Anambra Oil Tycoon To Launch ₦3 Billion AI Diagnostic Centre In Awka.
By Chinaza Osigwe
Renowned oil magnate and engineer, Mr. Barth Nwibe, is set to commission a ₦3 billion artificial intelligence-powered diagnostic centre in Awka, Anambra State, as part of efforts to revolutionize the state’s healthcare system and give back to society.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, the founder of SEGOFS Energy recounted his journey from modest beginnings in Igbo-Ukwu, Aguata Local Government Area, to building what he described as Nigeria’s most independent indigenous oilfield services firm. Nwibe shared that his early years were marked by discipline and a strong emphasis on education, which laid the groundwork for his professional success.
After excelling at Christ the King College, Onitsha, and earning a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nwibe embarked on a remarkable career across top oil firms such as Halliburton, Schlumberger, Shell, and Baker Hughes. Inspired by Nigeria’s Local Content Policy, he founded SEGOFS Energy in 2006, which now delivers highly technical upstream services independently—without reliance on foreign giants.
“We design our systems, select our technologies, and execute services ourselves,” Nwibe stated, underscoring SEGOFS’ unique position in the industry. He also revealed the firm’s significant role in training and employing young Nigerian engineers.
Despite regulatory and security challenges, SEGOFS has remained resilient. Nwibe noted the high cost of operations due to insecurity and Nigeria’s erratic policy environment, yet remains optimistic about the firm’s role in driving local expertise and innovation.
Shifting focus to healthcare, Nwibe explained that the loss of his mother—following delayed diagnosis of a stroke—prompted him to invest in the AI diagnostic facility. “If we had proper diagnostic tools then, my mother’s life could’ve been saved,” he said emotionally.
The soon-to-be-completed centre, built in partnership with Apex Hospital, is expected to provide early and accurate diagnosis for a range of medical conditions. It is already training professionals from Chukwu
