In a renewed bid to boost Nigeria’s oil output and stimulate regional development, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) is set to resume crude oil exploration in the Kolmani River region, located between Gombe and Bauchi states. The announcement was made by the Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Bayo Ojulari, during an interview with BBC Hausa.
Ojulari revealed that all technical assessments and logistical arrangements have been finalized, positioning NNPCL to restart activities at the Kolmani oilfields which had previously raised hopes for economic transformation in Northern Nigeria.
“NNPCL is ready to resume oil drilling in Kolmani. We have completed critical assessments and are set to move forward,” he confirmed.
The Kolmani project, initially launched in 2022 by then-President Muhammadu Buhari, marked a historic milestone as the first significant crude discovery outside the traditional Niger Delta basin. However, due to operational setbacks, the project was stalled. Now, under renewed leadership and focus, NNPCL is aiming to bring the project back to life.
Ojulari stressed that the resumed exploration is not merely an energy initiative, but a strategic step toward industrial revitalization in the North.
“This effort will bring progress to the North, attract new industries, and revive existing ones. We are committed to unlocking the economic potential of the region through energy infrastructure,” he said.
He further emphasized NNPCL’s broader plans to complement oil exploration with robust gas infrastructure. This includes the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas pipeline, a multi-billion-naira project aimed at delivering natural gas to Northern industries and power stations, thereby reducing production and transportation costs across the region.
Speaking from a personal standpoint, Ojulari, who hails from Kwara State and grew up in Kaduna, appealed for support from Northerners in executing these projects.
“I want the people of the North to support me in this job so that together, we can bring development to the region and Nigeria as a whole,” he added.
Addressing speculations about a rift between NNPCL and the Dangote Group, Ojulari dismissed the notion and lauded Aliko Dangote as a national asset. He affirmed that both parties are committed to working together to ensure access to affordable fuel for Nigerians.
“You will not hear of any crisis between NNPCL and Dangote again. We are united in our goal to make petroleum products available and affordable,” Ojulari assured.
Energy analysts see the resumption of Kolmani oil exploration as a crucial step for diversifying Nigeria’s crude production base, reducing dependence on the volatile Niger Delta, and expanding revenue opportunities for the federation. They also note that success in the Kolmani field could unlock further onshore prospects across Northern Nigeria.
In the broader context, NNPCL’s revitalization of dormant assets and commitment to gas infrastructure aligns with Nigeria’s energy transition goals, aiming to reduce emissions, attract foreign investment, and meet growing domestic energy demands.
As Ojulari takes the reins of the NNPCL leadership, stakeholders are watching closely to see whether his vision for industrial synergy and inclusive energy growth will materialize.