREW, JADEN
DENNI-FIBERESIMA DAMIEBI,
DIEKOLOLA LATEEF, KUNLE
DIKE EVA, CHIJIOKE
DIKKO AISHA, IBRAHIM

353
354
355
356
357
358

359
360
361
362
363

364
365
366
367
368
369
370
371

372
373
374
375
376
377
378
379
380

381
382
383
384
385
386
387
388

389

390
391
392
393
394
395
396

300

S/No Beneficiary
397
398

DOKUBO IGONIBO, WILFRED
DONNA OBASEKI-OGUNNAIKE, 
OLOHI
DREAMBEAUTY VENTURES LIMITED
DUROJAIYE ADEDOYIN,
DUROJAIYE ANTHONIA, OLAIDE
DUROJAIYE KOLAWOLE, OLALEKAN
DUROWAIYE ADEWUNMI, AFUSAT
DUROWAIYE IYABO, YETUNDE
DURU P., NGOZI
EBELECHUKWU UBAKA,
EBIEFIE ANTE, OKON
EBOH ERIC, CHIEDUM
ECOMARK INVESTMENT LIMITED
EDAFE OGHENERUKEWE, 
ALEXANDER
EDDO MARK,
EDE MODINAT, ADEDOYIN
EDEVBIE DAVID,
EFFIONG ODUOBIT,
EFUNTADE ALANI, OLUSEGUN
EFUWAPE JOSHUA, AFOLABI
EGBAGBE AUGUSTINE, SUNDAY
EGBUCHELEM NNAMDI, JACOB
EGEIN MUNAFA, MOSES
EGIARHUOYI PAUL, IYAEZERE
EGWU OLUWAYEMISI, ADEDOYIN
EGWUENU CHIDI I. & ROSALINE O.
EHINMOWO AFOLABI, OLUSEGUN
EHUWA OLUWATOBI, BLESSING
EHUWA SUNDAY, VICTOR
EJALONIBU IBRAHEEM, 
ADEGBOYEGA
EJEMBI PATRICK, OKO
EJISHE OPI, JUSTIN
EKANEM EMA-EKOP, SAMPSON
EKANEM JOE, & CAROLINE
EKANEM SAMPSON, EKANEM
EKE CHIBUZOR, EMMANUEL
EKE CHIDIUTO, CHIDERA
EKE CHIKAMSO, NWAYINMA
EKE KELECHI, PASCHAL
EKE THELMA, IJEOMA
EKEBI KENNETH, IDO
EKEGHE OGBONNAYA, NDUKA
EKERE CHUKWUEMEKA, 
IHEANACHO
EKHOIYAYI AGHAHOWA,
EKONG EBONG, UDO
EKPE CYRIL, EZIEFULE & KARIN 
CHINYERE
EKPEKI OMOWHARE, WILLIAM
EKWELI EMMANUEL, 
CHUKWUNYEAKA
EKWERIKE KENNEDY, OGBONNA
ELEKEDE BABATUNDE, SULAY 
ENIOLA
ELF COOP OMESURU UMEJURU AKE
ELLA VINCENT,
EMENUWA &, IJEOMA JAJA-
WACHUKU
EMHIOBOH I, MICHAEL
EMMANUEL NANPAN, JAMES

399
400
401
402
403
404
405
406
407
408
409
410

411
412
413
414
415
416
417
418
419
420
421
422
423
424
425
426

427
428
429
430
431
432
433
434
435
436
437
438
439

440
441
442

443
444

445
446

447
448
449

450
451

S/No Beneficiary
452
453
454
455
456
457
458

ENE LEO, CHINEDU
ENEH PEARL, NKECHI
ENE-ITA ANNE, NKESE
ENI CHUKWUEMEKE, JOHNNIE
ENIAFE MUJIDAT, TEMITOPE
ENLIL INVESTMENT LTD
ENTERPRISE TRUST INSURANCE 
BROKERS LTD
EPHRAIM ANIEFIOK, DANIEL
ERETAN OLUWOLE, RICHMOND
ERINFOLAMI BOSERECALEB, 
IJAODOLATIOLUWA
ERINFOLAMI SALEMSON, ADEMOLA 
TEMILOLUWA
ERINOLA MATTHEW, KOLAWOLE 
AKEEM
ERUKAKPOMREN CHRISTOPHER, 
OKOTETE
ERUVBETINE OBOR, ENAEME
ERUVBETINE PREM, ENAEME
ESSIEN PETER, SIMON
ESTHER OMIKUNLE,
ETIKO ASIMIU, MONINUOLA
ETIM EMMANUEL, EDET
ETIM NATHANIEL, OTO-OBONG
ETOMI DAMINABO, DENNIS OSAGIE
EVBOTA HARRIET, ADEKUNBI
EWHRUDJAKPOR OBIKU,
EYETSEMITAN TOJU, PHILIP
EZE SOBECHUKWU, FRANCIS
EZEANI IGNATIUS, MAJESTY
EZECHUKWU AUGUSTINE, 
NNAEMEKA
EZEIGBO OBINALI, G
EZEKWEM CHIDUBEM, IKENNA 
WILLIAM
EZENDIOKWERE BENJAMIN, J.E.
EZENMA CHUKWUKA, COSMAS
EZENWAJIAKU THEOPHILUS,
EZEOKE ROSEMARY, 
AMARACHUKWU
EZEOKEKE AUGUSTUS, AMECHI 
CHUKWUDUM
EZIKE RAPHAEL, EMEKA
EZUGWU EMILIA, CHISOM
EZULIKE CHIJIOKE, DENNIS
EZULIKE CHIKA, VICTORIA
FABUDAH SEGUN, RAPHAELS
FABYAN FLORA,
FAGBAYIDE OLUKAYODE, OLUWOLE
FAGBOHUNGBE AYOMIDE,
FAJOYE OGUNYEMI,
FAJUSIGBE SONIA, ONOVUGHAKPO
FALADE OLUMUYIWA, TEMITOPE
FALESE TEMITOPE,
FALORE OLUWASIKEMI, AYONITEMI
FAMOUS AKEEM,
FANIYI GRACE, OLUWATOYIN
FARODOYE OLAYEMI, JAMES
FAROMBI OLUSHOLA, ABIOLA
FASASI ADEOLA, SARIYU
FASHINA AJIBADE, TAOFEEK
FATOLA JOSEPH, OLUFUNMILADE

459
460
461

462

463

464

465
466
467
468
469
470
471
472
473
474
475
476
477
478

479
480

481
482
483
484

485

486
487
488
489
490
491
492
493
494
495
496
497
498
499
500
501
502
503
504
505

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020S/No Beneficiary
506
507
508
509

