At the recently concluded IoT West Africa Conference and Exhibition, industry experts underscored the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and edge computing in reshaping operational efficiency within Africa’s upstream oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the event, Engr. Chichi Emenike FNSE participated alongside other senior industry figures in a technical session themed “Harnessing AI, IoT & Edge Computing for Operational Intelligence.”
She joined discussions with Abiodun Ogunjobi and Ikechukwu Ajumuka, where they examined how digital technologies are enabling the emergence of “smart oilfields.”
According to participants, the integration of AI-powered analytics and IoT-enabled sensors is increasingly being deployed to improve drilling performance, enhance asset monitoring, and enable predictive maintenance systems. These advancements, they noted, are helping operators reduce downtime while improving operational efficiency.
Emenike emphasized that from an asset management perspective, the adoption of these technologies can significantly improve return on investment (ROI). She noted that functions such as preventive and proactive maintenance, reliability management, hydrocarbon accounting, and reservoir optimization are all benefiting from digital transformation across the value chain.
She further stressed that while technology is a key driver of change, human capacity remains central to successful implementation. Training, continuous capacity building, and organizational culture were highlighted as critical enablers in ensuring sustainable adoption and protecting production baselines while supporting growth.
Other industry participants at the conference included Rosemond Phil-Othihiwa and Darshana Deka.
The event also featured notable addresses from Emomotimi John Agama and Emilomo Unuigbe Arorote, who shared insights on regulation, governance, and workforce development in evolving energy and technology landscapes.
The conference reinforced a broader industry consensus: digital transformation is accelerating across Africa’s energy sector, but sustained success will depend on aligning technological adoption with skilled workforce development and effective change management.