Leadership

CIRUU’s advisory work is led by a senior team with direct experience across energy regulation, cross-border investment, critical-minerals strategy, and project execution in European and African markets.

Dr Victor Azubike

Founder & CEO
Dr Victor Azubike is a recognised global expert in energy and natural resources law, specialising in energy security, oil and gas, mineral contractual arrangements, and energy transition strategies. With over a decade of experience in the global energy industry, Victor has established himself as a leading authority on international energy issues.

Sebastian Schmidt

Co-Founder & Director
With a strong background in global development, policy consulting, and international relations, Sebastian brings a wealth of experience to CIRUU Energy. He has worked with EU institutions, international organisations, and NGOs, specialising in energy policy, communications strategy, and stakeholder engagement.

Nodebe Ezibe

Director
Nodebe Ezibe is a seasoned financial executive with over a decade of comprehensive experience in the financial industry, specialising in strategic financial management, advisory services, and investment analysis. With a solid foundation built through roles at prestigious organisations in Nigeria and Canada
Our Partner Network

The Partner Bench

CIRUU’s delivery capability is extended through a vetted bench of 6–8 specialist associates with expertise spanning legal, technical, geopolitical, and assurance disciplines. Every partner is assessed against CIRUU’s governance standards, including conflict screening, sanctions review, and quality-assurance protocols. This model allows us to deliver senior-calibre expertise across jurisdictions without the overhead of a large permanent team.
Founder & CEO

Dr Victor Azubike

Dr Victor Azubike is a recognised global expert in energy and natural resources law, specialising in energy security, oil and gas, mineral contractual arrangements, and energy transition strategies. With over a decade of experience in the global energy industry, Victor has established himself as a leading authority on international energy issues. His expertise extends to market development, policy formulation, governance, regulation, and fiscal frameworks within the energy sector. His deep understanding of the complexities of global energy challenges enables him to provide valuable insights and solutions in navigating the rapidly evolving energy landscape. Having worked in both corporate practice and the United Kingdom’s Higher Education sector, Victor brings a wealth of experience to his role as an energy expert and CEO. His expertise in policy, governance, regulation, and fiscal regimes further solidifies his reputation as a trusted advisor in energy and natural resources law. Publications in peer-reviewed journals document his significant contributions to global energy. A grant application assessor for the United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI). His recent work included the assessment of a grant application for the Government of Canada’s Canadian Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

Victor leverages his broad expertise to identify key opportunities for growth and development within CIRUU Energy. His deep understanding of the energy sector enables him to formulate innovative strategies that align with the company’s long-term objectives. By providing valuable insights and guidance, Victor empowers the team at CIRUU Energy to make informed decisions and seize new opportunities in the market. Victor’s leadership is essential in driving CIRUU Energy’s expansion into new markets and territories. With his proven track record of successful market penetration and business development, Victor will lead the company to establish a firm presence in key regions around the world. His strategic approach and forward-thinking mindset will position CIRUU Energy as a leading player in the global energy industry. Victor continues to steer CIRUU Energy towards success in a competitive and dynamic energy market. His visionary leadership paves the way for CIRUU Energy to achieve its goals and objectives, establishing itself as a key player in the global energy landscape.

Co-Founder & Director

Sebastian Schmidt

With a strong background in global development, policy consulting, and international relations, Sebastian brings a wealth of experience to CIRUU Energy. He has worked with EU institutions, international organisations, and NGOs, specialising in energy policy, communications strategy, and stakeholder engagement. Sebastian has a deep understanding of the MENA region and global conflict resolution, and has a proven track record in public affairs, project management, and cross-border collaboration. At CIRUU Energy, he leads efforts to foster international partnerships, enhance the company’s visibility, and ensure that clients receive timely and relevant insights into global energy and sustainability trends and geopolitical risk management.
His unique combination of strategic communications expertise and international affairs leadership makes him a key asset in navigating the complexities of the global energy transition.
Director

Nodebe Ezibe

Nodebe Ezibe is a seasoned financial executive with over a decade of comprehensive experience in the financial industry, specialising in strategic financial management, advisory services, and investment analysis. With a solid foundation built through roles at prestigious organisations in Nigeria and Canada, Nodebe has demonstrated a consistent ability to drive growth and deliver results in dynamic environments. During his tenure at KPMG Nigeria and Planet Capital, Nodebe honed his skills in financial consulting, working with a diverse portfolio of clients across various industries. He provided strategic insights and risk assessments, helping organisations optimise their financial performance and navigate regulatory challenges. He also worked at Moneris, Canada’s leading payment solution provider, serving as a senior financial support, providing strategic business support on various projects at the company.
Nodebe Ezibe’s diverse experience and strategic acumen position him as a valuable asset to CIRUU Energy and the broader financial community. His commitment to excellence and innovation continues to drive impactful results in every role he undertakes.