FATUNBI RUTH, BOSEDE
FAWOLE TAIWO, GANIYU
FAWUNMI ABIODUN, BAMIDELE
FBNQAM/ MR ROTIMI ASHLEY-DEJO 
& MRS
FEYIDE OLUFEMI, ADEOLA
FEYIDE OLUFEMI, ADEOLA
FIDELIS EJIMAMU, OKEHIE
FIN INSURANCE CO. LIMITED
FOLAMI & ASSOCIATES
FOLAYAN OLUWAROTIMI, 
CHRISTOPHER
FOSUG NIG LTD
FOWOKAN MACLEAN, AKANBI
FOWOWE MICHAEL, OLASUPO 
ABIOLA
FRANCIS OLAMIDE, LOLA ABOSEDE
GAFAR RASHEED,
GANIYU WASIU, AYINDE
GARUBA SAIDU, KEWUYEMI
GBADAMOSI MOJISOLA, MULIKAT 
ADEOLA
GBADAMOSI MUDASHIRU, ATANDA
GBADEGESIN SUNDAY, AJIBOLA
GBADERO MICHAEL, KAYODE
GEM ASSETS MANAGEMENT 
LIMITED
GESUNDHEIT & REICHTUM LIMITED
GOFWEN NENGAK,
GOFWEN NENPINMWA,
GREEN LEAF PHARMACY -
HAFSATU NASIRU, ABOKI
HAMILTON RACHAEL, OLUFUNKE
HAMZA RIDHWAN, BOLADALE
HASSAN FEYISAYO, AISHAT
HASSAN TITILAYO, AZEEZAT
HENSHAW BASSEY, EWA
HOUNTON CHRISTIANA,
HUSSAINI IBRAHIM,
IBE LEO,
IBITOYE EMMANUEL, KOLAWOLE
IBIWOYE JOSEPH, TAYE
IBRAHEEM MOSES, GBOLAHAN
IBRAHIM DIKKO,
IBRAHIM ISSA, LEKAN
IBRAHIM IYANUOLUWA, DAVID
IBRAHIM MURITALA, IYANDA
IBRAHIM NANA, HAUWA
IDEAL GLOBAL INVEST RESOURCES 
LTD
IDOWU BOLAJI, AFOLABI
IDRIS MUSA, ISA
IDUMA JOHN, JENNIFER
IFABUA AHMED, OHIORENUWAN
IFEANYI OKEY, FESTUS
IFEDIORA EMMANUEL, EBERE
IFEOBU MMELICHUKWU,
IGBASANMI BUKOLA, AKINRINBIDO
IGBASANMI OLATOMIDE, JOHN 
(ALLEGED DECEASED PHC 
NO.1759L/2015)
IGBINOVIA MARYANN, 
HUNONYEMESI

510
511
512
513
514
515

516
517
518

519
520
521
522
523

524
525
526
527

528
529
530
531
532
533
534
535
536
537
538
539
540
541
542
543
544
545
546
547
548
549

550
551
552
553
554
555
556
557
558

559

S/No Beneficiary
560
561
562
563
564
565
566

IGBRUDE MOSES, OKE
IGE GABRIEL, BABASOLA
IGE YUSUF, AMUDA
IGHODARO KUDI, YEMI
IGWEZE FELIX, NNAEMEKA
IHEANACHO STEPHEN, CHINONSO
IHEGBU CHIDIEBERE, 
MACLAWRENCE
IHEJIENE NGOZI, AUGUSTINA
IHUOMA BENJAMIN, TOCHUKWU
IJOMA FIDELIS.OPIA.ODILI,
IKOKU ALVAN, ENYINNAYA
IKOTUN OLALEKAN, KAYODE
ILESANMI OLUDOLAPO,
ILUFOYE OYELOLA, ALLI
IMAGELINKS ROYAL PROPERTIES LTD
IMAGELINKS TRAVEL AND TOURS 
LIMITED
IMEH GODWIN, GBOTA
IMO OBUMNEME, EZE
IMOLEOLU ADESOLA, FLORENCE
IMORU CLEMENT, AYODELE
INDI THOMAS,
INENEMO ABDULWAHAB, USMAN
INNIH IYOBO,
INVEST.ONE/AXA MANSARD EQUITY 
INC.FUND-T
I-ONE E-PORTFOLIO AC - 188
I-ONE E-PORTFOLIO AC - 195
I-ONE E-PORTFOLIO AC - 197
IOU INVESTMENT, ADVISERS LTD
ISAH LUCKY, IMOBE
ISAIAH EMEKA, PHILIP
ISAIAH PRINCE, JOSHUA
ISAIAH ROSELINE, NGOZI
ISHAKU ISRAEL, MALLAM
ISIAKA MARZUQ, OLADIPUPO
ISIAKA YUSUFF, ORIYOMI
ISIJOLA AYOKA, OLUWARANTI
ISMAILA ZUBAIRU,
ISOKRARI NENGI,
ISSA NIMOTA, BOLANLE
ITAUMA MERCY, ETEAKAMBA
ITONYO EBITARI, CHIMA
ITSUOKOR CHARLES,
IWU ELIZABETH, ADA
IWU GABRIEL, CHINEYE
IYANIWURA MODINAT, KOFOWOROLA
IYEIMO ILAMINA,
JAIYE-GBENLE BOLUWATIFE,
JAJA-WACHUKU CHUKWUEMEKA,
JAMES AKINTOMIDE,
JAMES AYODELE, MORAYO
JAMES DANIEL, ONUCHE
JAMES EMMANUEL, EDET
JIMOH AUGUSTINE, A & JIMOH IYABO 
O
JIMOH BISIRIYU, AYINLA
JIMOH MOHAMMED, OLUWAFEMI
JIMOH-KUKU ISMAIL, OLANIRAN
JINADU LAMIDI, OLANIRAN
JINADU MUSTAPHA, ISHOLA

567
568
569
570
571
572
573
574
575

576
577
578
579
580
581
582
583

584
585
586
587
588
589
590
591
592
593
594
595
596
597
598
599
600
601
602
603
604
605
606
607
608
609
610
611
612

613
614
615
616
617

S/No Beneficiary
618
619
620
621
622
623

JINADU RASAK, ADISA (ALHAJI)
JINADU WASIU, OLABISI
JIWUMETO ADEBISI, AJOKE
JOHNSON ADEOLA,
JOHNSON FRANCIS, IKWUE
JOSEPH OLUWASEGUFUNMI, 
ELIZABETH
JOSHUA SEUN, OSHUNOLALE
JOWOSIMI ADEMOLU, MATTEW
JOWOSIMI OLUBUNMI, TEMITOPE
KADIRI ABAYOMI, SHEWU
KALU-ANYA CHRISTIAN,
KAREEM OLADIMEJI, OLOLADE
KAREEM TAWA, JUMOKE
KASIM FAUZIYYAH KIKELOMO
KASIM JOSHUA, TIWATAYO
KASIM JOTHAM, TIWATOPE
KATSINA STATE INVESTMENT 
& PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT 
COMPANY LIMITED
KAYODE OLUWASEUN, MARY
KAZEEM ABIBOLA, MUSILI
KAZEEM MUSINO, IYABO
KESANDU-UCHENYI ONYENWE, 
IFEUDE
KEYSTONE GLOBAL SYNERGY LTD
KLUB SUPREMOS
KOLAWOLE IBRAHIM, INUMIDUN
KOLAWOLE YEKINNI, ALABI
KOLAWOLE-YUSUF OLAMIDE, BUNMI
KOLEOSO HIKMOT, ADUNOLA
KOLEOSO KAZEEM, ADEWALE
KRAGHA CHRISTOPHER, 
OGHENERUME
KRUGER HOTEL & SUITES LTD
KRUKRUBO AYEBADOMO, IKIOMOYE
KUKU ABIMBOLA, ALAMI
KUMOEI LIMITED,
KUPOLOKUN MOSES, FUNSHO
KUYORO DANIEL, AYODEJI
KWAKPOVWE VERONICA,
LAIYENBI KARIMO, MOPELOLA O
LAIYENBI KASSIM, ADEWALE
LAMINA SIKIRU, TAIWO
LANIYAN JONATHAN, OLADEJO 
SUNDAY
LATEEF MUFUTAU, (MR.)
LATEEF YAHAYA, FUNSHO
LATINWO TOLANI,
LAWAL ADEREMI, KOKUMO 
DUROJAIYE
LAWAL BOSE, ADENIKE
LAWAL FALILAT, OLAWUNMI
LAWAL GANIYAT, OMOTOLANI
LAWAL LATEEFU, ATANDA
LAWAL MORUF, OLANREWAJU
LAWAL MUFUTAU, ASHERU
LAWAL NOJEEM, OLAWALE
LAWAL OLAYINKA, ISMAIL
LAWAL RASAQ, OLANREWAJU
LAWAL RASHEED, OLASUNKANMI
LAWAL RISIKAT, JOKE
LAWAL TIMILEHIN, ANU-OLUWAPO

