Nigeria’s oil and gas industry is missing out on significant growth opportunities due to a lack of tech investment and industry collaboration, according to George Onafowokan, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Coleman Technical Industries Limited.
Onafowokan’s comments, made in a recent interview, emphasize the need for increased investment in cutting-edge energy technologies and stronger collaboration among industry stakeholders. He notes that this synergy is essential for driving innovation, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing the competitiveness of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector on the global stage.
Tech Investment Key to Energy Growth
Onafowokan highlights that inadequate tech investment has resulted in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry struggling to keep pace with global trends. He stresses that investing in digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) can help optimize production processes, reduce costs, and improve environmental sustainability.
According to Onafowokan, industry collaboration is also critical in identifying areas where technology can be applied to drive growth and address challenges. This collaboration can facilitate knowledge sharing, joint research and development, and the adoption of best practices across the sector.
Industry Collaboration Crucial for Knowledge Sharing
Onafowan emphasizes that industry collaboration is vital for building a robust ecosystem that promotes innovation and entrepreneurship. He notes that by sharing knowledge and expertise, industry stakeholders can identify new business opportunities, develop innovative solutions, and create jobs.
Onafowokan’s call for increased tech investment and industry collaboration resonates with the Nigerian government’s efforts to diversify the country’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil exports. By embracing technological advancements and fostering a collaborative environment, Nigeria’s oil and gas industry can unlock new growth opportunities and position itself for long-term success.
What this means
In practical terms, increased tech investment and industry collaboration can lead to improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced environmental sustainability in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This can also create new business opportunities, drive innovation, and create jobs, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic growth and diversification efforts.



