Collaborative UAS Initiative Safeguards Essential Nigerian Infrastructure
TEKEVER has announced a significant update on its collaborative mission with Aerial Robotix, aimed at monitoring oil pipelines in Nigeria for a prominent international oil and gas corporation.
Advancements in Infrastructure Protection
This initiative, which has been operational for two years, marks a pivotal advancement in delivering a safer, environmentally friendly, and economically viable solution for safeguarding critical infrastructure within the oil and gas industry, and also other sectors.
Notable Operational Metrics
Throughout its two years of operation, the team has successfully surveyed over 100,000 kilometers of land, accumulated more than 1,200 flight hours, and identified 672 critical points that necessitated immediate intervention to avert potential environmental and financial hazards.
Environmental Impact and Cost Efficiency
The mission has achieved a remarkable reduction in fuel consumption, utilizing 100,000% less fuel compared to conventional manned aerial inspections. Over the course of two years, the operation consumed less than 600 liters of fuel, in stark contrast to the estimated 600,000 liters that would have been required for manned aircraft over the same duration. This significant decrease in fuel usage considerably lowers carbon emissions and promotes lasting practices.
Enhanced Safety and Economic Benefits
Utilizing UAS technology not only proves to be more cost-effective by minimizing resource and personnel requirements but also results in significant savings for clients.The use of unmanned aerial systems enhances safety compared to conventional pipeline inspection methods that involve manned helicopters, which pose risks to human life.
Leadership Insights
Ricardo Mendes, CEO of TEKEVER, expressed, “We are thrilled to have collaborated with Aerial Robotix since 2022 to oversee oil pipeline monitoring in Nigeria for a major oil and gas entity. This mission has highlighted the benefits of employing UAS for critical infrastructure protection: it is safer, more environmentally friendly, and cost-efficient. We are eager to broaden this service with enhanced capabilities and extend our solutions to other organizations in need of similar surveillance.”
Community Impact and future Prospects
Tudor Moss, Accountable Manager at Aerial Robotix, remarked, “The mission has positively influenced the local economy. TEKEVER and Aerial Robotix have trained local pilots and maintenance technicians, fostering a skilled workforce in the area.”
“Considering the mission’s success,TEKEVER and Aerial Robotix are actively seeking new opportunities to enhance the UAS service capabilities,including the integration of additional sensors for detecting various points of interest,and also collaborating with other companies in the industry and beyond that require similar services.”