301

624
625
626
627
628
629
630
631
632
633
634

635
636
637
638

639
640
641
642
643
644
645
646

647
648
649
650
651
652
653
654
655
656
657

658
659
660
661

662
663
664
665
666
667
668
669
670
671
672
673

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Unclaimed dividend list  | continued

S/No Beneficiary
674
675
676
677
678
679
680

LAWAL WAHAB, OLATUNJI
LAWANSON GANIAT, OLAYEMI
LAWSON BERNARD,
LAYADE OLUWABUSAYOMI,
LESLIE ASARE,
LIASU TOYIN, RACHEAL
LINKAGE ASSURANCE PLC - 
TRADING
LOTUS CAPITAL LIMITED -
LUFADEJU OLUGBENGA, ADERINOLA
LUKMON OLADAYO, BULIAMEEN

681
682
683
684 MACAULAY AYOKUNLE, OMOTOLA
685 MACAULAY KAREEM, ABIODUN
686 MACGREGOR JOSEPH, OLUSOLA
687 MADUEKE UGONNA, ALISON
688 MADUFORO GOLDEN, C.
689 MADUFORO GOLDEN, CLEMENT
690 MADUKO FIDELIS, OGBOGU
691 MAJARO AKINWALE, & 
ADEBUKUNOLA

692 MAJEKODUNMI ADEWUNMI, 

EDMUND

693 MAJEKODUNMI OLUTOBILOBA, 

ABIOLA

694 MAKANJUOLA OLADAYO, ABDUL 

YEKINI

695 MAKINDE ADEMOLA, STEPHEN 

KAYODE

696 MAKINDE OLABISI, AINA
697 MAKINDE TOMIWA, MATTHEW
698 MARAYESA OLUWADUROTIMI, 

OLUWASEUN

699 MARTINS TOYIN, TOLULOPE
700 MAYOWA-PATRICK BAMIDELE, 

ODUNAYO (MRS)

701 MBAEGBU INNOCENT, CHUKWUDI
702 MBAEGBU INNOCENT, CHUKWUDI
703 MBAH LAWRENCE, KWENDE
704 MBAM ALFRED, EZE
705 MBC SECURITIES, NOMINEE OBUM
706 MEGGISON TITILOLA,
707 MENSAH NICHOLAS, TAWIAH
708 MGBEAHURIKE ONYEBUCHI, 

IGBOKWE

709 MGBENU IFEANYICHUKWU, 

CHIKAODILI

710 MOMOH DOYINSOLA, 
ABDULQUAYUM

711 MORADEYO DAVID, ADEMOLA
712 MORDI ANTHONIA, EKENE
713 MORGAN CAPITAL SEC-TRADED-

STCK-AC

714 MOROCCO-CLARKE SUSAN, 

AYODELE

715 MOSHOOD ISIAKA, TUNDE
716 MOSURO YAKUBU, TITILAYO
717 MOT OLAYIWOLA, TOBUN
718 MOTOLATOB NIG. LIMITED
719 MOUNT ZION HOLY TOURS LTD
720 MPAMAUGO EDITH, 

NWANWEREUCHE

721 MPAMAUGO SAMUEL, CHINENYE
722 MR&MRS CHRISTOPHER, & 
ROSALIND OYENEKAN

302

S/No Beneficiary
723 MR&MRS IKPONMWOSA, JAMES 

ODIASE

724 MR&MRS NATHANIEL, OLADAYO 

OYATOGUN

725 MUDASHIRU USMAN, AKANBI
726 MUFUTAU OMOLOLA, BUKOLA
727 MUHAMMED ABDULLAHI, ADESHINA
728 MUHAMMED IBRAHIM,
729 MUKAILA KAFILAT, AJOKE
730 MUKAILA-LAWAL KENECHUKWU, 

LAURA

731 MUKHTAR ABDULBASIT, TENIOLA
732 MULTRACTS INVESTMENT LTD
733 MUNADAS MULTI CONCEPT LIMITED
734 MURITALA IDAYAT, TEMITOPE
735 MUSA SHITTU, ABOKI
736 MUSTAFA MUHAMMED, HAMISU
737 MUSTAPHA WASILAT, AYOBAMI
738 MWML NOMINEES LTD-MAO 

ACCOUNT
NAJEEM SALAWA, OLUWAKEMI
NARDAU INVESTMENT CO. LTD
NDUBUISI EKENEDIRICHUKWU, 
CHIOMA
NEM INSURANCE PLC
NGWUOCHA CHIKE, CHARLES
NIGERIAN INTER., SEC-TRADED-
STOCK-A/C
NISL INVESTMENT NOMINEE
NISL VENTURES LIMITED
NJEMANZE JULIET, CHINYERENGOZI
NJOKU CHRISTIAN, CHINONYEREM
NJOKU REMIGIUS, NWACHUKWU
NNAETO ONYINYE, UZOAMAKA
NNAJI DANIEL,
NNAMDI JOHN, OKONKWO
NNAMNO C, NWOSU
NNOROM HARISON, U
NOJEEM ISMAILA, SEGUN
NORTH WEST PETROLEUM & GAS 
LTD
NORTHWEST PETROLEUM & GAS
NURUDEEN ABOLORE, MODINAT
NURUDEEN OLUSEGUN, OYELEYE
NWABUEZE KINSLEY, KENECHUKWU
NWABUGHOGU BRIGHT,
NWABUIHE OLIVER, SIL
NWABUNIKE HARRISON, CHIAGOZIE
NWACHUKWU AKOWUNDU,
NWACHUKWU JOHN, IFESINACHI
NWACHUKWU OGBONNAYA, OBI
NWAGBOM CONSTANTINA, 
ONYEKACHI
NWAGURU CHRISTOPHER, 
OKECHUKWU
NWAIGBO CHILEZIEMANYA, K.
NWAKANMA N, KINGSLEY
NWANKPA EJIKE, C.
NWOGU PRECIOUS, ONYEDIKACHI
NWOKEH OMENUKOR-AKU,
NWOKO EDWIN, ONUWA 
CHIKWEKWEM
NWOKORIE EUGENE, MADU

739
740
741

742
743
744

745
746
747
748
749
750
751
752
753
754
755
756

757
758
759
760
761
762
763
764
765
766
767

768

769
770
771
772
773
774

775

S/No Beneficiary
776
777
778
779
780
781
782
783
784
785
786
787
788
789
790
791
792
793
794

