Shehu Umar Buba, the representative for Bauchi South Senatorial District, recently shared insights regarding the resumption of oil exploration at the Kolmani Oil well situated on the boundary between Bauchi and Gombe States by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).Â
Buba, who also serves as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Security and Intelligence, addressed questions from journalists in Bauchi.
Highlighting the significance of the Kolmani oil exploration for stakeholders in Bauchi and Gombe States, Buba emphasized its importance.
He recounted that, upon their Senate inauguration, the Kolmani oil matter was a top priority for him.
After reaching out to key stakeholders, including NNPC’s Group Managing Director Mele Kyari, National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and lawmakers from the affected states, a meeting with Kyari ensued.
During the meeting, Buba sought clarification on the prolonged inactivity at the Kolmani oil wells since the groundbreaking ceremony by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Kyari provided detailed and convincing explanations, assuring that NNPC had awarded a contract to an Indian firm, currently in the country making preparations.
According to Buba, Kyari gave a commitment that the activities at the Kolmani oil well would resume fully within the month of February.
The assurance came after a meeting held in October, and Buba expressed the vigilance of stakeholders, noting that if the resumption did not occur as promised, the matter would be brought up in the Senate and made public.
In essence, Buba highlighted the collaborative efforts with NNPC to address concerns and ensure the timely resumption of oil exploration activities at the Kolmani Oil well, underscoring its economic and strategic significance for the region.
