By DAYO ADESULU
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has officially announced its plans to resume oil drilling in northern Nigeria. This major development was confirmed by the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Bayo Ojulari, during an interview with BBC News Hausa on Monday. The move marks a renewed commitment by the national oil firm to explore and develop the region’s hydrocarbon potential, especially in the Kolmani area along the Bauchi-Gombe border.
This development on oil drilling in northern Nigeria comes over two years after the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari launched crude oil drilling in the North—a project that was eventually suspended without explanation.
NNPC Reaffirms Commitment to Kolmani Oil Drilling Project
Ojulari, who recently assumed leadership of NNPC, assured northern residents that the project will resume soon. He emphasized that the oil drilling in northern Nigeria beginning at Kolmani and surrounding regions would continue. According to him, the completion of the Ajaokuta-Kano gas pipeline will also follow, enhancing the country’s energy distribution network.
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“We will continue with the oil drilling in Kolmani and other places. After the oil drilling, we will also ensure that we complete the gas pipeline from Ajaokuta to Kano,” Ojulari stated.
He added that these projects will stimulate economic growth by enabling the reopening of previously closed businesses and attracting new investments to the region. “This will bring benefits to the region, which will lead to everyone benefiting because wealth will increase,” Ojulari added.
Oil Drilling in Northern Nigeria: A Revival of the Buhari-Era Vision
It can be recalled that in November 2022, former President Buhari flagged off the Kolmani oil drilling project in the northeast. The symbolic event marked the first official oil drilling in northern Nigeria. Following this, plans were announced to begin similar operations in Nasarawa State by March 2023. However, that initiative did not progress, leaving citizens demanding accountability.
Now, under Ojulari’s leadership, NNPC appears determined to bring these visions to fruition. The company’s renewed drive is expected to reinvigorate the oil drilling agenda and potentially position the North as a key oil-producing region, similar to the Niger Delta.
Ojulari Responds to Northerners, Calls for Support
Speaking on public reaction to his appointment, Ojulari, himself a northerner, urged residents of the region to support him and the company’s renewed energy agenda. He asked for cooperation and prayers from all Nigerians, stating that their unity and support were essential for success.
His statements seemed to address concerns that followed his appointment, particularly from individuals who felt the North was being sidelined in energy leadership. However, Ojulari’s proactive engagement may help calm such sentiments.
NNPC-Dangote Rift: Peace and Collaboration in the Pipeline
Ojulari also revealed that he has begun rebuilding trust between NNPC and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. Tensions had previously escalated between both organizations, particularly over the naira-for-crude deal, which was suspended under former GCEO Mele Kyari.
“We sat down and talked about the conflict. From now on, we will work together to achieve progress as needed,” he said, referring to discussions with Aliko Dangote.
Ojulari stressed that NNPC and Dangote must collaborate to ensure energy security for Nigerians. “If there is any problem or mistake, we will understand each other and fix it, but there will be no more disputes between NNPC and Dangote refinery,” he assured.
The reconciliation comes after a period of strained relations marked by competition over crude supply. However, industry experts believe the improved ties could lead to a more stable fuel distribution system across Nigeria.
Addressing Oil Revenue and Global Price Fluctuations
Ojulari also spoke on the financial implications of global oil price fluctuations. He noted that Nigeria’s projected revenue had been impacted by a global crash in crude prices. The national budget had been based on higher oil revenue expectations.
Nonetheless, the GCEO expressed optimism. He emphasized that cost reduction in oil drilling in northern Nigeria would enable the country to generate sufficient income from its hydrocarbon resources.
“If we can reduce the operation costs, it is possible that the income we will get from selling oil and gas will be enough for us,” he explained.
Conclusion: A New Era for Oil Drilling in Northern Nigeria
The resumption of oil drilling in northern Nigeria under Bayo Ojulari’s leadership signals a new chapter in the country’s energy development. With an emphasis on regional development, industrial revival, and collaboration with the private sector, the NNPC appears poised to drive progress both in the North and nationwide.
Residents, stakeholders, and industry observers now await the practical rollout of these promises, hoping that the renewed vision will translate into lasting economic and energy gains.
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