Bayo Ojulari, CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), revealed that the company is set to restart crude oil drilling in Kolmani, a site straddling Gombe and Bauchi states.
He shared this update during an interview with BBC Hausa.
Ojulari confirmed that NNPCL has completed key evaluations and is now fully equipped to proceed with exploration activities in the Kolmani region, where earlier efforts had sparked significant interest from northern communities.
He stressed that this initiative aims to increase the nation’s oil production while also driving economic growth in the North.
According to him, the renewed operations in Kolmani are expected to attract new industries and breathe life into dormant ones, ultimately enhancing local development.
Ojulari also mentioned that NNPCL is making progress on vital gas infrastructure projects, with a particular focus on the Ajaokuta–Kano (AKK) pipeline.
He explained that the AKK pipeline will support industrial activity and help lower transport expenses throughout northern Nigeria.
Sharing personal background, he noted that he hails from Kwara, spent his childhood in Kaduna, and only began learning Yoruba at age 15 while studying in Zaria.
He urged Northerners to rally behind his leadership so that together, they can drive positive change in the region and across the country.
Addressing rumors of discord with the Dangote Group, Ojulari praised Aliko Dangote and gave assurances that NNPCL is committed to working closely with him to ensure Nigerians benefit from accessible and affordable fuel.
He emphasized that any reports of friction between NNPCL and the Dangote Group are now a thing of the past.
President Buhari had launched the Kolmani oil exploration project in November 2022, marking a landmark effort to expand Nigeria’s oil production beyond the Niger Delta.
Despite its promising start, the project faced delays due to technical issues and logistical setbacks.
source:dailypost.ng
African Energy Council