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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has planned to recommence crude oil drilling operations at the Kolmani oil field, situated along the Bauchi-Gombe state border. This development marks a return to activity at the site following almost two years of dormancy.
This update was shared by Bayo Ojulari, the newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, during an interview with the BBC on Monday.
Ojulari said that preparations are in progress to relaunch the project, which was originally initiated under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Ojulari: “We will continue to work with the government in Kolmani and other areas. Besides the oil drilling work, we will also ensure that we complete the gas pipeline project from Ajaokuta to Kano.
“The projects would allow the previously closed businesses to be reopened so that they could continue to operate and open new ones.
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“This will create benefits in the region, which will lead to the benefit of everyone because the wealth will grow. We have to go back and carry on with this work.”
Back in 2019, the NNPC reported the discovery of sweet crude, natural gas, and condensates at the Kolmani field after drilling to a depth of 13,701 feet.
This milestone represented the first significant oil discovery in Northern Nigeria and laid the foundation for the Kolmani Integrated Development Project.
Ojulari highlighted that NNPC is now fully prepared to revive the initiative, which is expected to significantly boost national oil output and stimulate fresh economic opportunities in the North.
The move to restart drilling in the region comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic difficulties. It also aligns with broader national strategies aimed at increasing domestic crude oil production and enhancing energy security, the GCEO said.
According to him, local communities view the project as a vital step towards establishing the North as a serious player in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, traditionally dominated by the South.
