If anybody is interested, I've got a single python script that works without needing to install any of the FriendlyElec software. Just enabled i2c0, python and a few dependencies.
You can find the code on: https://github.com/crouchingtigerhiddenadam/nano-hat-oled-armbian
The screen turns off after 15 seconds of inactivity to reduce burn-in, variable update rates, splash screen, date/time screen, computer stats screen and a shutdown screen.