The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has pledged to accelerate plans to restart oil exploration in Borno State while addressing delays in the upgrade of the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant.
The commitment followed a meeting between the company’s top officials, led by its Board Chairman, Ahmadu Musa Kida, and Governor Babagana Zulum in Maiduguri on Thursday.
Discussions centred on unlocking the oil potential of the Borno Basin and resolving outstanding issues affecting the completion of the emergency power facility, which is expected to strengthen electricity supply in the state.
Zulum described the resumption of oil exploration as a major economic opportunity for Borno, noting that the state’s hydrocarbon prospects and strategic location, with borders adjoining three countries, could make it an attractive destination for investors.
The governor expressed hope that renewed exploration would lead to the discovery and development of oil resources, attract fresh investments, create economic opportunities and accelerate development across the state.
He also raised concerns about the prolonged delay in upgrading the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant, describing the project as essential to improving electricity access for residents and businesses.
According to the governor, the necessary materials had been available at the project site for about two years, yet the upgrade remained unfinished.
Zulum called on the NNPCL leadership to intervene and remove the obstacles preventing the project’s completion, stressing that reliable electricity was crucial to economic activities, effective public service delivery and the recovery of Maiduguri and surrounding communities.
In his response, Kida assured the governor that the company was prepared to expedite the return of oil exploration activities in the Borno Basin. He also promised to address the challenges responsible for the delay in completing the power plant upgrade.
The NNPCL chairman commended Zulum for his sustained support and efforts to promote an investment-friendly environment and advance energy development in the state.
Those present at the meeting included Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur, Secretary to the State Government Bukar Tijani, Acting Chief of Staff Dr Babagana Mallumbe and other senior government officials.
The NNPCL delegation also included Udy Ntia, Executive Vice President, Upstream, and Olalekon Ogunleye, Executive Vice President, Gas, Power and New Energy.
