President Tinubu Approves Resumption of Oil Exploration in Bauchi and Gombe States
Three Years After Initial Launch, Kolmani Project Gets Green Light
President Bola Tinubu has authorized the restart of oil exploration activities in Bauchi and Gombe States, marking a significant development for Nigeria’s energy sector. This decision comes three years after former President Muhammadu Buhari inaugurated the Kolmani Integrated Development Project in November 2022.
Critical Regulatory Approvals Granted
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), confirmed that President Tinubu has approved all outstanding regulatory licenses needed to advance the Kolmani project. The oil field, located in the Kolmani River II area along the Bauchi-Gombe border, represents Northern Nigeria’s first major oil exploration initiative.
The announcement follows last week’s disclosure by NNPC Limited Group Chief Executive Bayo Ojulari about plans to resume drilling operations in the region.
Strategic Focus on Energy Sector Development
Minister Lokpobiri made the announcement during the commissioning of the permanent site of the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy in Alkaleri Local Government Area. He emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s oil sector as a driver of national prosperity.
“The President’s vision remains focused on harnessing the full potential of the energy sector,” Lokpobiri stated. “With Bauchi State embracing this drive through the establishment of the academy, the state is positioning itself as a strategic contributor to the human capital development required to power the sector.”
Partnerships for Sustainable Growth
The minister highlighted the importance of collaboration between the new academy and the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to ensure long-term sector sustainability. “Given our vast fossil fuel reserves, the Federal Government continues to champion advancements in human capacity and technology,” he added.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed welcomed the federal government’s support, stating: “This institution will serve as a foundation for skill acquisition and innovation that will benefit not just Bauchi State but the entire nation.”
The resumption of oil exploration in Northern Nigeria represents a significant milestone in the country’s energy diversification efforts and economic development strategy.
Full credit to the original publisher: The Syndicate