Akpani bows out as DAPPMAN elects new Governing Council members
The Dame Winifred Akpani-led executive of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has officially handed over as new governing council members were elected last week.
In her valedictory speech, Akpani expressed deep appreciation to members and the former executive for their collective efforts in advancing DAPPMAN to its current position of influence. She reflected on the journey of the association, stating, “We were determined to have an association that can make a lot of difference, and gradually, we did. We preached integrity, and our members adhered to it strictly. Despite being a woman, I led the association without facing any form of gender discrimination throughout my tenure, and this was only possible because of the kind of members we have.”
Akpani also thanked the members for their understanding and support during her leadership and urged them to extend similar support to the newly elected executives. She commended all the candidates who contested in the elections, encouraging them to view the process as an act of service, while advising the winners to be magnanimous in victory.
“I want to especially appreciate the contestants, particularly those who might not have their dreams of leading the association fulfilled at this time. We all cannot emerge leaders altogether, but you can always bounce back bigger and better,” she added.
The newly elected executive members are: Mrs. Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka (Chairman, Sahara Energy Group), Mr. Chris Odinaka Igwe (Vice Chairman 1, Mainland Oil & Gas Co. Ltd.), Mr. Ibrahim Ali (Vice Chairman 2, Shafa Energies), Otunba Barrister Bolaniran Adeyeye (Secretary, Optima Energy), Barrister (Mrs) Patience Dappa (Assistant Secretary, Masters Energy Group), Barrister (Mrs) Ngozi Ekeoma (Financial Secretary, Nepal Oil and Gas Service), and Lady Ada Chukwudozie (Treasurer, Dozzy Oil and Gas Limited).
DAPPMAN members, who turned out in large numbers to participate in the elections, expressed their gratitude to the outgoing executives for their leadership in shaping the sustainable transformation of the downstream oil and gas industry. They also recognised the association’s role in supporting members and promoting an enabling business environment for all stakeholders.
Mrs. Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, in her acceptance speech, praised the transparency of the electoral process, describing it as organised and devoid of rancour. She also thanked the outgoing executive, particularly for setting a strong leadership example.
“Kudos goes to the immediate past executive council for setting the pace for leadership in this noble association. The election process was very well organised, and regardless of the outcome, we expect members to abide and continue striving for a better DAPPMAN,” she said.
Hajiyya Amina Maina, the immediate past first vice-chairman, reflected on the achievements of the outgoing executive, particularly in rebranding and restructuring the association. She also commended the transparency of the election process, noting that global professional services network KPMG was appointed to oversee the election, ensuring its fairness and credibility.
In her acceptance speech, Adedoyin-Adeyinka also thanked members for their maturity throughout the election process and expressed her determination to continue the work of her predecessor.
“This election shows how committed we are to the progress and greatness of this association. We all fought for our various offices to make a difference and take DAPPMAN to the next level. I want to thank the former chairman for her leadership over the past years,” she said.
The new leadership, having taken the reins, expressed their commitment to building on the solid foundation laid by the outgoing executive and working towards the association’s future success.