The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has confirmed it will resume crude oil drilling at the Kolmani oil field, which lies between Bauchi and Gombe States. This marks the revival of activity at the site after nearly two years of dormancy.
NNPCL Signals New Phase for Kolmani Project
In an interview with the BBC on Monday, Bayo Ojulari, NNPCL’s newly appointed Group Chief Executive Officer, revealed that preparations are already underway. According to him, the company is eager to continue a project that was originally launched under former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“We will resume operations in Kolmani and expand into other areas,” Ojulari stated. “Additionally, we are focused on completing the Ajaokuta–Kano gas pipeline.”
Economic Revival Tied to Energy Projects
Ojulari noted that these developments could reactivate previously closed businesses and attract new ventures. As a result, they would drive economic growth across the northern region. He also emphasized that the benefits would extend nationwide through increased wealth generation.
Importantly, this move is part of NNPCL’s broader goal to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic energy supply and reduce dependence on imported fuel.
Northern Nigeria Steps into the Oil Spotlight
Until recently, the southern regions of Nigeria dominated the oil and gas industry. However, Ojulari believes Kolmani offers the North a real opportunity to become a major stakeholder.
“The region has waited a long time for this moment,” he said. “Now, we’re ready to deliver both oil and economic transformation.”
Kolmani: A Landmark Discovery
In 2019, NNPCL announced a breakthrough at Kolmani, discovering sweet crude, gas, and condensates after drilling to a depth of 13,701 feet. This success led to the creation of the Kolmani Integrated Development Project, Nigeria’s first major oil project in the North.
Consequently, the Kolmani field became a symbol of energy diversification in the country.
Africa’s Offshore Drilling Push
Meanwhile, Nigeria is also set to play a leading role in Africa’s deepwater oil expansion. Between 2026 and 2027, the country plans to launch ten new offshore projects in collaboration with the Ivory Coast and Mozambique. These projects aim to increase Africa’s contribution to the global oil market.
Idle Oil Assets Could Get a Lifeline
Beyond Kolmani, NNPCL is exploring new strategies to revive dormant fields. According to Udobong Ntia, NNPCL’s Executive Vice President of Upstream, the company will rely on third-party partnerships to unlock the full potential of idle or underutilized assets.
Such partnerships, he explained, could enhance production, generate revenue, and ensure long-term energy security.