NNPC Calls For Enhanced Collaboration On Data Exchange Amongst Gas Exporting Countries

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has called for enhanced collaboration among Member countries of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) on Data Exchange in order to remain competitive on the global stage.

The call was made by the Group Managing Director of the corporation, Dr. Maikanti Baru, represented by Nigeria’s representative in the GECF Mr. Bala Wunti while declaring open a Strategic Workshop on GECF Data Exchange Mechanism at the NNPC Towers in Abuja.

Wunti who is also a Group General Manager Corporate Planning & Strategy, said Big data, Predictive analytics and Artificial Intelligence provides a platform for closer collaboration and access to new quality knowledge and opportunities which not only give nations a competitive advantage in the market but also develops the entire industry as a whole by revealing hidden and latent potential.

“Our strategy as it relates to data management is anchored on three prong areas. First, Big Data and data analytics is a compelling recipe for driving home innovation and efficiency which is in alignment with our 12 key Business focus Areas. Secondly, predictive analytics forms the nerve centre to query data, validate patterns, create “what if scenarios conduct risk assessment and test the validity of assumptions in this important business of ours. Thirdly, Nigeria’s leading role in GECF with NNPC’s matured experience in the gas business highlights data exchange and Digital transformation as a panacea to increased productivity, safer operations, and cost savings across the natural gas value chain,” he said.

Also speaking, the Executive Board Member of Nigeria, Dr Omar Farouk charged Workshop participants to have robust discussions, share experience and draw from the knowledge and experience of the experts from the GECF secretariat for enhanced capacity and productivity.

However, applauding Nigeria for being active in GECF activities the Leader of the GECF delegation and Head of Data and Information Services of the GECF, Dr. Roberto Arenas Lar stated that Nigeria being the founding member of the forum would host the 3rd edition of the workshop in order to build capacity, enhance collaboration and share experience with relevant professionals in the country.

The Workshop participants are drawn from different business units across the Corporation.