By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a compelling address at the Sierra Leone Institution of Engineers’ (SLIE) certification ceremony on Wednesday, June 24, 2024, NP Group Executive Chairman, Ing. Dr. Mohamed Babatunde Cole, underscored the critical role of innovation and sustainable practices in engineering. He emphasized the necessity of continued professional development and collaboration, particularly in light of technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence.
The NP Group Executive Chairman stressed that engineering is fundamental to the sustainable progress of any country, encouraging engineers to integrate knowledge from other disciplines to enhance their impact. He highlighted how engineering plays a pivotal role in improving the quality of life by using knowledge, skills, and creativity to design, build, and maintain essential systems and technologies. According to him, the incorporation of innovative ideas could enhance productivity, sustainability, efficiency, and effectiveness in service delivery.
Dr. Cole made these remarks during a four-day symposium organized by the Sierra Leone Institution of Engineers (SLIE) at the New Brookfields Hotel, Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown. The event, themed: “Contemporary Approaches to Engineering Education and Practices,” brought together engineers from across Sub-Saharan Africa, including Liberia, The Gambia, Kenya, and other anglophone countries.
The symposium, held every four years, aims to induct new members into the engineering profession and foster discussions on the latest trends and practices in engineering. This year’s event highlighted the significant impact of engineering on societal development and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation within the field.
Dr. Cole’s views reflect the core principles of NP (SL) Ltd, Sierra Leone’s leading petroleum importing and marketing company. Under his leadership, NP (SL) Ltd has consistently prioritized innovation and sustainability, integrating these values into its operations to provide top-tier service to its esteemed customers across the nation.
Recently, NP (SL) Ltd launched state-of-the-art mobile fuel tanks designed to streamline refueling operations. These advanced tanks, each with a 10,000-liter capacity, are housed in containers and equipped with sophisticated safety and dispensing technology. Key features include mobile refueling capability, advanced safety systems with explosion-proof technology, built-in fire suppression mechanisms, and real-time monitoring through a tank gauging system.
Additionally, NP (SL) Ltd has introduced the Access and Energy Pass Card as part of its efforts to modernize fueling experiences and promote a cashless economy. This smart card offers both online and offline usability, high-security features, and instant SMS notifications after every transaction. Customers can recharge their cards at designated stations or the Head Office and reverse transactions if needed. The card integrates seamlessly with customers’ mobile numbers, providing real-time transaction updates and facilitating direct credits to station owners’ bank accounts.
This initiative, aptly named “FUBU” (For Us, By Us), reflects NP’s commitment to embracing a cashless future and addressing stakeholder concerns. The Access and Energy Pass Card allows customers to fuel their vehicles independently, eliminating the need for pump attendants and enhancing convenience.
NP (SL) Ltd’s dedication to innovation is also evident in its long-standing NP Smart Card system. This cashless payment method, equipped with a memory chip, allows customers to pre-load funds and purchase fuel without carrying physical cash. The card’s widespread use across various filling stations in the country has significantly enhanced transaction security and convenience.
Furthermore, NP (SL) Ltd is retailing the environmentally friendly NP Gas, a high-performance cooking device that uses cleaner fuel. This product, along with the company’s calibrated pumping machines and digitized storage tanks, highlights NP’s commitment to providing safe, efficient, and sustainable energy solutions.
Dr. Cole’s address at the certification ceremony, emphasizing innovation and sustainability, mirrors the practical operations of NP (SL) Ltd. The company’s forward-thinking strategies and innovative marketing approaches have significantly impacted Sierra Leone’s petroleum industry, enhancing efficiency, transparency and customer satisfaction.
