Heirs Energies Wins Global Award for $750 Million Financing Deal

The award was presented in London on 3 June 2026 and celebrates one of the largest financing transactions ever secured by an indigenous African energy company.

Landmark Funding Recognised at International Finance Awards

Heirs Energies Limited has earned international recognition after its US$750 million dual-tranche Senior Secured Reserve-Based Lending (RBL) facility was named Best Oil & Gas Deal of the Year at the EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards 2026. The award was presented in London on 3 June 2026 and celebrates one of the largest financing transactions ever secured by an indigenous African energy company. The recognition highlights the increasing role of African financial institutions and businesses in funding major energy projects across the continent. The financing facility was arranged with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and is intended to support field development, improve production efficiency and strengthen the company's long-term growth strategy.

African-Led Financing Signals Growing Industry Confidence

The award-winning transaction reflects growing confidence among both African and international financial institutions in indigenous energy companies and their ability to execute large-scale projects.

Heirs Energies Chief Executive Officer Osa Igiehon said the recognition demonstrates trust in the company's strategy and long-term vision. According to him, the transaction shows that African-owned energy companies can successfully structure and deliver financing solutions that meet global standards while supporting investment and value creation.

The US$750 million facility has been designed to provide capital for expanding operations and optimising production while maintaining a disciplined approach to financial management. The deal also supports broader efforts to improve energy security and drive economic growth across Africa.

For Heirs Energies, the financing marks an important stage in its corporate development, allowing the company to align its capital structure with the long-term production potential of its energy assets.

Afreximbank Highlights Role of African Capital

Afreximbank Executive Vice President for Global Trade Bank, Haytham ElMaayergi, described the award as recognition of the importance of well-structured financing tailored to African businesses. He noted that the transaction demonstrates how African financial institutions can mobilise significant capital for strategic sectors such as energy, helping indigenous companies expand production capacity and create sustainable economic value. He added that the deal showcases the ability of African lenders to support businesses with strong governance, quality assets and clear growth plans.

Heirs Energies Chief Financial Officer Samuel Nwanze said the award validates both the strength of the transaction and the confidence shown by financing partners. He explained that the facility will support continued investment in field development and production optimisation while advancing the company's long-term objectives. Industry observers view the financing as a significant example of how African capital markets and financial institutions are playing a larger role in funding transformational projects across the continent. The transaction also highlights the growing capacity of indigenous companies to access sophisticated financing structures traditionally associated with major international energy firms. The EMEA Finance Project Finance Awards recognise outstanding transactions across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, honouring excellence, innovation and impact in project and structured finance.