Musa Adekunle Adewoyin is an electrical engineering expert whose innovative work in the oil and gas sector has reshaped energy operations, in the last 10 years. During this period, Musa successfully executed transformative projects, restoring critical infrastructure, enhancing system reliability, and ensuring operational safety. His ability to deliver tailored solutions for complex challenges sets him apart as a leader who can inspire systemic change in Nigeria’s energy sector. In this interview, Musa reflects on some of his most impactful projects and shares how his expertise can be leveraged to drive sustainable, efficient, and reliable energy solutions across Nigeria.
Can you tell us about some of the standout projects you’ve worked on during your career and their impact on energy operations?
One of the most impactful projects I handled was the Berthing Offshore Platform Diesel Generator Restoration Project in 2015. The platform’s 150kVA diesel generator developed a critical fault that reduced redundancy and risked significant production losses. I diagnosed the issue—a failed rotating rectifier block caused by insulation resistance failure—and restored the generator to full operation within pre-agreed timeline. This action prevented potential volume losses of up to300,000 barrels of crude oil per day and restored the platform’s power reliability. In 2019, I led the Telecommunication Room Battery Bank Replacement Project. The platform’s IT and communication systems were down due to a failed backup battery bank. I replaced the 48Vdc, 200Ah battery bank, ensuring 20-hour autonomy for the telecommunication system. This restoration improved communication infrastructure and secured seamless operations. Both projects demonstrated the importance of fast, safe and effective problem-solving to mitigate risks and sustain operations.
What broader lessons can these projects teach Nigeria’s energy sector?
These projects highlight the importance of redundancy and proactive maintenance. Restoring the diesel generator taught me that having reliable backup systems is critical for preventing disruptions, a principle Nigeria can apply to its power grid. By ensuring redundancy, we can reduce the risk of blackouts and improve energy reliability.
The telecommunication battery replacement project underlined the critical role of communication systems in ensuring smooth operations. In Nigeria’s energy sector, investments in communication technologies will enable real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and better fault management, all of which contribute to a more resilient energy infrastructure.
Preventive maintenance is often emphasized in discussions on energy efficiency. How has your experience reflected this?
Preventive maintenance has been integral to my work. During my time maintaining high-voltage transformers, motors, and switchgears, I implemented reliability-centered maintenance schedules that improved equipment uptime to 98%.
I relied on tools like Condition Monitoring Systems (CMS) and diagnostic technologies to identify issues before they caused system failures. For Nigeria, adopting preventive and condition-based maintenance strategies across power plants and distribution networks would reduce unplanned outages, extend the lifespan of infrastructure, and ensure energy sustainability.
How does your experience with communication systems align with addressing Nigeria’s broader energy challenges?
Communication systems are essential for efficient energy management. In the Telecommunication Room Battery Bank Replacement Project, restoring backup power for IT systems ensured uninterrupted communication for the platform. This allowed for real-time monitoring and operational control, which are critical for avoiding disruptions. In Nigeria, building robust communication networks across the energy grid would optimize grid management. By enabling seamless data flow between generation plants, substations, and distribution networks, we can improve fault detection, enhance coordination, and significantly reduce downtime.
Safety and compliance are critical in energy operations. How have you approached these areas, and what can Nigeria learn from your methods?
Safety has always been a cornerstone of my work. During the diesel generator restoration, I followed strict safety protocols to protect personnel and ensure operational continuity. Similarly, preventive maintenance activities I carried out adhered to international standards, such as NFPA and OSHA, to minimize hazards. For Nigeria, creating a National Energy Safety Framework would be transformative. This framework should align with global best practices while addressing local challenges. Training energy professionals in safety protocols, combined with routine compliance checks, would create a safer work environment and improve system reliability by preventing avoidable incidents.
What role do you see for sustainability in transforming Nigeria’s energy sector, and how does your work align with this vision?
Sustainability is key to building a resilient energy system. Even in fossil fuel-dependent operations, sustainability can be achieved through efficient resource use and modern technology. For instance, during the diesel generator restoration, I optimized fuel usage, reducing waste and environmental impact. Nigeria can apply similar principles by leveraging its gas reserves as a transitional fuel while scaling up investments in renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Additionally, adopting circular economy practices, such as reusing materials and reducing operational waste, would align the sector with global sustainability goals.
You’ve mentored several young engineers in your career. How can mentorship and capacity building impact Nigeria’s energy sector?
Mentorship is critical for developing the next generation of engineers. I’ve mentored junior engineers and technicians, equipping them with skills in preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and safety compliance. This not only improves their individual capabilities but also strengthens overall team performance. For Nigeria, mentorship and capacity-building programs can address the skills gap in the energy sector. Establishing nationwide training initiatives would empower engineers to manage modern energy systems effectively. A skilled workforce is essential for driving innovation, ensuring operational efficiency, and achieving long-term energy sustainability.
What legacy do you hope to leave through your contributions to the energy sector?
I hope to leave a legacy of innovation, reliability, and sustainability. My work has always been driven by the desire to create lasting value, whether through restoring critical systems, mentoring engineers, or implementing reliability-centered maintenance frameworks.
