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Leadership

AYODELE ADEBIYI

Chief Executive

Ayo has over 20 years experience principally in the petroleum industry, providing engineering and control capacities.  Ayo has held management roles at Shell, and also managed technical responsibilities including – equipment, materials, procurement processes, transportation, installation processes and incorporation of HSSE management into worksites and procedures. Ayo was a Senior Facility Engineer at Shell Forcados Export Terminal – overseeing crude loading platforms and mooring units. Ayo started his career at Shell developing upstream and marine integration assignments.

Ayo graduated top of his class with a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana and completed the Robert Gordon University Scotland – Shell Intensive Training Program.

Contact Us

Lagos Office
AB Whitney & Co Ltd
1st Floor Itiku House
28 – 30 McCarthy Street
Off King George V Road Lagos
+234 (0) 908 273 9939


London Correspondence Office
AB Whitney & Co (UK) Limited
50 Grosvenor Hill
London W1K 3QT
+44 (0) 208 144 1020


contact@abwhitney.co

CYRIL AJAYI

Executive Director

Cyril holds a Class 1 (Chief Engineer Unlimited) competency in Marine Engineering endorsement, with over 22 years experience in roles as 4th Engineer, 3rd Engineer, Cargo Engineer, Ship Engineer Officer, Chief Engineer, Ship Manager, Head Technical and Operations and Senior Technical Superintendent QHSE Representative. Cyril worked for ship management companies and ship owners including Anglo Eastern Ship Management (UK), Arina Offshore (Dubai), Prime Gulf (UK), Tier One Maritime (Dubai), Japaul Shipping (Nigeria) and Megar Engineering (South Africa). Cyril has extensive skills and experience in safety and quality assurance, which includes dynamic positioning, liquid cargo operations, vibration, high voltage, marine accident as well as electrical power generation and distribution.

Cyril graduated with a degree in Information Technology and Computing and holds BTEC and BTEC NVQ in Marine Engineering and Level 3 Merchant Vessel Engineering respectively.

Technical Advisory Team

Engr. Anthony Ikemefuna

Lead Process Engineer / Chemical Engineer

Engr. Anthony Ikemefuna is a Chartered Chemical Engineer with over 25 years of professional experience in offshore process design, LNG systems, and flow assurance. He has successfully delivered major projects for Chevron, Shell, BP, and NLNG, specializing in process optimization, gas processing, and facility debottlenecking. Anthony is known for his technical depth, leadership, and commitment to safety and engineering excellence.

Key Highlights:

  • Expertise in process design, flow assurance, and LNG production systems.
  • Skilled in process simulation, heat exchanger design, and optimization.
  • Proven track record in EPC project design, commissioning, and operations support.
  • Strong leadership and mentoring experience in multidisciplinary environments.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. (Hons) in Chemical Engineering – Enugu State University of Science & Technology, Nigeria (1994)
  • M.Sc. Module in Energy Optimisation & Heat Exchanger Design – Cranfield University, UK (2006)

Engr. Adesiyun Sijuwade Samuel

Project Engineer / Mechanical Engineer

Engr. Adesiyun Sijuwade Samuel is a Mechanical Engineer with over 12 years of experience in the design, construction, and commissioning of oil and gas facilities. Adesiyun has worked on FPSO and onshore projects for NLNG, Shell, and TotalEnergies, ensuring operational reliability and technical compliance. Samuel combines practical engineering expertise with strong project coordination and safety management skills.

Key Highlights:

  • Experienced in mechanical systems design, installation, and maintenance.
  • Skilled in project coordination, fabrication supervision, and commissioning.
  • Knowledgeable in piping systems, rotating equipment, and pressure vessels.
  • Strong focus on HSE compliance and quality assurance.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering (Second Class Upper Division) – University of Ilorin, Nigeria (2009)

Engr. Murali Rao

Senior Project Manager / Mechanical Engineer

Engr. Murali Rao is a seasoned Project Manager and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience in oil, gas, and petrochemical projects. Murali has led major EPC and EPCM projects across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa for clients such as Aramco, Chevron, and ExxonMobil. His expertise spans design management, construction oversight, and cost optimization, with a proven ability to deliver projects safely and efficiently.

