The Chief Executive Officer of CPAAT Consulting, Mr. Folarin Banigbe, has unveiled the company’s strategic plan to accelerate digital transformation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector through smart technology, collaboration, and forward-looking leadership.
Banigbe made the announcement during a media briefing in Lagos to unveil the upcoming CPAAT CIO Retreat 2025, themed “Transforming the Oil and Gas Sector with Smart Technology.” He described the retreat as a convergence of Nigeria’s leading digital transformation minds rather than just another industry conference.
“This retreat isn’t just another event,” Banigbe said. “It’s a space for chief information officers, chief technology officers, and decision-makers in the oil, gas, and energy industries to move beyond theory into real collaboration and measurable results.”
He explained that the CIO Retreat 2025, scheduled to gather top technology executives, regulators, and business partners, was designed to help industry leaders rethink the future of the energy sector by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, automation, and cybersecurity solutions.
The CPAAT CEO noted that while innovation can drive massive change, technology on its own cannot deliver sustainable progress without proper strategic alignment. “We’ve seen how technology can power transformation,” Banigbe said. “But we’ve also seen that innovation without strategy doesn’t last. This retreat bridges that gap — it’s about helping industry leaders redefine digital leadership in a sector that remains vital to Nigeria’s economy and global competitiveness.”
According to Banigbe, Nigeria’s energy sector is currently at a turning point where operational efficiency, data security, and sustainability depend on how quickly leaders adopt digital tools that produce real-world impact. He said the retreat would create a practical and reflective environment where CIOs and technology leaders could exchange ideas, address leadership challenges, and explore smart solutions driving the future of energy management — from AI-powered operations to data-driven governance systems.
Banigbe disclosed that this year’s edition of the retreat will include technology executives from leading oil and gas firms, as well as regulators, innovators, and enterprise partners shaping Africa’s technology ecosystem. “We’re proud that this year’s retreat will bring together CIOs, innovators, regulators, and partners who are collectively shaping Africa’s digital future,” he said. “The goal is to strengthen collaboration between policy, technology, and leadership.”
He explained that the initiative aligns with CPAAT Consulting’s broader mission of promoting technology-driven enterprise development and building a strong community of thought leaders across sectors. The retreat, he said, will serve as a platform for leaders to connect, reflect, and innovate in ways that enhance productivity, resilience, and competitiveness within Nigeria’s economy.
Highlighting CPAAT’s broader contributions, Banigbe reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting digital transformation across industries. “At CPAAT Consulting, our mission has always been clear — to help businesses thrive through technology that works,” he said. “Whether it’s in infrastructure, digital access, or strategic consulting, our focus is on developing practical solutions that improve performance and security.”
He noted that the firm’s collaborations with enterprise clients have shown how strategic use of technology can streamline operations, minimize risk, and increase productivity. “The CIO Retreat reflects our philosophy — fostering a professional community where leaders don’t just learn but also build partnerships and generate actionable insights for long-term success,” he added.
Banigbe also called on Nigerian business and technology executives to take bold steps in adopting transformative tools and frameworks that align with sustainability and national development priorities. With the global energy sector rapidly shifting toward digital systems and automation, he said the retreat would play a vital role in preparing Nigerian leaders for the future.
“This retreat is our contribution to the transformation of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry,” he stated. “We’re building a platform where technology meets strategy — where ideas are turned into action for sustainable growth.”
Industry observers have praised CPAAT Consulting for taking the initiative, describing the retreat as a timely intervention that could position Nigeria’s energy industry for greater competitiveness in a rapidly digitalising global economy.
The CPAAT CIO Retreat 2025 will take place from November 7 to 9, 2025, and is expected to attract thought leaders, enterprise technology providers, and policymakers who share a commitment to advancing innovation through collaboration, strategy, and sustainability.
