By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and officials from Bauchi and Gombe states have expressed differing opinions regarding the status of oil exploration at the Kolmani Integrated Oil Field, located in Barambu village, Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
Government officials from the two states have criticized the lack of progress on the project, over two years after its inauguration by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022. The Kolmani oil field, which spans Oil Prospecting Licenses (OPL) 809 and 810, was expected to mark a new chapter in Nigeria’s oil exploration.
States Call for Action
Bauchi’s Commissioner for Natural Resources and Solid Minerals, Mohammed Bello, and Gombe’s Commissioner of Energy and Solid Minerals, Sanusi Pindiga, voiced concerns over the slow pace of activities. They urged NNPCL to expedite crude oil lifting operations for the benefit of Nigerians.
Pindiga highlighted that recent visits to the project site by Sterling Global, a contractor for the field, had rekindled hopes for the commencement of drilling. He also noted significant progress in establishing a training academy for local residents to acquire the skills needed for oil exploration.
“We remain optimistic that drilling will commence soon, as our governors are working tirelessly to ensure this project benefits our people,” Pindiga stated.
Gombe’s Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Misilli, emphasized the need for urgency, stating that the governors had engaged with NNPCL leadership to push for progress. “If NNPCL says work is ongoing, they should demonstrate visible efforts. Our role as host communities is to ensure accountability,” Misilli said.
NNPCL Denies Allegations of Neglect
Responding to the concerns, NNPCL spokesperson Femi Soneye denied any abandonment of the Kolmani oil project or other exploration activities in Northern Nigeria.
“Far from halting efforts, NNPC Ltd is expanding the scope of its exploration activities to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s inland basins,” Soneye said in a statement.
He outlined ongoing projects, including:
Wadi-2 Well (OPL 732, Chad Basin, Borno State): Spudded in November 2023, reaching a depth of 12,050 feet by June 2024, with post-drilling tests underway.
Ebenyi-1 Well (OPL 826, Middle Benue Trough, Nasarawa State): Drilling began in July 2023, aiming for a total depth of 14,250 feet, with equipment upgrades ongoing.
Soneye stressed that significant infrastructure developments were being implemented to advance field operations and enhance Nigeria’s OPEC quota.
“NNPC Ltd remains committed to energy security, economic growth, and wealth creation for all Nigerians. The exploration of hydrocarbon resources in the North is an ongoing reality and a testament to our dedication to national prosperity,” he added.
Looking Ahead
The Kolmani oil field, described as a game-changer for Nigeria’s petroleum industry, has yet to deliver on its promise. With state governments pressing for action and NNPCL reaffirming its commitment, all eyes are on the field’s development as a potential cornerstone for the nation’s energy and economic future.
While challenges persist, stakeholders remain hopeful that collaboration and accountability will pave the way for the project’s success.