Key Highlights:

  • Extensive experience in EPC project management and multidisciplinary leadership.
  • Proficient in project planning, scheduling, and cost control.
  • Strong background in refinery and process plant operations.
  • Skilled in client relations, resource management, and risk assessment.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – India
  • Master of Financial Management – India

Engr. Mallikarjuna Maganalli

Chief Engineer, Piping & Layout Design

Engr. Mallikarjuna Maganalli is a Piping and Layout Design Engineer with more than 30 years of international experience in oil, gas, and petrochemical projects. He has worked with Tecnimont, Essar, and Jacobs Engineering, providing expert leadership in piping layout, 3D modeling, and interdisciplinary coordination. His focus on design efficiency and safety has been instrumental in numerous successful EPC projects.

Key Highlights:

  • Expertise in piping design, plant layout, and equipment integration.
  • Skilled in 3D modeling and design review using PDMS and AutoCAD.
  • Proven leadership in interdisciplinary design and engineering coordination.
  • Strong knowledge of ASME, API, and ISO codes and standards.

Academic Qualification:

  • M.Tech. in Design – Bapuji Institute of Engineering & Technology, Visvesvaraya Technological University (2006)
  • B.E. in Mechanical Engineering – University of Mysore (1986)

Ms. Lalita Maru

Senior Process Engineer / Chemical Engineer

Ms. Lalita Maru is a Process Engineer with over 19 years of experience in process design and FEED development for oil, gas, and refinery projects. Lalita is highly proficient in process simulation and optimization tools, including Aspen HYSYS and HTRI. Lalita has contributed to multiple EPCM projects for international firms, ensuring efficient, reliable, and safety-compliant design solutions.

Key Highlights:

  • Skilled in process simulation, relief valve sizing, and hydraulic calculations.
  • Experienced in FEED and detailed engineering for refinery and gas plants.
  • Active participant in HAZOP, SIL, and process safety reviews.
  • Proficient in Aspen HYSYS, Flarenet, and related design software.

Academic Qualification:

  • Diploma in Chemical Engineering (First Class) – India (1997–2001)

Engr. Mofat Abasifreke

Project Engineer / Piping Design & Construction Lead

Engr. Mofat Abasifreke is a Piping Design and Construction Engineer with over 12 years of experience in onshore and offshore oil and gas projects. Mofat has delivered successful projects for NNPC, Tecnimont, and Heritage Energy, with expertise in fabrication, hydrotesting, and pre-commissioning. Mofat’s practical experience and strong engineering background make him a valuable leader in multidisciplinary construction teams.

Key Highlights:

  • Specialized in piping design, structural fabrication, and site supervision.
  • Skilled in hydrotesting, pre-commissioning, and project documentation.
  • Proficient in AutoCAD, PDMS, and Microsoft Project.
  • Strong commitment to HSE and quality assurance.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Sc. in Computer Science – University of Uyo, Nigeria (2011)
  • Diploma in Process Piping Design (ASME B31.3) – Institute of Piping & Engineering, Hyderabad, India (2013)

Engr. Kenneth Itaman

Senior Project Manager / Mechanical Engineer

Engr. Kenneth Itaman is a Mechanical Engineer and Project Manager with over 20 years of experience leading EPC projects in the oil and gas industry. Kenneth has worked with Chevron, Shell, NLNG, and NPDC, managing multidisciplinary teams across design, procurement, and construction phases. Kenneth is recognized for his ability to deliver technically sound and cost-efficient solutions under demanding operational conditions.

