Experts in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry have said that adopting digital technology will help fix inefficiencies and support sustainable growth in the energy sector.
They spoke in Lagos during the 2025 Press Week Lecture and Symposium, organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and other reporters.
The theme of the event was “Transforming Energy: The Digital Evolution of Oil and Gas.”
The gathering brought together top industry leaders, media professionals, traditional rulers, students, and security officials to discuss the future of Nigeria’s vital oil industry.
Mr. Wole Ogunsanya, Chairman of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN), represented by Vice Chairman, Mr. Obi Uzu, highlighted the importance of digital solutions in exploration, drilling, production, and other oil services.
He noted that Nigeria’s oil production had reached about 1.7 million barrels per day and could soon hit two million.
Ogunsanya said increased production would strengthen the naira and fund major infrastructure like railways linking Lagos to the north, east, and south — without relying heavily on loans.
He stressed that oil revenue should be used for long-term national development, not just monthly distributions.
Citing Norway as an example, he said the Nordic nation invested oil earnings in education and infrastructure, while Nigeria spends most of its revenue immediately.
Mr. Clement Isong, CEO of the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), represented by Ms. Ogechi Nkwoji, said the industry urgently needs to embrace digital technology.
He explained that digital tools can cut costs, boost efficiency, improve safety, and align with sustainability goals.
Isong described the downstream energy sector as the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, stressing that when it fails, businesses and daily life suffer immediately.
He linked challenges like fuel losses, fraud, price instability, and environmental risks to outdated infrastructure, poor record-keeping, and lack of skills.
According to him, solutions include automation, data analytics, AI-powered monitoring, blockchain for transparency, and digital platforms for cashless fuel payments.
He noted that many MEMAN members are already adopting such technologies, which will improve safety, efficiency, accountability, and workforce productivity.
Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), said policy reforms must go hand in hand with digital transformation.
Speaking on “Unlocking the Potential of Nigeria’s Oil & Gas Sector and Promoting Digital Transformation,” he said clear policies, strong institutions, and bold leadership were key to attracting investment, creating jobs, and diversifying revenue.
He stressed that digitalization is no longer optional, as investors now demand transparency and strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.
Dr. Ayodele Oni, Partner at Bloomfield Law Practice, urged the Federal Government to use technology to boost oil and gas exports across Africa.
He called for more pipelines to move gas to North Africa and Europe, reducing overdependence on crude oil.
Oni also stressed that without constant innovation, Nigeria could fall behind as the world shifts to electric vehicles and cleaner fuels.
Mr. Joseph Keshinro, Chairman of the Lagos State Baales Forum, encouraged Nigerian youths to gain digital skills that will help transform the energy sector.
The event also featured a panel discussion with experts and journalists, who urged government and young people to harness technology to reshape the oil and gas industry.
The Lagos State Police Commissioner, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, represented by DCP Tijani Fatai, assured that police would protect oil and gas investments as the industry adopts digital tools.
He said this would be done through stronger collaboration with security agencies and the use of technology such as drones, command centres, and geo-fencing systems.
Mr. Ali M. Ali, Managing Director of NAN, said he was confident that the discussions would deepen understanding of digital transformation in oil and gas.
He praised the NUJ-NAN Lagos leadership for aligning with global trends and pledged NAN’s continued investment in digital tools, staff training, and infrastructure.
NUJ-NAN Chapel Chairman, Mr. Yunus Yusuf, urged stakeholders to embrace digital technology for a more transparent, efficient, and sustainable energy sector.
He said these tools could drive sustainability, empower communities, and transform Nigeria’s oil and gas industry for the future.
