NNPC GCEO Bayo Ojulari Reaffirms Oil Exploration Plans in Northern Nigeria
The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Bayo Ojulari, has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continuing oil exploration in Nigeria’s northern region.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Ojulari confirmed that drilling activities will persist at the Kolmani Integrated Development Project, located at the boundary between Bauchi and Gombe states. The initiative was initially launched by former President Muhammadu Buhari in November 2022, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy exploration efforts beyond the traditional Niger Delta region.
“We will continue the projects in Kolmani and other parts of the north,” Ojulari stated, emphasising NNPC’s strategic focus on diversifying oil exploration zones.
In addition to Kolmani, Ojulari noted that the company remains committed to the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project. According to him, once completed, the project will revitalize dormant industries and stimulate the birth of new businesses across northern Nigeria.
“After completing the projects, companies that were closed will surely reopen and new companies will spring up too,” he explained. “We will continue from next month and people will start witnessing the commencement of the project, by God’s will.”
Ojulari disclosed that oil and gas revenues will be channeled into sustaining these infrastructure projects. However, he acknowledged the challenges posed by fluctuating global oil prices, which may affect projected earnings.
On the issue of petrol prices, Ojulari offered reassurance to Nigerians, explaining that pump prices are expected to drop once the country begins procuring petroleum at lower costs. He clarified that the current high prices are a result of oil marketers purchasing their stock at peak prices.
Turning to the Dangote Refinery, Ojulari lauded its achievements and confirmed ongoing collaboration between NNPC and the Dangote Group. Addressing speculation of a rift, he revealed that a recent meeting with Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, had led to a mutual agreement to work together moving forward.
“We are together, and Nigerians will benefit from our cooperation,” Ojulari concluded.
