By Ayo Onikoyi

Mr. Femi Ogboja is a Petroleum Engineering Management expert in Canada with professional experiences spanning Africa, Europe, and North America with over twenty years of experience.

With over twenty years in the oil and gas sector, can you walk us through your professional journey?

With over 20 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, I began my career by mastering the technical fundamentals of well construction and reservoir management. My initial roles involved sand control, production enhancement, and completion design, working with seasoned engineers on the basics of drilling and reservoir behavior. My time at Halliburton in Nigeria marked a significant step forward, where I focused on optimizing well completions, collaborating with geologists and engineers, and leading small teams.

Midway through my career, I joined Schlumberger, where I undertook roles like Production Stimulation Engineer. This phase offered exposure to unconventional reservoirs and deepwater fields in challenging environments, particularly across West and South Africa. Overseeing regional projects, I gained senior-level responsibilities and became known for delivering results in completions and production stimulation. My recent roles have involved non-destructive testing (NDT) inspections for oil and gas installations, ensuring the safety and integrity of pipelines and equipment. Certified in API 510 and API 570 standards, I now focus on mentoring young engineers, leveraging my decades of expertise to drive innovation and growth.

Out of your listed roles you have worked in, which was the most fulfilling to you?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my career was working in fracturing and stimulation, where I served as Senior Technical Sales Support Engineer. This role enabled me to integrate data-driven designs into operational processes, ensuring effective project delivery. For example, I served as the primary contact for Nigerian clients, generating $25 million in revenue from ExxonMobil and managing offshore projects worth $30 million. I led technical efforts like fracturing fluid QA/QC and site preparation, directly saving clients substantial costs while securing repeat projects. My contributions earned me a promotion to Schlumberger’s Eureka Technical Community, further validating the impact of my work.

Haven risen to managerial and leading roles in Nigeria for an oil giant like Schlumberger, what advice do you have for upcoming oil and gas engineers?

For emerging professionals in oil and gas, my key advice is to master core engineering principles while remaining adaptable. Early career success depends on a solid technical foundation, but long-term growth demands flexibility, especially in leadership roles. Prioritize safety and quality, as these are the bedrock of operational success. Beyond technical skills, cultivate problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking abilities to build trust and reliability. Networking, maintaining resilience, and embracing lifelong learning are equally important for career advancement. By focusing on these elements, young engineers can navigate challenges and seize opportunities in this dynamic industry.

Could you briefly state the importance of technical sales support engineering in the Fracturing and Stimulation aspects of the upstream/midstream sector?

In the upstream and midstream oil and gas sectors, technical sales support engineering is indispensable, particularly in fracturing and stimulation. Engineers in this role bridge the gap between client needs and technical expertise, simplifying complex processes for stakeholders. They optimize solutions tailored to reservoir characteristics, improving production rates and minimizing risks. Additionally, these professionals drive innovation, enhance execution strategies, and foster long-term client relationships. In my experience, this role is vital for operational success and customer satisfaction, ensuring the industry evolves to meet ever-changing demands.

Having worked and served in different capacities within and outside the African continent, comparing both worlds, what are the fundamental distinguishing factors that impact greatly on the industry which are lacking here in Africa?

Africa’s oil and gas sector has significant potential, but several gaps remain compared to global practices despite her abundant human resources, natural resources and geographical advantage. Outside Africa, robust infrastructure, advanced technology, and efficient supply chains reduce operational delays and costs. In contrast, limited infrastructure and logistics challenges often hinder African projects. Investment and funding disparities further impact scalability, with political instability deterring foreign investments. However, Africa’s abundant resources and growing talent pool present opportunities. Improved infrastructure, R&D investment, and consistent regulations can propel the continent toward global competitiveness, fostering sustainable growth in the sector.

What, in your opinion, is the future of well services management in the oil and gas industry and how can oil-producing African nations position themselves adequately in the future to their own advantage?

The future of well services lies in digitalization, automation, and sustainability. Emerging technologies like predictive analytics, remote monitoring, and automated interventions will enhance efficiency and decision-making. For African oil-producing nations, investing in digital infrastructure and skills development is critical. Regional collaboration can also amplify resources, reduce costs, and strengthen collective bargaining power on the global stage. By embracing these trends, African nations can secure a competitive edge in the evolving energy landscape, positioning themselves as key players in the global oil and gas industry.

What would you consider as the greatest challenge so far in your 20 years of career experience and how were you able to successfully handle it?

One of the toughest challenges I faced was during an industry downturn, which led to a significant loss of experienced personnel. As Well Services Sales and Commercial Manager, I worked to rebuild operations with limited resources while implementing cost-saving measures. Leading my team, I negotiated pricing for new technology deployments, resulting in a 30% revenue increase for a $6 million exploration project. Continuous improvement campaigns saved a client $1 million, despite resistance from employees struggling with the industry’s uncertainties. By empowering and guiding my team, we achieved remarkable successes under challenging circumstances.

Considering the demands of your job, how are you able to maintain a work-life/family balance? What practical tips would you give to professionals struggling in this regard?

Maintaining work-life balance in a demanding industry like oil and gas requires intentionality. I prioritize time management, set boundaries, and delegate tasks to create space for quality family time. Health and well-being are also crucial, as is learning to say no when necessary. My approach has enabled me to manage high-pressure roles effectively while maintaining personal fulfillment.

Are you involved in any form of mentorship of young people, whether Africa or abroad as a way of giving back to society?

Yes, mentorship is one of my most rewarding endeavors, offering a platform to share lessons and inspire the next generation of industry professionals. My global perspective allows me to provide valuable guidance on navigating complex projects, fostering resilience, and emphasizing ethical practices. Supporting young engineers is both a responsibility and a privilege, ensuring the industry continues to thrive with capable and innovative talent.