NWOSU HYGINUS, EMEKA JP
NWOSU PEACE, CHIDI
NWOSU SUNDAY, NNAMDI
NWOSU SYLVESTER, ETEKWUTE
NYONG OKON, ABRAHAM
OBA KAFILAT, MOJISOLA
OBADEMI JOSHUA, OLUYEMI
OBAFEMI ADENIYI, ESURUOSO
OBARINDE ISAAC, OBATOSHO
OBASI CHRISTIAN, ANELECHI
OBATAYO JOHN, OLUWAFEMI
OBAYEMI FEYISARA, JANET
OBAYOMI IDOWU,
OBI AZUBUIKE, EMMANUEL
OBI EJIOFOR, ANTHONY
OBI FIDELIS, CHUKS
OBI OKEZIE, PRINCE
OBIANYOR EMEKA, TOBENNA
OBIDEYI ASEPENISEOLUWA, 
VINCENT
OBIDEYI EFUNYEMI, OLATUNDE
OBIDEYI ITEOLUWAKIISHI, JOAN 
MORENIKE
OBIDIKE ANTHONY, IKECHUKWU
OBIERI CHUKWUEBUKA, OBIORA
OBIERI CHUKWUEBUKA, OBIORA
OBINNAYA SOLOMON, OLUWATOBI
OBISESAN AKINWALE, TAIWO & JOY
OBISESAN OLUGBENGA,
OBODOZIE CONSTANCE, ONYEKA
OCHEI DENNIS, OSADEBAY
OCHOGU EMMANUEL, CHIBUEZE
ODARANILE MOHAMMED,
ODE COMFORT, OLUWASEYI
ODELEYE OLUWASESAN, JAMES
ODEYEMI JOSHUA, OLALEKAN
ODITA CHARLES, CHIEDU
ODOI-OLUDEMILADE PAUL, NII 
PRINCE
ODOZI UCHE,
ODU CYRIL,
ODUGBEMI REGINA, AITUAJE
ODUKALE ABIMBOLA, ADEBOYE
ODUMADE PETER, AFOLABI 
OLAREWAJU
ODUME FESTUS, AZUBUIKE
ODUNAIYA ABIOLA, OLUBUNMI
ODUNGIDE IMA,
ODUNSI TOLULOPE, JOSHUA
ODUNTAN GANIYU, ADE
ODUNTAN OMOTAYO, MORENIKE
ODUNUGA SAMIAT, ADEBANKE
ODUSANYA OPE, ANIKE
ODUSOLA BABAJIDE,
ODUSOTE OLATUNBOSUN, ANIKE
ODUWOLE OLADAYO,
OFFOR KINGSLEY, ONYEMAENCHI
OFFOZOR MATTHEW,
OFILI OGHENEFEGO,
OFILI VICTOR, NNABUNDO
OFOHA IKENNA, KENNETH
OFOYELA ENOR,

795
796

797
798
799
800
801
802
803
804
805
806
807
808
809
810
811

812
813
814
815
816

817
818
819
820
821
822
823
824
825
826
827
828
829
830
831
832
833

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020850
851
852
853
854

839
840
841
842
843
844
845
846
847
848
849

855
856
857
858
859
860
861
862
863
864
865
866

S/No Beneficiary
OGBE DAVID,
834
OGBE TASHEGBONE, KOKOGHO
835
OGBU CHUKWUMA,
836
OGBUDJA OSCAR,
837
OGBUMMAH WOGWUGWU, 
838
THEOPHILUS U.
OGHENERUKEVWE AKPORE,
OGIDI ANTHONIA, OMOLOLA
OGINNI JOSHUA, OLUWOLE
OGINNI SUNDAY, PATRICK
OGUIKE-OLERU FABIAN, NNAMDI
OGUJIUBA GRACE, IFEYINWA
OGUNADE TAIWO, ADEBIYI
OGUNBESAN SHOLA, JAMIU
OGUNBIYI YUSUF, GBENGA
OGUNBOR RISI, E.
OGUNDAHUNSI OLUMIDE, & 
OMOBOLA
OGUNDARE AKINNIYI, MOSES
OGUNDEJI MOSES, AYODELE
OGUNDELE ADETUTU, OLUREMI
OGUNEKUN ADEBOYE, LAPEKUN O
OGUNKANMBI SAMUEL, 
OLANREWAJU
OGUNKENU OLUSOLA, (MRS)
OGUNLEYE AFOLARIN, AFOLABI
OGUNLEYE AYODELE, (DR)
OGUNMODEDE GABRIEL,
OGUNNAIKE OLUBUKOLA, OMOLARA
OGUNNIYI TUNBOSUN, OLUFEMI
OGUNSOLA ADEDAYO, OLUWASEGUN
OGUNTOYE OLUWATOPE, LAWRENCE
OGUNYEMI OLUSEGUN,
OHADOMERE OSINACHI, EMMANUEL
OHAEGBULAM NESHMET, CHIKE
OHIFUEMEH OLAYINKA, 
ANUOLUWAPO
OHUABUNWA NNAMDI, GODFREY
OJISUA MOYO,
OJO ADELEKE, ISEOLUWA
OJO JOSHUA, AKINDELE
OJO STEPHEN, ADETUNJI
OJOLOWO HAMMED, OLAYIWOLA
OJUKOTOLA RAHAMON, OLUWOLE
OJUMU ROLAND,
OKAFOR ANWULI,
OKAFOR AUGUSTINE, AZUBUIKE
OKAFOR BLESSING, NKEONYERE
OKAFOR CHRISTIAN, 
CHUKWUEMEKA
OKAFOR CHUKWUDERA, SAMUEL
OKAFOR CHUKWUEMEKA, ADRIAN
OKAFOR EMMANUEL, 
NKWACHUKWU
OKAFOR EMMANUEL, 
NKWACHUKWU MR & MRS
OKAFOR RUTH, ESOHE
OKANLAWON SAMUEL, ADEGOKE
OKEKE M, JOHN
OKELEYE ADENIKE, ELIZABETH
OKELEYE DAMILOLA,
OKELEYE ENOCH, ANJOLA-OLUWA
OKELEYE ISRAEL, AYODAMOPE

867
868
869
870
871
872
873
874
875
876
877
878

883
884
885
886
887
888
889

879
880
881

882

S/No Beneficiary
890
891
892
893
894
895
896
897
898
899
900
901
902
903
904
905
906
907
908
909
910
911
912
913
914