Key Highlights:

  • Expertise in project planning, cost and schedule control, and QA/QC management.
  • Strong leadership in design, procurement, and construction execution.
  • Skilled in stakeholder engagement and regulatory compliance.
  • Proven success in refinery maintenance and plant upgrades.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria (1999)
  • M.Eng. (Engineering Management) – Rivers State University, Port Harcourt (in view)

Engr. Samuel S. Phan

Lead Structural Engineer

Engr. Samuel S. Phan is a COREN-certified Structural Engineer with over 15 years of experience in offshore and onshore facility design. Samuel has led major structural projects for TotalEnergies, Saipem, and Kohasa Engineering. His work focuses on delivering innovative, cost-effective, and code-compliant designs, using advanced tools such as SACS, STAADPro, and ANSYS.

Key Highlights:

  • Specialized in offshore and onshore structural design and analysis.
  • Proficient in SACS, STAADPro, ANSYS, and TEKLA.
  • Experienced in FEED, detailed design, and installation analysis.
  • Strong knowledge of API, DNV, Eurocodes, and AISC standards.

Academic Qualification:

  • M.Sc. in Offshore Engineering (Structures) – University of Newcastle, UK (2009)
  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Nigeria (2005)

Engr. Lemene Bryan Deele

E&I QA/QC Inspector / Electrical Engineer

Engr. Lemene Bryan Deele is an Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer with over 15 years of experience in design, QA/QC inspection, and commissioning of electrical systems in oil and gas projects. Lemene has worked with TotalEnergies, NESSCO, Bureau Veritas, and the Port Harcourt Refinery Rehabilitation Project. Lemene is a COREN-registered professional known for his precision, quality focus, and leadership in safety and technical compliance.

Key Highlights:

  • Expertise in electrical design, QA/QC inspection, and commissioning of HV/LV systems.
  • Skilled in AutoCAD, MATLAB, ETAP, and MS Project.
  • Strong background in refinery rehabilitation and cabling systems integration.
  • Certified in Project Management, Solar Energy, and Leadership (ILM, UK).

Academic Qualification:

  • M.Eng. in Electrical Power Engineering – University of Uyo (2019)
  • B.Eng. in Electrical/Electronic Engineering – University of Port Harcourt (2015)
  • HND in Electrical/Electronic Engineering – Rivers State Polytechnic, Bori (2007)

Engr. Prince E. Oghoma

API / Quality Control Inspector (Mechanical & Piping)

Engr. Prince Oghoma is a certified API 510 Pressure Vessel and AWS Welding Inspector with over 14 years of expertise in mechanical, piping, and quality inspection across major oil and gas EPC projects. His experience covers work with Sterling Oil, Bos Energy, Tecnimont (PHRC), Aveon Offshore, and Chevron, ensuring compliance with international codes and promoting operational integrity and safety.

Key Highlights:

  • Certified API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector and AWS Certified Welding Inspector.
  • Skilled in Risk-Based Inspection (RBI), corrosion monitoring, and mechanical integrity management.
  • Proficient in ASME, API, and AWS standards (B31.3, 510, 570, 650, 580, 581).
  • Extensive experience in NDT (UT, RT, MPI, PT) and QA/QC documentation.
  • Trained in ISO 9001:2008 auditing, radiation safety, and Lean Six Sigma methodologies.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State (2007)

JOHN KISALUS

Independent Director (American)

John Kisalus served as the Chief Executive and a Member of Management Board of OTI Greentech AG, a company listed on the Dusseldorf Stock Exchange and headquartered in Berlin, providing products and services to the maritime, infrastructure, and oil and gas industries worldwide. John was the founder of Kisalus Energy LCC, a petroleum company in Victoria Texas US. John had been with Tej as Research and Engineering, providing innovative products, testing and engineering consulting. Before that John worked at NALCO / Exxon Energy Chemicals, Sales, Marketing and Corporate Management in the petroleum refinery process and petrochemicals from 1985 to 2007.

John holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry from Duke University, Durham, North Carolina USA.

ALEXANDER LANGHAM

Independent Director (British)

Alexander is a partner at Argo Saint George Financial Advisors LLP and has over 15 years of experience in finance. He started his career in Ernst & Young Consulting’s Investment Banking Team. Alexander joined the hedge fund industry, working for Trafalgar Assets Managers and Cyrus Capital Partners as a Prop Trader focusing on distressed debt trading in both London and New York. Alexander was later the Head of European Credit Trading for Storm-Harbour Securities, an independent global market and financial advisory firm. Alex was also a partner at Sunrise Brokers.

