Baker Hughes’ automated solution makes its first foray into Sub-Saharan Africa to optimize oil & gas production

U.S.-headquartered energy technology giant Baker Hughes has received a new order to deploy its integrated digital production optimization solution for offshore operations in Nigeria, which marks the first adoption of its system in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Thanks to an agreement with Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and FIRST Exploration & Petroleum Development Company (FIRST E&P) joint venture (JV), Baker Hughes’ Leucipa automated field production solution will be implemented on the JV’s offshore operations in the Niger Delta.  

Amerino Gatti, Executive Vice President of Oilfield Services & Equipment at Baker Hughes, commented: “Leucipa is enhancing the oilfield to be smarter and more efficient, enabling our customers to maximize the value of their assets. Our collaboration with the NNPC/FIRST E&P JV in implementing Leucipa will support the responsible development of energy resources needed in Sub-Saharan Africa for years to come.”

The solution’s core workflows will be used to boost well performance and enhance efficiency by automating functions, including performance analysis, opportunity management, and scorecard management. According to the U.S. giant, the system’s real-time data will offer the JV partners a more insightful view of optimization opportunities across their operations, resulting in enhanced decision-making in the field.

While explaining that its Leucipa automated field production solution assists oil and gas operators in proactively managing production and reducing carbon emissions, the company underlines that its solution utilizes data to drive intelligent operations by focusing on the specific outcomes desired by operators.

“Through the automation of production processes, Leucipa aims to minimize inefficiencies, ensure environmentally sound operations, and assist customers in recovering the millions of barrels that would otherwise remain untapped,” highlighted Baker Hughes while adding that its digital solutions help operators achieve greater efficiency, extend asset life, and maximize returns.

The U.S. energy technology player has started 2025 on the right foot, with several deals already in the bag. The agreement in Nigeria comes shortly after Baker Hughes secured a multi-year assignment on two floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) units for ExxonMobil’s oil projects on the Stabroek block off the coast of Guyana.

Following its LNG deals with Venture Global in the United States, the firm won a contract for its liquefaction solution and related services with Argent LNG for the proposed natural gas export facility in Port Fourchon, Louisiana.

In addition, the U.S. giant also joined forces with Hanwha to design and develop a small-size ammonia gas turbine for carbon-free ship operations.