OKELEYE RACHAEL, OREOLUWA
OKENWA EBUKA, SAMUEL
OKEOLA SALIU, BAYO (MR)
OKESOOTO IPADEOLA, JONATHAN
OKETE PETER, OSUBU
OKOAHABA INNOCENT, BOLUM
OKODO IFEANYI, CORNELIUS
OKOH EMMANUEL, ODE
OKOH PETER, KNIGHT
OKOLIE HUMPHREY, EZE
OKOLO UMUNALI,
OKON EMMANUEL, E.
OKORIE RICHARD,
OKORO IBEKWE, APOLLOS
OKOROAFOR CHIKE, SOPURUCHI
OKOROAFOR IGNATIUS, EJILUGWU
OKOROIGWE ESTHER, ONYEKACHI
OKOYE LEONARD, CHUKWUEMEKA
OKOYE NNENNA, CHIOMA
OKOYE VICTOR,
OKPADILE LESLIE,
OKPARA CHUKWUMAIHE,
OKPARA CHUKWUMAIHE, G.
OKPO UNO, EDET
OKUNGBURE BABATUNDE, 
OLUWAYOMI
OKUNRIBIDO OLADIPUPO, 
OLUFOLARANMI
OKUNROBO MARY, ABIEYUWA
OKWUADA SAMUEL, KESSINGTON
OKWUSA CHUKWUEBUKA, 
CHIDIEBERE
OLABISI ADEDAYO,
OLABODE FELICIA, OLURANTI
OLABODE JEREMIAH,
OLABODE OLUSEGUN, VICTOR
OLABODE SHADIAT, OLABISI
OLADAPO LATIFAT, KEMI
OLADELE SEGUN,
OLADIJI OLAYIMIKA, OLUWAFEMI
OLADOKE SUNDAY, ISAAC
OLADOSU ISLAMIYAT, ADETUTU
OLAGBAIYE OLAMILEKAN, TOBI
OLAGBAJU NIMOTA, ADEPEJU
OLAGUNJU GABRIEL ADEWALE
OLAITAN OLAOLU,
OLAJIDE ADEBAYO, BAMIDELE
OLAJIDE OLUKAYODE,
OLAJIGA OLUFEMI, AYODEJI
OLAJOSAGBE JOHN, OLUBUNMI
OLAJOSAGBE JOHN, OLUBUNMI
OLAJUWON ENIOLA, OLAKUNLE
OLALEKAN LIADI, RASAKI
OLALEKAN PEDRO,
OLALEYE ADEYEMI, ELIJAH
OLALEYE OLAKUNLE, MICHAEL
OLANIYAN RAMOTA, OLUWABUNMI
OLANREWAJU FILANI OLADAPO
OLANREWAJU KAZEEM, ADIO
OLASEHINDE ADENIKE, KEMI
OLASEHINDE FESTUS, OLUWASEUN

915

916
917
918

919
920
921
922
923
924
925
926
927
928
929
930
931
932
933
934
935
936
937
938
939
940
941
942
943
944
945
946
947

S/No Beneficiary
948

949
950
951
952
953
954
955
956
957
958
959
960
961
962
963
964
965
966
967
968
969
970
971
972
973
974
975
976
977
978

979
980
981
982
983
984
985

986
987
988
989
990
991
992
993
994
995

OLASEHINDE OLUWATOSIN, 
BENJAMIN
OLASUPO SHITTU, KAZEEM
OLATONA REBECCA, OPEYEMI
OLATUNDUN RASHEED, OLABISI
OLAWUMI JOSEPH, OLALEKAN
OLAYEYE RAOLAT, TOLANI
OLAYIWOLA MARIAM, OLAIDE
OLEKA JOHNBOSCO, CHIGOZIE
OLEKA SIXTUS, UCHE
OLIVE COURT CHARITY FOUNDATION
OLIVER IKE ORJIAKO
OLIYIDE TITILOLA,
OLOAPUPO RAHMAT, ADEOLA
OLOKPA DAROCHA, JOHNSON
OLOKPA FIDELIA,
OLOTU OLUSOJI, OLABODE
OLOWOOKERE ENIOLA, ABOSEDE
OLOWOOKERE SULAIMON, AYINDE
OLOWOSALE AYOMIDE, BASIT
OLOWU ABIODUN, ABODUNRIN
OLUBIYI ROTIMI, ALFRED
OLUGBOSUN ARIYO, AYO
OLUGBOSUN BANJI,
OLUJITAN ABAYOMI, TOLULOPE
OLUKEMI ESAN ADEWONUOLA
OLUKOJU AYODEJI, ABAYOMI
OLUSANYA OLUREMI, OLUKUNLE
OLUSEGUN OLUFEMI, DANIEL
OLUSOLA OLUSEYI, OLABIYI
OLU-TIMA OLUMIDE, TAMUNO
OLUWAJEMISIN FAVOUR, 
OLUWASEUN
OLUWANIYI JEREMIAH, OLUGBENGA
OLUWASEUN OMOTOSHO,
OLUWOLE GABRIEL, AKANBI
OMARUAYE FRANCES,
OMIPITAN OMOTAYO, JONAH
OMOGBEHIN SOLA, ZACH
OMOGBEYISOLA ADEMOLA, 
MARTINS
OMOGIAFO OWEN, DIANA
OMOJOLA JOSHUA, DAMILOLA
OMOLE ABRAHAM, OLAMILEKAN
OMOLE DEBORAH, MORADEKE
OMOLE JOSEPH, ADEDEJO
OMONIYI KIKEYEMI, ELIZABET
OMOSHEBI STEPHEN, EKUNDAYO
OMOTESO ADEBAYO, OPEYEMI
OMOTOLA ADURALERE, ADEOLUWA
OMOTOLANI ADETOUN, LAIYENBI 
MUTIAT
OMOTOYE ADEWALE,
OMOYA OLANREWAJU, AYOBAMI
OMOYELE ADESOJI, BODUNDE
ONABANJO OLUROTIMI, OLUGBUYI

996
997
998
999
1000 ONADEKO SAMUEL, IMOLEAYO
1001 ONAKPOVHIE ONAGITE, EMMANUEL
1002 ONASANYA BAKIU, ADENIYI
1003 ONASANYA OMOLOLA, ARIBIKE
1004 ONEKUTU EMMANUEL, AKAGU
1005 ONIFADE MUYIWA, WAHEED

303

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Unclaimed dividend list  | continued

S/No Beneficiary
1006 ONIKOYI BABATUNDE, YEKEEN
1007 ONIOVOSA SAMUEL
1008 ONITIRI ADESUNBO, ADENIJI DAVID
1009 ONIWINDE OMOLARA, ADEBISI
1010 ONOKA NNENNA,
1011 ONOKURHEFE BENSON, IRHIKEVWIE
1012 ONOKURHEFE BENSON, IRHIKEVWIE
1013 ONU BERNARD, OKECHUKWU
1014 ONUCHE JAMES, DANIEL
1015 ONUIGWE JOHNSON, CHIMA
1016 ONUOHA CHIDI, CHIKWENDU
1017 ONWELUZO UZOAMAKA, SOPHIA
1018 ONWUJI JOHN, CHUKWUEMEKA
1019 ONWUKA LAZARUS, NNADOZIE
1020 ONWULIRI CHUKWUEMEKA, 

ONYEMAUCHE
1021 ONWUNYI LOTANNA,
1022 ONYEANUNA CHINEDU, KENNETH
1023 ONYEBUAGU IJEOYIBO, JENNIFER
1024 ONYEBUCHI HYCIENTH, 
ONYEAHIALAM

1025 ONYEBUCHI NNAEMEKA, CALEB
1026 ONYECHI IKECHUKWU, TAGBO
1027 ONYEJI UCHE, LILIAN
1028 ONYEKELU EMMANUEL, ONYEKACHI
1029 ONYEKELU EMMANUEL, ONYEKACHI
1030 ONYEKWELU NNAEMEKA, CHIJINDU
1031 ONYEMAEKE CHINWENDU, MATILDA
1032 ONYENOBI IJEOMA,
1033 ONYIA EMEKA, JUDE
1034 ONYIA ISRAEL, CHUKWUKA
1035 ONYIA UCHENNA, CHINYERE
1036 OPARA CLEMENT, ANAELE 

