By: Daure David
In a significant move to accelerate hydrocarbon development in Northern Nigeria, a joint delegation from Bauchi and Gombe States visited the Kolmani Oil Field to assess the progress of resumed exploration activities. The high-level team was led by Hon. M.M. Bello, Bauchi State Commissioner for Natural Resources, alongside Hon. M.S. Gamawa, Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, and Hon. Sanusi Ahmad Pindiga, Gombe State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources.
The visit marks a turning point following months of coordinated advocacy by both states, which successfully prompted the recommencement of drilling operations at the Kolmani site. The field, located along the Bauchi-Gombe border, is now under the operational management of African Oil Mover Limited (AOML).
The delegation engaged in detailed discussions with field operators, focusing on the pace of integration and operational scope.
– Officials emphasized the importance of transparent and regular progress reports to counter past delays and communication gaps.
– A renewed commitment was made to maintain strategic stakeholder engagement, ensuring that local communities and governments remain informed and involved.
Hon. Bello, who holds the traditional title of 1st Sadaukin Alkaleri, reaffirmed the states’ dedication to fostering a collaborative environment that supports both oversight and delivery. “This visit is not just symbolic it’s a statement of our resolve to see Kolmani thrive and deliver on its promise of regional prosperity,” he said.
The Kolmani Oil Field has long been viewed as a cornerstone of Northern Nigeria’s energy ambitions. After initial exploration efforts stalled due to logistical and technical challenges, recent developments—including intervention by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and AOML—have reignited optimism.
Stakeholders now hope that the Kolmani project will serve as a model for inland basin development, bringing economic opportunities, infrastructure, and energy security to the region.
With renewed drilling underway and inter-state collaboration at its peak, the Kolmani Oil Field is poised to become a beacon of progress in Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape. Both Bauchi and Gombe governments have pledged continued support and vigilance to ensure the project’s success.
