Yemisi Awonuga: A Legacy in Energy & Infrastructure Law

Yemisi Awonuga’s rise to prominence in the legal field is a testament to her unwavering dedication, intellectual prowess, and a profound understanding of the energy and infrastructure finance sectors. With a Master of Science in Energy Studies from the University of Dundee and a Master of Laws in Commercial Law from Cardiff Law School, Yemisi has positioned herself as a formidable figure in the legal world.

Yemisi’s expertise in energy and infrastructure finance is widely recognized. She has earned accolades from IFLR1000 Guide to the World’s Leading Financial Law Firms and Who’s Who Legal, marking her as a leading practitioner. Her 13 years of diverse experience have equipped her with the ability to advise clients on the bankability of projects, focusing on risk evaluation, allocation, and mitigation through contractual documentation.

Her deep understanding of the Nigerian petroleum sector is particularly noteworthy. Over the last five years, Yemisi has concentrated on advising on integrated oil and gas commercialization projects, crude oil evacuation systems, acquisition of oil and gas assets, structured financing for energy projects, gas project conceptualization studies, and regulatory matters. Her knowledge of the regulatory framework in this sector is unparalleled.

A Selection of Relevant Experience

Yemisi’s impressive portfolio includes:

• Indorama Eleme Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited: Advised on a US$1.2 billion financing deal, which was awarded the African Petrochemical Deal of the Year by PFI Thomson Reuters.
• Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG): Advised a consortium of 31 banks, export credit agencies, and development financing institutions on a US$3 billion hybrid financing for the NLNG Train 7 Project.
• Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority and OCP Group: Acting for the project company on the development of a gas utilization integrated chemicals complex in Nigeria.
• Notore Chemicals Plc.: Advising on the ongoing development of its Train II gas-to-petrochemical infrastructure complex.
• ANOH Gas Processing Company Limited (AGPC): Advised on a US$320 million debt facility and the project development of the Assa North/Ohaji South Gas Project.
• Heirs Oil & Gas Limited: Advised on the US$1.1 billion acquisition of a 45% participating interest in OML 17.
• Sojitz Construction: Acted on the acquisition of a 25% interest in Glover Gas and Power B.V., including extensive risk identification and evaluation.
• Eroton: Advised on the US$1.2 billion acquisition of a 45% participating interest in OML 18, providing a comprehensive red-flag due diligence report.

My Story, Your Inspiration

Reflecting on her journey, Yemisi credits her success to her parents, Christ, and the challenges she has faced. Raised not as a girl-child but as a human, her parents instilled in her the belief that “there is enough room at the top, and that is where you belong. So work for it.” This mantra, combined with a relentless pursuit of learning and mentorship from some of the finest minds in the legal profession, has guided her career.

Growing up, Yemisi was always encouraged to strive for excellence. “Excellence in legal service delivery is key, and your eye must always be on the ball,” she says. This philosophy has undoubtedly contributed to her remarkable achievements.

Yemisi’s story is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring lawyers. Her journey underscores the importance of hard work, continuous learning, and resilience. As she continues to make strides in the legal field, her legacy serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and dedication, one can overcome any challenge and reach the pinnacle of success.