CHUKWUDI

1037 OPATOLA JOSEPH, OGUNDEYI
1038 OPATOLA JOSEPH, OGUNDEYI
1039 OPEGBUYI OKANLAWON, TAJUDEEN
1040 OPURUM EMMANUEL, THOMAS
1041 ORAGWU ALUBA, I. & PETER O.
1042 ORAH CHINEDU, JEROME
1043 OREFUWA BABATUNDE, ADEMOLA
1044 OREFUWA OLUWAGBENGA, GABRIEL
1045 OREFUWA OLUWASEYIFUNMI, D
1046 OREFUWA TEMITOPE, M
1047 ORENIYI TEMITOPE, LEKE
1048 ORIADE ABIODUN, JOB
1049 ORIOWO MARGARET, MAYOWA
1050 ORIVOH VICTOR,
1051 ORUADE OGHENEKOME,
1052 OSABUOHIEN KINGSLEY, 

OSARODION

1053 OSAMO DARE, OLUWASEGUN
1054 OSAYIMWEN OSASUMWEN, 

OSAYANDE

1055 OSHEWA FRANCISCA, AINA
1056 OSHIN ADESEGUN,
1057 OSHINFADE BOLA, TAYO
1058 OSHO ALEX, ABIOLA
1059 OSIKALU LUCIA, FUNMILAYO
1060 OSILEYEOLUGBENGA AFOLABI,
1061 OSOBA ADEYEMI, SOLOMON
1062 OSONDU JULIAN, IKECHUKWU

304

S/No Beneficiary
1063 OSOTA OBAFUNMILAYO, OLABOYE
1064 OSUJI UGOCHUKWU,
1065 OSUNDINA ADEDEJI, AKINKUNMI
1066 OSUNKOYA SUNDAY, AFOLABI
1067 OSUNKWO EBERE, WALTER
1068 OSUNYOMI OLUMIDE, YETUNDE
1069 OSUOHA A, CHIMA
1070 OTENIYA THERESA, OMOPONMILE
1071 OTOROLEHI-OKEZIE VICTORIA,
1072 OTSEMOBOR ENETOMHE,
1073 OTTIH CHIMAMANDA, CLAIRE
1074 OTUNLA DAPO,
1075 OTUONYE MERCY, NKECHI
1076 OVIAWE NOSAMUDIANA, ABIGAIL
1077 OWIEADOLOR OSARIEMEN, SIMON
1078 OWIEADOLOR OSARIEMEN, SIMON
1079 OWO FAUSAT, ABIODUN
1080 OWOLABI ALONWONLE, NURUDEED 

ADEKUNLE

1081 OWOLABI TAWAKALITU,
1082 OWOPETU OLUFEMI,
1083 OWOYEMI OLAWALE,
1084 OWUMI ANTHONY, AGHOGHO
1085 OYAKHILOME MOMODU, KABIR
1086 OYATOGUN NATHANIEL O. O.
1087 OYEBANJI GRACE, ABIMBOLA
1088 OYEDELE ABDULAZEEZ, ADEMOLA 

TAIWO

1089 OYEDELE NURAT, ADENIKE EJIDE
1090 OYELAKIN OMOSHALEWA, SHERIFAT
1091 OYELUDE BABATUNDE., S.
1092 OYENUGA FOLASHADE, MARY
1093 OYEOKA JOY, NJIDEKA
1094 OYEOKA ONYINYE,
1095 OYESOLA FIYINFOLUWA, OYEBISI
1096 OYETIMEIN OLUWAPELUMI, MICHAEL
1097 OYEWOLE ISAIAH, OLUWATOSIN
1098 PASADENA ENERGY CORPORATION 

(FUTUREVIEW) -

1099 PATIENCE TUBOLAIFA, DORGU
1100 PATRICK AKINWUNTAN, MR & MRS
1101 PATRICK CHINELO, FAVOUR
1102 PATRICK UGOCHUKWU, NNAMDI
1103 PAUL AUGUSTINE, IDEYE
1104 PAUL SUNDAY, KINGSLEY
1105 PEARL TRADING & INVESTMENT LTD
1106 PEREIRA THEODORE, SHOBOWALE
1107 PESACH CAPITALS LIMITED
1108 PETER TAIWO, RACHEAL
1109 PETERS ADENIKE, MODUPE
1110 PHILIP IKECHUKWU,
1111
1112
1113 POPOOLA FUNKE, ANIKE
1114 POPOOLA SHERIFAT, BOLA
1115 POUSSE CAPITAL LIMITED
1116 PREYE JERRY, NYENYE
1117
1118 QADIR LATEEF, OLAMILEKAN
1119 QUADRI SULAIMON,
1120 RABIU SULE, ADEYEMO
1121 RAHMAN ADAM, TOLULOPE

PHILLIPS BOLAJI, OLUFUYI
PIUS UGHAKPOTENI, O.

PROF CHRIS EKONG FOUNDATION

S/No Beneficiary
1122 RAIMI RAMONI, ADEMOLA
1123 RAMON ADIJAT, KUBURA
1124 RASAQ OLALEKAN, MUMUNI
1125 RENCAP SECURITIES, NIG LTD-MM 

TRADING

1126 REUBEN VICTORIA, KEHINDE
1127 RIBIAX INVESTEMENT SERVICES 

LIMITED

1128 RIMDAP ABDUL, BIN
1129 ROBBINS LINWOOD, LADELL
1130 ROBSON SAMUEL,
1131 ROSGATE NIGERIA LIMITED
1132 RUFAI ADEMOLA, ELIAS
1133 RUNSEWE OLAOLUWA, OLUWOLE
1134 SAADU FALILAT, BOLANLE
1135 SADA VICTOR, OGHOGHO MR
1136 SAGOE KWEKU-MENSAH, 

OLAKUNLE

1137 SAKA HAKEEM, OLORUNTOYIN
1138 SAKA KOLAWOLE, ADAMS
1139 SAKA NUSIRAT, OMOBOLANLE
1140 SAKARIYAHU SHUAIB, TOYIN
1141 SALABIU WASIU, ROTIMI
1142 SALAMI JUSTIINA, SOBALOJU
1143 SALAMI OLASUNKANMI, TIRIMISIYO
1144 SALAMI RASHEEDAT, ABOSEDE
1145 SALAMI SILIFAT, ADEBOLA
1146 SALAMI SULAIMON, ABIODUN
1147 SALAMI YUSUFU, BISI
1148 SALAMI ZACHAEUS, OTITOJU
1149 SALAU MOHAMMED, ADEBANJO
1150 SALAU NURUDEEN, BABATUNDE
1151 SALAWU OMOLARA, WAKILAT
1152 SALEMSON SHAREHOLDERS ASSO 

OF NIGERIA

1153 SALISU SHUIBU, RAKIYA
1154 SALIU FAUSAT, REMILEKUN
1155 SANGUDI GENEVIEVE
1156 SANNI ABIODUN, CHRISTIANA
1157 SANNI TOYIN, FOLASHADE
1158 SANUSI IBRAHEEM, BUKUNLE
1159 SANUSI ISMAIL, FOLAWIYO
1160 SANUSI ISMAIL, OLASUKANMI
1161 SANYAOLU JONATHAN, AYO
1162 SARKI -, UMAR ALIA FEYISAYO ASAKE
1163 SARUMI TUNDE, KABIR
1164 SAVAGE ADEBUKOLA, ARIKE
1165 SCHLUMBERGER SEP INDEM FUND-

