Two business leaders of a leading international energy and infrastructure conglomerate, Sahara Group, have been named in the 20 Under 40 Energy Women Rising Stars list of African Energy Chamber (AEC) for 2025.
They were included for their outstanding contributions to Africa’s energy sector, reinforcing the organisation’s role in shaping the next generation of global energy leadership.
The two employees of the energy firm listed were the Head of Integrated Gas Ventures at Asharami Energy, Ms Mariah Lucciano-Gabriel; and the Chief Financial Officer of Egbin Power Plc, Ms Yetunde Sorinola.
Their recognition reflects a wider global shift as the energy industry navigates the twin imperatives of expanding access to power and advancing a just energy transition.
The 20 Under 40 list shines an international spotlight on women who are redefining Africa’s oil, gas, and renewable industries, at a time when the continent’s leadership in innovation and resilience is increasingly shaping global conversations.
An Executive Director at Sahara Group, Ms Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, described the recognition as evidence of Sahara’s long-standing commitment to empowering leaders who drive impact across Africa and beyond.
“Mariah and Yetunde embody the Sahara spirit of resilience, innovation, and excellence.
“Their achievements demonstrate our commitment to Making A Difference by nurturing talent that can thrive on the global stage while bringing energy to life responsibly for communities across the continent and the globe,” she said.
Also, the Head of Corporate Communications at Sahara Group, Mr Bethel Obioma, said the recognition reflects Sahara’s people-focused strategy across the energy value chain.
“At Sahara, our people strategy is centered on growing expertise and giving our employees platforms to express their abilities maximally, both within and outside the workplace.
“Our core values of being disruptively creative and ambidextrous empower every member of our team to harness their potential, drive innovation, and deliver impact that transcends borders,” Mr Obioma noted.
As Head of Integrated Gas Ventures, Ms Lucciano-Gabriel has been a driving force behind Sahara’s midstream gas business, accelerating revenue growth and expanding access to cleaner energy.
She said, “Being named among such a dynamic cohort of women is a powerful reminder that Africa has the talent and vision to lead global energy conversations.”
“This recognition inspires me to keep pushing boundaries, driving innovative gas solutions that can fuel inclusive growth.”
On her part, Ms Sorinola leads the finance operations of Egbin Power, Africa’s largest privately-owned thermal power plant. She has built a reputation for strong governance, compliance, and financial stewardship of capital-intensive projects.