Top 10 Highest-Paid CEOs in Nigeria for 2026 Revealed

In 2026, a ranking of Nigeria's highest-paid CEOs revealed that Roger Thompson Brown of Seplat Energy earned an estimated annual remuneration of ₦3.90 billion, making him the highest-paid CEO in the country. Following him was Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria, with ₦3.14 billion.

The ranking indicated that three executives earned more than ₦2 billion, while the 10th highest was compensated at ₦471 million. Notably, Adaora Umeoji of Zenith Bank was the only woman on the list, underscoring a significant gender imbalance in executive compensation.

The figures represent estimated annual remuneration, which includes salary, bonuses, allowances, and other compensation. Roger Brown joined Seplat Energy in 2013 as Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director, becoming CEO in August 2020.

He played a crucial role in Seplat's $1.28 billion acquisition of ExxonMobil’s Nigerian shallow-water business. However, it was announced in June 2026 that Brown would retire on July 31, 2026, after 13 years with the company.