CONS-TRADING

1166 SCOTT GABRIELLA, OYINKA
1167 SHAREMAN LIMITED
1168 SHITTA MORUFAT, ABIOLA
1169 SHITTA-BEY DHIKRULLAHI, OLAWALE
1170 SHITTA-BEY OMOWUNMI,
1171 SHITTU SULAIMON, AYINLA
1172 SHOBANDE COMFORT, OLUSHOLA
1173 SHODEINDE OLUWATOBI, 

EMMANUEL

1174 SHODEKE OMOLARA, DORCAS
1175 SHOFOLAHAN ANTHONIA, 

OLUWATOYIN

1176 SHOFOLAHAN CHARLES, OLUSEGUN

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020S/No Beneficiary
1284 YINKA ADETUBERU, DAVID
1285 YINUSA NOIMOT, OMOLOLA
1286 YINUSA RIDWAN, ADESHINA
1287 YUSSUF ZAINAB, ADESHINA
1288 YUSUF BASHIR, AHMED
1289 YUSUF IBRAHEEM, MUHAMMAD
1290 YUSUF NURUDEEN,
1291 YUSUF RIDWAN, OLALEKAN
1292 YUSUFF FEMI, LATEEF
1293 ZAMBLERA MAURO,
1294 ZARMUNEN ANFISA, GOFWEN
1295 ZARMUNEN ANFISA, GOFWEN
1296 OKONORHO LIZ, OGHENEKEVWE
1297 ZIRA MAURICE,

S/No Beneficiary
1177 SHOFOLAHAN ELIZABETH, 

OLUBUKONLA

S/No Beneficiary
1233 TITUS UCHE,
1234 TRUSTHOUSE INV. LTD.-TRADED-

1178 SHOFOLAHAN FRANCISCA, 

STOCK-A/C

BOLATITO

1179 SHOFOLAHAN SUNDAY, O.
1180 SHOKUNBI KHADIJAT, OLASUMBO
1181 SHOMORIN OLUWAKEMI, SEUN
1182 SHOPEJU EFUNBOSEDE, AYOTUNDE
1183 SHOTUNDE BABATUNDE, SUNDAY
1184 SHYLON OLATUNBOSUN,
1185 SIAML/TY HOLDING LIMITED
1186 SIFFRE DADA, BIOLA
1187 SIMAN LARAI,
1188 SIMPSON ADETUNDE, OPEYEMI
1189 SIMPSON ADETUNDE, OPEYEMI
1190 SMARTT FUTURES RESOURCES LTD -
1191 SMITH BUKOLA,
1192 SOARES AKINOLA, (EVANG)
1193 SOBANDE RAPHAEL, OLUDARE
1194 SOBODU ADESOLA, OLUWAWEMIMO
1195 SOBOWALE SESAN, OLUFUNMILADE
1196 SOFOWORA SHAMSONDEEN, AINA
1197 SOKARE BEULAH, EFEOGHENE 

KARINATE

1198 SONIBARE WAHEED, AKANNI
1199 SORINOLA SAMUEL, OLUDARE
1200 SOSANWO REUBEN, SINA
1201 SOWEMIMO BASIRU, SOLA
1202 SOWEMIMO OLUSOLA, OLABISI
1203 SOYE BRIGGS,
1204 STERLING ASSURANCE NIGERIA 

LIMITED

1205 STERLING REGISTRARS LTD
1206 SULE ABIOLA, SEKINAT
1207 SULE ABIOLA, SEKINAT
1208 SULE ANARUGU, SHEHU
1209 SUNDAY YUSUF, GAJERE
1210 SURAKAT KAZEEM-IDOWU,
TAIRU TAIWO, KAMALIDEEN
1211
TAIWO ADEMOLA, SIMEON
1212
TAIWO ATINUKE, ADUKE
1213
TAJUDEEN KABIR, BANKOLE
1214
TAJUDEEN TAIWO, JAMIU
1215
TAJUDEEN TINUBU, TEMILOLUWA
1216
TATIN TRUE CONCEPTS LIMITED
1217
TAYO MOJISOLA, OLUFUNSO
1218
1219
TEBI CAPITAL INVESTMENT LIMITED
1220 TEDEYE OMAJUWA, J.
1221 THOMAS AKINBAYO, OLAWALE
1222 THOMAS AKINBAYO, OLAWALE
1223 THOMSON ISRAEL,
1224 TIAMIYU MUSTAPHA, OLADELE
1225 TIJANI AJIMOTU, MONYENI
1226 TIJANI OLUWANISOLA, M.
1227 TIJANI SHUKURAT, EBUNDOLA
1228 TIJANI, ADIJATU-KUBURA, 

OLUWATOSIN

1229 TIJANI, QUZEEM, AYOMIDE 
OLUWADUROTIMI

1230 TIJANI, SODIQ, OLUWAGBEMIGA
1231 TIJANI, SUKURAT, EBUDOLA
1232 TIJANI, SULEIMAN, OLUWASEUN

1235 TRW STOCKBROKERS, LTD- T+2 

ACCOUNT NOMINE

1236 TRW STOCKBROKERS, LTD- T+2 

ACCOUNT NOMINE

1237 TRW STOCKBROKERS LTD- T+2 

ACCOUNT NOMINE
1238 TUEDOR FRANCIS,
1239 TWO EDGE PARTNERS GLOBAL 

LIMITED

1240 UBAH IRENE, NNABUOGO
1241 UBAKA CHIAGOZIE, ONYEKACHI
1242 UBOGU FELIX, NKWAONYE & 
OLUFUNMILAYO ITUN
1243 UCHENYI CHIOMA, CHIDUBEM
1244 UCHENYI KESANDU, CHUKWUBUEZE 

E

1245 UCHENYI KESANDU, ONYIMGBA 

MELVYN

1246 UCHENYI UZOAMAKA, UCHECHI
1247 UDOFIA NKO,
1248 UDOFIA WILLIAMS, ETUK
1249 UDOH INEMESIT, BRIAN EZEKIEL
1250 UGBALA CHIGOZIE, CHRISTIAN 

MONDALE

1251 UGBOR ULODIAKU, PETER
1252 UGWUEDE BENEDICT, CHIDEBERE
1253 UKEGBU AZUBUIKE
1254 UKONGA FLORENTINA, ADENIKE
1255 UKPONG CHRISTIANA, LUCKY
1256 UKPONG UKPONG, S.
1257 UMAR FARUK, (DR.)
1258 UMEH IFY,
1259 UMEOKORO IFEANYICHUKWU, JUDE
1260 UMEZE NZE, INNOCENT
1261 UMOH OTOBONG, ISAIAH
1262 UMUKORO EMMANUEL, FRANKLIN
1263 USIAPHRE PATRICK,
1264 USIAPHRE PATRICK, ONOME
1265 USMAN HAMMED, OLUWASHOLA
1266 VETIVA NOMINEES A/C OGE PETERS
1267 VETIVA TRUSTEES LIMITED-CLIENTS 

