Tinubu Approves Key Licenses for Kolmani Oil Project to Boost Northern Nigeria’s Energy Sector

President Bola Tinubu has approved the issuance of crucial regulatory licenses for the Kolmani Integrated Development Project, a major oil exploration initiative located between Bauchi and Gombe states. This approval aims to unlock the full potential of Northern Nigeria’s energy resources and advance the federal government’s vision of using the energy sector as a catalyst for national development. The licenses pave the way for the resumption of oil drilling at the Kolmani River II oil field, a significant milestone since the project’s initial launch in November 2022.

Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), made the announcement during the commissioning of the permanent site for the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy in Alkaleri Local Government Area. According to the minister, this academy is part of a broader national strategy to strengthen human capital development in the energy sector, which is essential for ensuring the sustainability and technological advancement of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

The Federal Government’s backing, through institutions like the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), highlights a commitment to capacity-building and innovation. Lokpobiri expressed expectations that the newly established academy will collaborate closely with PTDF to generate skilled professionals who can drive the future of oil exploration and energy development in the region.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, recently confirmed that the company would resume drilling activities in the Kolmani field. This follows Tinubu’s directive and signifies a renewed federal push to fully develop Northern Nigeria’s oil reserves as part of a diversified national energy strategy.

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, expressed gratitude for the federal government’s support and emphasized the academy’s role in equipping citizens with skills for the oil sector. He noted that the institution would not only serve the state but contribute nationally by promoting technical education, innovation, and job creation in the petroleum industry.

Source: Channeltv