Digital Transformation Set to Revolutionize Nigeria’s Energy Sector, Experts Say
Nigeria’s energy sector is poised for a major transformation as industry experts call for the full adoption of digital technologies to tackle long-standing operational and infrastructural challenges. Speaking at the Nigeria Union of Journalists and News Agency of Nigeria Chapel’s Press Week Lecture and Symposium in Lagos, experts stressed that digital tools could boost efficiency, safety, and sustainability across the oil and gas value chain. The event, themed “Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas,” brought together media professionals, traditional leaders, students, and key industry stakeholders.
Wole Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria, represented by Vice Chairman Obi Uzu, highlighted Nigeria’s growing oil production, which recently reached about 1.7 million barrels per day and is expected to hit 2 million barrels soon. He emphasized that increased oil revenue could strengthen the naira and fund critical infrastructure projects, including railway networks connecting major regions, without relying excessively on foreign loans. Ogunsanya also compared Nigeria’s approach to Norway’s model, urging the country to invest oil earnings in long-term development rather than distributing them monthly.
Experts from the downstream sector, including the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), underlined the urgent need for digitalisation. CEO Clement Isong, represented by Ogechi Nkwoji, noted that Nigeria’s downstream operations form the backbone of the economy, and challenges such as price volatility, equipment failure, fuel losses, and fraud are linked to ageing infrastructure and poor record-keeping. He advocated for integrated digital solutions—like IoT forecourt automation, AI-powered pipeline leak detection, blockchain for supply chain transparency, and cashless fuelling platforms—to modernize refining, storage, distribution, and retail operations.
Policy experts stressed that digital adoption must be paired with reforms to unlock the sector’s potential. Dr. Muda Yusuf of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise emphasized the need for coherent policies, strong institutions, and bold leadership to attract investments, diversify revenue, and create jobs. Dr. Ayodele Oni of Bloomfield Law Practice added that expanding pipeline infrastructure for gas exports to North Africa and Europe, alongside leveraging technology for remote facility monitoring, could help Nigeria remain competitive in the global shift toward cleaner energy and electric vehicles.
Energy companies are already embracing digital transformation to enhance safety, transparency, and operational efficiency. Aveek Biswas, Head of Corporate Communications at Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company (SEEPCO), said the company has implemented real-time digital incident reporting, safety tracking, and streamlined e-permit systems. According to Biswas, these platforms not only support responsible exploration and production but also align Nigeria’s oil and gas operations with global standards, ensuring long-term economic growth and investor confidence.
source: punch