In a recent discussion, Oluchi Chibuzor addressed the pressing economic challenges facing Nigeria today, including soaring inflation and technological stagnation that impact vital revenue-generating sectors. Despite its diversified economy, which includes oil and gas, agriculture, and services, a significant portion of Nigeria’s GDP is still heavily dependent on primary industries—agriculture alone makes up 21.07 percent of this figure.
According to the United Nations, the key to linking economic growth, social development, and climate action lies in investing in infrastructure, sustainable industrial development, and technological innovation. To truly transform its economic landscape, Nigeria must adopt widespread industrial automation within its manufacturing and economic activities.
Elijah Daniel, the Digital and Software Business Leader for Sub-Saharan Africa at Schneider Electric, shared insights on how his company is contributing to Nigeria’s economic progress. Schneider Electric, a global leader in Digital Transformation and Process Automation, is establishing a strong foothold in Sub-Saharan Africa through innovative automation solutions and services, employing 150 dedicated staff members and operating four engineering centers in the region.
“Our advanced technologies and expert services are aimed at streamlining production processes, enhancing operational efficiency, and significantly reducing downtime and maintenance costs,” Elijah explained. “In a region where industries face unique challenges, we are committed to providing tailored automation solutions that promote productivity and sustainability.”
The company’s comprehensive automation solutions are specifically designed to meet the needs of industries with complex processes. For instance, in the consumer-packaged goods sector, manufacturers can achieve consistent product quality and minimize waste by automating production lines and integrating real-time monitoring systems.
Elijah highlighted Schneider Electric’s impact in the Nigerian Oil and Gas industry, where precision and safety are essential. “Our automation systems deliver integrated process control and safety solutions to numerous clients. This includes support for upstream, midstream, downstream, gas processing, storage, and loading facilities. Our Industrial and Process Automation solutions include EcoStruxure Foxboro Distributed Control Systems, EcoStruxure Triconex Safety Systems, Modicon PLCs, SCADA Systems, and Process Instrumentation,” he noted. “Our client base encompasses all the major international oil companies operating in Nigeria, alongside three petrochemical plants, one LNG plant, and the world’s largest 650,000 bpd private refinery. We efficiently manage plant processes, enhance asset safety, and ensure uninterrupted production.”
Elijah also addressed the severe issue of crude oil theft, which significantly threatens Nigeria’s revenue. “Safeguarding our oil resources is crucial for enhancing our economic power,” he stated. “Schneider Electric not only ensures consistent uptime for assets but also protects the entire production value chain in the oil and gas sector with pipeline monitoring solutions. This approach helps shield the Nigerian economy from potential losses caused by operational inefficiencies, safety incidents, or malicious activities.”
In regard to the mining sector, which accounted for only 0.77 percent of GDP in 2023 according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Elijah outlined how Schneider Electric’s solutions can improve operations. “From automated drilling and blasting to real-time asset monitoring, our technology can enhance production efficiency and reduce downtime for mining operators,” he said.
Elijah urged business leaders across Sub-Saharan Africa to invest in the right automation systems to drive seamless production and lower repair costs. The Customer First program at Schneider Electric focuses on supporting businesses in protecting their critical investments by maintaining hardware and software systems effectively, which in turn reduces downtime and enhances performance. This program also aims to lower total ownership costs through discounts and flexible funding options. “By partnering with Schneider Electric, Nigerian industries can unlock a new era of efficiency, safety, and sustainability,” he asserted.
In summary, Schneider Electric is playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s economic advancement by enhancing productivity, ensuring product quality, and promoting safety. As Nigeria moves towards industrialization and economic diversification, Schneider Electric emerges as a dependable partner, committed to delivering sustainable solutions and fostering growth. For those interested in transforming their operations, learn more about Schneider Electric’s innovative technologies today.
