Amid the expansion of oil and gas infrastructure in Nigeria and West Africa, an expert in the field of mechanical integrity, Ekpenyong Okon, has emerged as one of the most reliable and seasoned professionals in asset integrity and process optimization.

With over a decade of experience in inspecting and safeguarding critical equipment in the oil and gas production and refining industries, Okon has become known for his attention to detail and commitment to safety.

His career is a story of dedication to ensuring that operations remain both efficient and risk-free, a focus that has earned him numerous accolades in high-profile projects.

In an interactive session with newsmen regarding the future of asset integrity and infrastructure safety in Nigeria’s energy sector, Okon emphasised that government intervention and support are essential to advancing industry standards.

“The government must prioritize policies that support safety protocols and regular inspections of critical infrastructure,” he stated.

According to Okon, proper regulations would not only prevent costly failures but also improve the reliability of operations across the industry.

His insights come at a time when the need for safety and efficiency in oil and gas operations has never been more pressing.

Okon’s extensive project experience underscores his authority on these issues.

He revealed how he has been involved in several milestone projects across West Africa, with roles that have ranged from managing large inspection teams to leading comprehensive corrosion control initiatives.

A defining project in his career was the Corrosion Condition Monitoring (CCM) Project in a third party inspection agency for ExxonMobil Nigeria Unlimited in 2019. Leading a multiple teams at the QIT-Ibeno facility, Okon oversaw the mechanical integrity of pressure-containing equipment in the hydrocarbon processing plant, ensuring that strict safety measures were upheld.

His leadership on this project was critical, resulting in multiple safety awards and commendations for delivering results under stringent timeframes.

Okon explained that this type of project is essential for the safety and reliability operation of facilities handling hazardous materials.

“Corrosion is a major risk in hydrocarbon processing plants, and continuous monitoring helps us prevent accidents before they occur,” he noted.

His expertise was similarly instrumental in the Chevron Nigeria Limited Corrosion Control Campaign in Escravos in 2016. Here, he led non-destructive testing (NDT) efforts on process piping, Risers, and pressure vessels, using ultrasonic technology to detect material loss due to corrosion at an early stage.

This proactive approach, according to him, helped Chevron maintain safe and reliable operations in a challenging, corrosion-prone environment.

He further elaborated on the importance of adopting a risk-based approach in managing these infrastructures.

In 2023, Okon took on the role of Asset Integrity Lead for Tullow Oil & Gas in Takoradi, Ghana, a project that involved comprehensive asset integrity planning and preventive maintenance.

“Risk-based inspection allows us to allocate resources to the areas that need them most, reducing both downtime and potential hazards,” he shared with newsmen, emphasising that such data-driven methodologies are crucial in today’s energy sector.

Through this project, he supervised maintenance for fixed plant equipment, diagnosing and remediating equipment anomalies to ensure sustained reliability.

Describing himself as a proactive advocate for continuous improvement, he highlighted the importance of aligning with international best practices.

He is an active member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), the Nigerian Corrosion Association (NICA), and the Association of Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), professional organizations that contribute to his expertise and help him stay abreast of emerging methodologies and technologies.

In the news session, he pointed out that such affiliations are vital for staying updated with the latest advancements in corrosion control and materials protection.

“To drive progress in our industry, professionals need to engage with these associations, which set standards for safety and reliability,” he explained.

His engagement with these organisations has helped him refine his approach to mechanical integrity and asset protection, qualities that distinguish him in the field.

His leadership in monitoring and preventive maintenance strategies has not only ensured operational continuity but has also saved companies millions in potential repair and downtime costs.

Okon’s reputation for safety and reliability is further evidenced by his track record of safety awards. Throughout his career, he has consistently prioritised meticulous inspection and maintenance processes, often going beyond the basic requirements to implement systems that enhance plant reliability and safety.

He noted in the news session that these awards represent a broader commitment to upholding the highest safety standards across all his projects.

Looking to the future, Okon urged for more collaboration between government bodies, industry players, and professional associations to establish rigorous standards for plant safety and efficiency.

He believes that with consistent government support, the industry can significantly reduce equipment-related hazards and improve operational standards.

“Safety is not just about compliance; it’s about fostering a culture where every worker and every piece of equipment is protected,” he stated, calling for enhanced training programs and regulatory oversight.