Heineken Lokpobiri, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, has reaffirmed that oil and gas still remain the dominant revenue sources across the globe.
Speaking during the groundbreaking of the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy in Alkaleri, Lokpobiri urged Nigerians to prioritise investment in energy education and capacity building.
“There is no country in the world today reducing its investment in oil and gas,” the minister said, highlighting that petroleum resources still fund critical infrastructure globally.
Kolmani Project Receives Presidential Backing
Additionally, the minister revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the renewal of all Kolmani field licences, enabling the stalled project to proceed.
Lokpobiri credited industry expert Bala Wunti for initiating the intervention that reopened Kolmani’s prospects.
“When I took office, I was told Kolmani’s licence had expired. Bala Wunti approached me, and I took it to President Tinubu who directed that all the licences be renewed which we have done,” Lokpobiri said.
Academy to Bridge Industry Skills Gap
Lokpobiri described the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy as a “strategic institution” set to train industry-ready professionals. Also, he emphasised that manpower development is cruy to the success of oil production and refining in Bauchi, especially as the Federal Government intensifies exploration activities in the Kolmani Basin.
FG Endorses Bauchi’s Energy Vision
The minister pledged full Federal Government support for Governor Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir’s vision of establishing the academy.
He noted that the initiative aligns with national energy security goals and broader capacity development strategies.
Governor Hails Federal Support, Buhari’s Legacy
Governor Abdulkadir expressed gratitude to Lokpobiri and the Federal Government, calling the groundbreaking a major milestone in Bauchi’s energy journey.
He further linked the academy’s vision to Kolmani’s historic oil discovery, crediting former President Buhari for realising the transformative project.
“This academy will be a centre of excellence in energy education. It is designed to equip our youth with technical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape,” the governor said.
Additionally, Abdulkadir praised Lokpobiri’s pledge to back the Kolmani development, calling it clear evidence of strong collaboration between the Federal Government and the state in advancing the petroleum sector
Industry Stakeholders Eye Indigenous Growth
The academy’s launch aligns with Nigeria’s push for local capacity, as oil prices fluctuate and refining efforts steadily advance
As reforms deepen, Bauchi’s academy and Kolmani’s revival could transform the region into a dynamic energy innovation hub.