By Chidi Ugwu
Copyright independent
Chidi Ugwu
Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) has unveiled an ambitious strategy to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) across its operations, positioning the technology as a cornerstone for boosting efficiency, reliability, and sustainability in the energy sector.
The announcement, made by NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, Olakunle Osobu, during a panel session titled “Operational Excellence through the Application of Artificial Intelligence Technologies” at the 2025 Gastech Conference in Milan, underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and its Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Goal Zero aspirations.
Speaking at the global energy conference on Wednesday, Osobu described AI as “today’s driver of efficiency, reliability, and sustainability” rather than a futuristic concept.
“At NLNG, we’re embedding AI across our value chain to ensure our business is future-ready,” he said. “Importantly, our ‘Goal Zero’ safety policy and operational efficiency targets are being significantly enhanced by AI, leading to improvements in safety and business performance across the company’s entire value chain.”
Osobu highlighted how NLNG is leveraging AI to transform its operations. Virtual reality tools and AI agents are accelerating staff onboarding and enhancing knowledge retention, while smart cameras and satellite technologies provide advanced visual analytics for precise monitoring of operations and safety compliance.
Process automation and predictive maintenance tools are optimizing production and improving asset reliability, ensuring plants operate at peak performance.
Additionally, AI-driven emissions monitoring is strengthening NLNG’s commitment to its energy transition goals, aligning with global efforts for cleaner energy solutions.
“Integrating AI into existing platforms is the critical first step for any organization,” Osobu emphasized, noting that this approach unlocks predictive, preventive, and corrective maintenance strategies.
He also highlighted NLNG’s value-first approach, with the company’s Centre of Excellence upskilling staff to align AI adoption with business needs, ensuring tangible value delivery.
NLNG’s participation at Gastech 2025, a premier global energy conference, underscores its leadership in shaping the future of the industry.
The company’s focus on smart technologies aligns with its vision of being “a globally competitive energy company, improving lives sustainably.”
Sophia Horsfall, NLNG’s General Manager of External Relations and Sustainable Development, signed the press statement, reaffirming the company’s commitment to championing innovation and sustainable energy solutions.
The announcement has sparked positive reactions on platforms like X, with energy analysts and users like @EnergyWatchNG praising NLNG’s proactive adoption of AI as a model for African energy firms.
Industry observers note that NLNG’s strategy could enhance Nigeria’s position in the global LNG market, where it already accounts for 7% of exports, while supporting the country’s decarbonization goals.
As NLNG continues to integrate AI, its efforts are poised to set a benchmark for operational excellence and sustainability in the energy sector.
