KEY POINTS
- NITDA and NNPC are strengthening collaboration to digitise Nigeria’s energy sector using advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and robotics.
- The partnership will leverage startups, youth innovation, and local tech talent to develop industry-specific solutions.
- The initiative aims to improve efficiency, boost revenue, and ensure sustainable growth across the energy value chain.
The National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) have strengthened their partnership to accelerate digital transformation across Nigeria’s energy sector.
The renewed collaboration is being driven through NNPC’s Research, Technology and Innovation (RTI) unit, with both organisations exploring strategies to deploy emerging technologies that can reposition the country’s energy industry for the future.
Speaking during a courtesy visit in Abuja by the RTI Director, Olatomiwa Olaniyi, NITDA Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasised the urgent need for NNPC to transition from its traditional reliance on oil and gas extraction to a more innovation-driven model.
He highlighted technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics as critical tools for enhancing energy production, improving efficiency, and ensuring sustainability.
Inuwa noted that information technology now serves as a backbone across industries and will play a decisive role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape. He also outlined NITDA’s strategic priorities, including boosting digital literacy, supporting local talent, strengthening research ecosystems, and promoting indigenous technology solutions.
According to him, reducing dependence on foreign technologies while fostering homegrown innovation is essential for achieving digital sovereignty and long-term economic growth.
The NITDA boss further disclosed plans to connect NNPC with Nigeria’s growing startup ecosystem by building a strong innovation pipeline. Through incubation programmes and innovation challenges, startups will be encouraged to develop practical, industry-specific solutions for the oil and gas sector.
He also pointed to ongoing initiatives targeting young Nigerians, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, many of whom are already developing solutions to real-world challenges through NITDA-backed programmes.