CSCS

1268 VICTOR &, BRIDGET DANIA
1269 VICTOR EFFIOM, OROK
1270 VINCENT CHRISTIE, 
OTUOSOROCHUKWU

1271 VINSTAR CONSULTING
1272 VISTA INVESTMENT PROPERTY 

LIMITED -

1273 WASIU ADEWALE, AZEEZ
1274 WASIU ADEWALE, AZEEZ
1275 WEWE MARY, IMADE
1276 WILLIAMS ESTHER, FOLASHADE
1277 WILLIAMS GRACE, NWAKEGO
1278 WILLIAMS OLUWASEYI,
1279 WILLIAMS RUTH, OLAMIDE
1280 WILLIAMS SERAH, QUEEN
1281 WOODCOTE LIMITED
1282 WOODGREEN GLOBAL RESOURCES 

LIMITED

1283 YARROW ALIMOT, SHADIAT

305

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020General information

Board of Directors
Ambrosie Bryant  
Chukwueloka Orjiako

Chairman

Roger Thompson Brown

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Emeka Onwuka

Effiong Okon

Chief Financial Officer (Executive Director)

Operations Director (Executive Director)

Ojunekwu Augustine Avuru

Non-Executive Director

Madame Nathalie Delapalme

Non-Executive Director

Olivier Cleret De Langavant

Non-Executive Director

Basil Omiyi

Senior Independent Non-Executive Director

Xavier R. Rolet, KBE

Independent Non-Executive Director

Arunma Oteh, OON

Independent Non-Executive Director

Charles Okeahalam

Independent Non-Executive Director

Lord Mark Malloch-Brown

Independent Non-Executive Director

Damian Dinshiya Dodo, SAN

Independent Non-Executive Director

Nigerian

British

Nigerian 

Nigerian

Nigerian

French

French

Nigerian 

French

Nigerian 

Nigerian

British

Nigerian 

Company Secretary
Edith Onwuchekwa

Solicitors
Olaniwun Ajayi LP

Registered office and +.business address of Directors 
16a Temple Road (Olu Holloway),
Ikoyi  
Lagos  
Nigeria

Registered number 
RC No. 824838

FRC number
FRC/2013/NBA/00000003660

Auditor
PriceWaterhouseCoopers  
Landmark Towers 
5b Water Corporation Road  
Victoria Island  
Lagos  
PWC

Registrar
DataMax Registrars Limited  
2c Gbagada Expressway  
Gbagada Phase 1  
Lagos  
Nigeria

306

Adepetun Caxton-Martins Agbor & Segun (“ACAS-Law”)

White & Case LLP

Whitehall Solicitors

Chief J.A. Ororho & Co.

Ogaga Ovrawah & Co.

Consolex LP

Mike Igbokwe & Co.

V.E. Akpoguma & Co.

Thompson Okpoko & Partners

G.C. Arubayi & Co.

Streamsowers & Kohn

Tonbofa Law Practice

Chris E Anokam & Co

Adebiyi Tax & Legal

Tsedaqah Attorneys

J.E. Okodaso & Company 

Bankers
First Bank of Nigeria Limited

Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc

United Bank for Africa Plc

Zenith Bank Plc

Citibank Nigeria Limited

Standard Chartered Bank

HSBC Bank

FirstRand Bank Limited Acting

Natixis

Nedbank Limited

Nomura International Plc

The Standard Bank of South Africa

The Mauritius Commercial Bank

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Glossary of terms 

AEPS 
Amukpe Escravos Pipeline System

AG 
Associated Gas

AGPC  
ANOH Gas Processing Company

ALR 
Amended Listing Rules

ANOH 
Assa North Ohaji South

BTU 
British Thermal Unit

CAMA 
Companies and Allied Matters Act

CBI 
Convention on Business Integrity

CBN 
Central Bank of Nigeria

CGRS 
Corporate Governance Rating System

DD&A 
Depreciation, Depletion & Amortization

DSO 
Domestic Supply Obligation

E&A 
Exploration and Appraisal

EBIT 
Earnings Before Interest Tax

EPF 
Early Production Facility

EPS 
Earnings Per Share

ERGP 
Economic Recovery & Growth Plan

ERM 
Enterprise Risk Management

ESIA 
Environmental Social Impact Assessment

FID 
Final Investment Decision

FTSE 
Financial Times Stock Exchange Index

GDP 
Gross Domestic Product

GGFR 
Global Gas Flaring Reduction

GHDI 
Global Human Development Initiative

GMOU 
Global Memorandum of Understanding

GMP 
Gas Master Plan

GSA 
Gas Supply Agreement

GTL 
Gas To Liquids

GW 
Giga Watt

IEFX 
Investors, Exporters Foreign Exchange 
window

IOC 
International Oil Company

IOGP 
International Association of Oil  
& Gas Producers

IPP 
Independent Power Plants

ISO 
International Standards Organisation

KPI 
Key Performance Indicator

KWH 
KiloWatt Hour

LNG 
Liquefied Natural Gas

LPS 
Loss Per Share

LTF 
Liquid Treatment Facility

LTIF 
Lost Time Incident Frequency

LTIP 
Long Term Incentive Plan

MCP 
Multiple Currency Practices

MOPU 
Mobile Offshore Production Unit

NAPIMS 
National Petroleum Investment 
Management Service

NBS 
National Bureau of Statistics

NED 
Non Executive Director

NGC 
Nigerian Gas Company

NGMC 
Nigerian Gas Marketing Company

NGMP 
Nigeria Gas Master Plan

NGO 
Non Governmental Organisation

NGPTC 
Nigerian Gas Processing and Transportation 
Company

NIIMP 
Nigerian Integrated Infrastructure Master 
Plan

NNPC 
Nigerian National Petroleum Company

NOGICD 
Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Content 
Development

NPC 
National Population Commission

NPDC 
Nigerian Petroleum Development Company

O&G 
Oil & Gas

OB3 
Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben gas pipeline

OPEC 
Organisation of Petroleum 
Exporting Countries

PIB 
Petroleum Industry Bill

PIFB 
Petroleum Industry Fiscal Bill

PIGB 
Petroleum Industry Governance Bill

PPP 
Public Private Partnership

PSC 
Production Sharing Contracts

RCF 
Revolving Credit Facility

SDG 
Sustainable Development Goals

SEC 
Securities Exchange Commission

SID 
Senior Independent Director

SPDC 
Shell Petroleum Development Company

TRIR 
Total Recordable Incident Rate

TSR 
Total Shareholder Return

WEF 
World Economic Forum

WRPC 
Warri Refinery Petrochemical Company

307

Strategic Report   01—77Governance Report   78—144Financial Statements   145—308Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Notes

308

Seplat Petroleum Development Company PlcAnnual Report and Accounts 2020Forward-looking statements
This document may include statements that are, or may be deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements 
involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control and all of which are based on the 
Company’s current beliefs and expectations about future events. These forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of forward-
looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “estimates”, “plans”, “projects”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “intends”, “may”, “will” or “should” 
or, in each case, their negative or other variations or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy, plans, objectives, goals, future 
events or intentions. These forward-looking statements include all matters that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements may  
and often do differ materially from actual results. Any forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current view with respect to future 
events and are subject to risks relating to future events and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to the Company’s business, 
results of operations, financial position, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the oil and gas business. Forward-looking statements 
speak only as of the date they are made and cannot be relied upon as a guide to future performance.

Designed and produced by SampsonMay 
Telephone: 020 7403 4099 www.sampsonmay.com

Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc 

Head Office
16a Temple Road, 
Ikoyi,  
Lagos,  
Nigeria  

London Office
Fourth Floor, 
50 Pall Mall, 
London SW1Y 5JH 
United Kingdom 

www.seplatpetroleum.com