Alexander holds a BA in Business and Modern Languages, University of Oxford UK.

ABOLAJI FEMI-ISHOLA

Vice Chairman

Abolaji is a transactions’ matter expert in international hydrocarbon, energy and shipping structuring and financing. Abolaji currently serves as the Chief Executive at Tranergy & Co., a contemporary merchant company focused on investment banking and advisory, commodities and brokerage, and macro research services. Prior to Tranergy & Co., Abolaji was a Vice President (Energy) at Avante Capital (a specialised investment banking services company) and prior to Avante Capital, he was with HBoS Banking Group UK working in credit risk for financial and commodity hedging transactions. Abolaji worked in various economic and complex analytical roles with Citigroup UK and offshore investment financing roles with the Bank of New York Mellon. Abolaji was a senior transaction adviser on the US$1.65 billion Oando Energy Resources acquisition of Conoco Philips Nigeria and was the lead adviser on the US$170 million Mainstream Energy acquisition of Kainji Power Plc.

Abolaji holds a Masters degree in Shipping, Trade and Finance from Cass Business School, City of London UK; and a Masters degree in Oil and Gas Economics from the University of Dundee, Scotland UK.

AYODELE ADEBIYI

Chief Executive

Ayo has over 20 years experience principally in the petroleum industry, providing engineering and control capacities.  Ayo has held management roles at Shell, and also managed technical responsibilities including – equipment, materials, procurement processes, transportation, installation processes and incorporation of HSSE management into worksites and procedures. Ayo was a Senior Facility Engineer at Shell Forcados Export Terminal – overseeing crude loading platforms and mooring units. Ayo started his career at Shell  developing upstream and marine integration assignments.

Ayo graduated top of his class with a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana and completed the Robert Gordon University Scotland – Shell Intensive Training Program.

CYRIL AJAYI

Executive Director

Cyril holds a Class 1 (Chief Engineer Unlimited) competency in Marine Engineering endorsement, with over 22 years experience in roles as 4th Engineer, 3rd Engineer, Cargo Engineer, Ship Engineer Officer, Chief Engineer, Ship Manager, Head Technical and Operations and Senior Technical Superintendent QHSE Representative. Cyril worked for ship management companies and ship owners including Anglo Eastern Ship Management (UK), Arina Offshore (Dubai), Prime Gulf (UK), Tier One Maritime (Dubai), Japaul Shipping (Nigeria) and Megar Engineering (South Africa). Cyril has extensive skills and experience in safety and quality assurance, which includes dynamic positioning, liquid cargo operations, vibration, high voltage, marine accident as well as electrical power generation and distribution.

Cyril graduated with a degree in Information Technology and Computing and holds BTEC and BTEC NVQ in Marine Engineering and Level 3 Merchant Vessel Engineering respectively.

Technical Advisory Team

ABOLAJI FEMI-ISHOLA

Vice Chairman

Abolaji is a transaction and subject matter expert in international hydrocarbon, energy and shipping structuring and financing. Abolaji currently serves as the Chief Executive at Tranergy & Co., a contemporary merchant company focused on investment banking and advisory, commodities and brokerage, and macro research services. Prior to Tranergy & Co., Abolaji was a Vice President (Energy) at Avante Capital (a specialised investment banking services company) and prior to Avante Capital, he was with HBoS Banking Group UK working in credit risk for financial and commodity hedging transactions. Abolaji worked in various economic and complex analytical roles with Citigroup UK and offshore investment financing roles with the Bank of New York Mellon. Abolaji was a senior transaction adviser on the US$1.65 billion Oando Energy Resources acquisition of Conoco Philips Nigeria and was the lead adviser on the US$170 million Mainstream Energy acquisition of Kainji Power Plc.

