Oando Plc, one of Africa’s leading energy companies, is setting its sights on artificial intelligence (AI) to transform its drilling operations. Speaking during an interview with CNBC Africa at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Oando’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Wale Tinubu, revealed the company’s plan to deploy AI in its next drilling exercise to boost efficiency and optimize resources.
“AI is a game-changer,” Tinubu said. “In our drilling operations, we make critical decisions that significantly impact costs. By leveraging AI to analyze past experiences and generate potential solutions, we can improve decision-making and enhance overall performance. This is something we are looking forward to deploying in our next drilling campaign.”
Tinubu also announced a bold partnership with the Lagos State Government to introduce 5,000 electric buses for public transportation, a move aimed at cutting carbon emissions in Nigeria.
The initiative will use gas as a transitional fuel to generate electricity for powering the buses, offering a cleaner energy solution for the state’s bustling transportation system.
“Transport accounts for 10% of global emissions. By transitioning public transport from diesel and petrol to electric buses, we can reduce emissions by 5% almost immediately,” Tinubu explained.
“This pilot project with Lagos State will pave the way for sustainable public transportation in Nigeria, with up to 5,000 e-buses on our streets.”
The CEO emphasized Oando’s commitment to a ‘just’ energy transition by integrating clean energy solutions and employing carbon capture techniques to offset emissions.
“For every unit of carbon we emit, we are also working to remove it through carbon capture technologies. We’re doubling down on clean energy solutions, including e-vehicles, as part of our broader strategy,” he said.
However, Tinubu stressed that Africa’s energy transition must account for its unique challenges. With 45% of the continent’s population lacking access to electricity, he called for a balanced approach that prioritizes energy accessibility alongside decarbonization.
“The global decarbonization push must recognize Africa’s realities,” he argued. “We must first use what we have, like gas, as part of an energy mix that meets the continent’s immediate needs while transitioning to cleaner alternatives.”
This dual focus on innovation and sustainability underscores Oando’s ambition to lead Africa’s energy sector toward a greener and more equitable future.
