Lagos: Experts in the oil and gas industry have emphasized that the adoption of digital technologies is pivotal for addressing inefficiencies and fostering sustainable growth in Nigeria's energy sector. They shared these insights at the 2025 Press Week Lecture and Symposium organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Chapel.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the symposium, themed 'Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas', brought together key industry players, media leaders, traditional rulers, students, and security officials to discuss the future of Nigeria's vital oil and gas industry. Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), represented by Vice Chairman Mr. Obi Uzu, emphasized the importance of digital solutions in various aspects of oil services, including exploration, drilling, and production. He noted that Nigeria's oil production had increased to approximately 1.7 million barrels per day and is expected to reach two million barrels soon.
Ogunsanya highlighted the benefits of increased oil production, such as strengthening the naira and funding critical infrastructure projects like railway networks, without resorting to excessive borrowing. He stressed the need for Nigeria to use oil revenue for national development, drawing comparisons to Norway's prudent investment of oil earnings in education and infrastructure.
Mr. Clement Isong, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Secretary of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), represented by Association Secretary Ms. Ogechi Nkwoji, underscored the urgent need for digital technology adoption among stakeholders and regulators. He pointed out that digital evolution can enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and align with sustainability goals, particularly in the downstream energy sector, which is crucial for Nigeria's economy.
Isong identified challenges such as price volatility, equipment failures, and environmental risks, linking them to outdated infrastructure and skill gaps. He proposed integrated digital tools like sensors, automation, and analytics to monitor refining, storage, distribution, and retail activities. Technologies such as IoT forecourt automation, AI-powered pipeline leak detection, and blockchain for supply chain transparency were highlighted as pivotal for the sector's advancement.
Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), advocated for policy reforms alongside digital transformation to unlock Nigeria's oil and gas potential. He stressed the need for coherent policies and strong institutions to attract investment and create jobs. Dr. Ayodele Oni, Partner and Chair of Energy and Natural Resources Practice Group at Bloomfield Law Practice, urged leveraging technology to support export innovations and reduce crude oil dependence.
Chief Joseph Keshinro, Chairman of the Lagos State Baales Forum, encouraged Nigerian youths to acquire digital skills to transform the energy sector. The event's panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Olu Philips, included insights on innovating and harnessing technology for industry revolution.
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police DCP Tijani Fatai, assured enhanced security for oil and gas investments during the digital transformation phase. Malam Ali M. Ali, Managing Director of NAN, expressed confidence in the symposium's insights for deepening understanding of digital transformation in the sector.
Mr. Yunus Yusuf, NUJ-NAN Chapel Chairman, urged stakeholders to leverage digital technology for a transparent and sustainable energy future, emphasizing its role in reshaping Nigeria's oil and gas landscape.