Abolaji holds a Masters degree in Shipping, Trade and Finance from Cass Business School, City of London UK; and a Masters degree in Oil and Gas Economics from the University of Dundee, Scotland UK.

Engr. Anthony Ikemefuna

Lead Process Engineer / Chemical Engineer

Engr. Anthony Ikemefuna is a Chartered Chemical Engineer with over 25 years of professional experience in offshore process design, LNG systems, and flow assurance. He has successfully delivered major projects for Chevron, Shell, BP, and NLNG, specializing in process optimization, gas processing, and facility debottlenecking. Anthony is known for his technical depth, leadership, and commitment to safety and engineering excellence.

Key Highlights:

  • Expertise in process design, flow assurance, and LNG production systems.
  • Skilled in process simulation, heat exchanger design, and optimization.
  • Proven track record in EPC project design, commissioning, and operations support.
  • Strong leadership and mentoring experience in multidisciplinary environments.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. (Hons) in Chemical Engineering – Enugu State University of Science & Technology, Nigeria (1994)
  • M.Sc. Module in Energy Optimisation & Heat Exchanger Design – Cranfield University, UK (2006)

Engr. Adesiyun Sijuwade Samuel

Project Engineer / Mechanical Engineer

Engr. Adesiyun Sijuwade Samuel is a Mechanical Engineer with over 12 years of experience in the design, construction, and commissioning of oil and gas facilities. Adesiyun has worked on FPSO and onshore projects for NLNG, Shell, and TotalEnergies, ensuring operational reliability and technical compliance. Samuel combines practical engineering expertise with strong project coordination and safety management skills.

Key Highlights:

  • Experienced in mechanical systems design, installation, and maintenance.
  • Skilled in project coordination, fabrication supervision, and commissioning.
  • Knowledgeable in piping systems, rotating equipment, and pressure vessels.
  • Strong focus on HSE compliance and quality assurance.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering (Second Class Upper Division) – University of Ilorin, Nigeria (2009)

Engr. Murali Rao

Senior Project Manager / Mechanical Engineer

Engr. Murali Rao is a seasoned Project Manager and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience in oil, gas, and petrochemical projects. Murali has led major EPC and EPCM projects across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa for clients such as Aramco, Chevron, and ExxonMobil. His expertise spans design management, construction oversight, and cost optimization, with a proven ability to deliver projects safely and efficiently.

Key Highlights:

  • Extensive experience in EPC project management and multidisciplinary leadership.
  • Proficient in project planning, scheduling, and cost control.
  • Strong background in refinery and process plant operations.
  • Skilled in client relations, resource management, and risk assessment.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – India
  • Master of Financial Management – India

Engr. Mallikarjuna Maganalli

Chief Engineer, Piping & Layout Design

Engr. Mallikarjuna Maganalli is a Piping and Layout Design Engineer with more than 30 years of international experience in oil, gas, and petrochemical projects. He has worked with Tecnimont, Essar, and Jacobs Engineering, providing expert leadership in piping layout, 3D modeling, and interdisciplinary coordination. His focus on design efficiency and safety has been instrumental in numerous successful EPC projects.

Key Highlights:

  • Expertise in piping design, plant layout, and equipment integration.
  • Skilled in 3D modeling and design review using PDMS and AutoCAD.
  • Proven leadership in interdisciplinary design and engineering coordination.
  • Strong knowledge of ASME, API, and ISO codes and standards.

Academic Qualification:

  • M.Tech. in Design – Bapuji Institute of Engineering & Technology, Visvesvaraya Technological University (2006)
  • B.E. in Mechanical Engineering – University of Mysore (1986)

Ms. Lalita Maru

Senior Process Engineer / Chemical Engineer

Ms. Lalita Maru is a Process Engineer with over 19 years of experience in process design and FEED development for oil, gas, and refinery projects. Lalita is highly proficient in process simulation and optimization tools, including Aspen HYSYS and HTRI. Lalita has contributed to multiple EPCM projects for international firms, ensuring efficient, reliable, and safety-compliant design solutions.

