By Ebunoluwa Sessou

President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE, Engr. Margaret Oguntala, FNSE, has called for the use of Artificial Intelligence, AI, to ensure pipeline integrity in real-time monitoring systems.

The event served as a crucial platform for driving forward Nigeria’s pipeline infrastructure agenda, ensuring that it continues to support both national economic development and environmental preservation.

Giving a keynote address at the at 2024 Nigerian International Pipeline Technology & Security Conference, Oguntala who was represented by the NSE Vice-President, Corporate Services, Engr. (Dr) Felicia Agubata, FNSE,  highlighted the central role of pipelines in Nigeria’s Energy sector.

The conference, which gathered key stakeholders from government, industry and academia, focused on the theme: Pipelines – Critical Assets for National Economic Development & Environmental Sustainability.

In her address, Oguntala emphasized that pipelines are not only crucial for energy transportation but also for job creation, industrialisation, and supporting key infrastructure projects in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. Proper pipeline management, she noted, is vital for energy security and economic diversification.

She stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to mitigate risks such as vandalism, leaks, and oil theft, which could jeopardize both the economy and the environment. 

She called for enhanced security measures and better monitoring systems to protect these critical assets.