LEKOIL (AIM: LEK), the oil and gas exploration and production company with a focus on Nigeria and West Africa, has said that following the resignation of Mark Simmonds, the Board has appointed Mr. Michael Ajukwu as Chairman of the company with immediate effect.

Mr. Simmonds before his appointment as chairman of Lekoil has served in various capacities as Britain’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office Minister with responsibilities for Africa, the Caribbean, UK Overseas Territories, International Energy and Conflict Prevention. He served as a Member of the UK Parliament for fourteen (14) years and was also a senior advisor to the then Prime Minister, David Cameron.

“I am honoured to assume the position of Chairman of LEKOIL and would like to thank my predecessor, Mark Simmonds, for his contributions to the Company. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Board and the management of LEKOIL to deliver a high performing company anchored on strong,” Michael Ajukwu commented.