Key Highlights:

  • Skilled in process simulation, relief valve sizing, and hydraulic calculations.
  • Experienced in FEED and detailed engineering for refinery and gas plants.
  • Active participant in HAZOP, SIL, and process safety reviews.
  • Proficient in Aspen HYSYS, Flarenet, and related design software.

Academic Qualification:

  • Diploma in Chemical Engineering (First Class) – India (1997–2001)

Engr. Mofat Abasifreke

Project Engineer / Piping Design & Construction Lead

Engr. Mofat Abasifreke is a Piping Design and Construction Engineer with over 12 years of experience in onshore and offshore oil and gas projects. Mofat has delivered successful projects for NNPC, Tecnimont, and Heritage Energy, with expertise in fabrication, hydrotesting, and pre-commissioning. Mofat’s practical experience and strong engineering background make him a valuable leader in multidisciplinary construction teams.

Key Highlights:

  • Specialized in piping design, structural fabrication, and site supervision.
  • Skilled in hydrotesting, pre-commissioning, and project documentation.
  • Proficient in AutoCAD, PDMS, and Microsoft Project.
  • Strong commitment to HSE and quality assurance.

Engr. Kenneth Itaman

Senior Project Manager / Mechanical Engineer

Engr. Kenneth Itaman is a Mechanical Engineer and Project Manager with over 20 years of experience leading EPC projects in the oil and gas industry. Kenneth has worked with Chevron, Shell, NLNG, and NPDC, managing multidisciplinary teams across design, procurement, and construction phases. Kenneth is recognized for his ability to deliver technically sound and cost-efficient solutions under demanding operational conditions.

Key Highlights:

  • Expertise in project planning, cost and schedule control, and QA/QC management.
  • Strong leadership in design, procurement, and construction execution.
  • Skilled in stakeholder engagement and regulatory compliance.
  • Proven success in refinery maintenance and plant upgrades.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Nigeria (1999)
  • M.Eng. (Engineering Management) – Rivers State University, Port Harcourt (in view)

Engr. Samuel S. Phan

Lead Structural Engineer

Engr. Samuel S. Phan is a COREN-certified Structural Engineer with over 15 years of experience in offshore and onshore facility design. Samuel has led major structural projects for TotalEnergies, Saipem, and Kohasa Engineering. His work focuses on delivering innovative, cost-effective, and code-compliant designs, using advanced tools such as SACS, STAADPro, and ANSYS.

Key Highlights:

  • Specialized in offshore and onshore structural design and analysis.
  • Proficient in SACS, STAADPro, ANSYS, and TEKLA.
  • Experienced in FEED, detailed design, and installation analysis.
  • Strong knowledge of API, DNV, Eurocodes, and AISC standards.

Academic Qualification:

  • M.Sc. in Offshore Engineering (Structures) – University of Newcastle, UK (2009)
  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Nigeria (2005)

Engr. Prince E. Oghoma

API / Quality Control Inspector (Mechanical & Piping)

Engr. Prince Oghoma is a certified API 510 Pressure Vessel and AWS Welding Inspector with over 14 years of expertise in mechanical, piping, and quality inspection across major oil and gas EPC projects. His experience covers work with Sterling Oil, Bos Energy, Tecnimont (PHRC), Aveon Offshore, and Chevron, ensuring compliance with international codes and promoting operational integrity and safety.

Key Highlights:

  • Certified API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspector and AWS Certified Welding Inspector.
  • Skilled in Risk-Based Inspection (RBI), corrosion monitoring, and mechanical integrity management.
  • Proficient in ASME, API, and AWS standards (B31.3, 510, 570, 650, 580, 581).
  • Extensive experience in NDT (UT, RT, MPI, PT) and QA/QC documentation.
  • Trained in ISO 9001:2008 auditing, radiation safety, and Lean Six Sigma methodologies.

Academic Qualification:

  • B.Eng. in Mechanical Engineering – Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State (2007)

AB Whitney & Co. is a provider of Engineering, Procurement, Marine and Shore Support Services

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