ABUJA – Energy activity in Northern Nigeria is poised for a restart. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) confirmed it will resume its Northern Nigeria drilling project in June. This significant crude oil operation is situated in the Kolmani field, on the boundary of Bauchi and Gombe states. Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari announced the timeline during a BBC Hausa Service interview.
Kolmani Field & AKK Pipeline: Key Focus Areas
Mr. Ojulari stressed the economic importance of both the Kolmani field drilling and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project. “NNPC will continue oil drilling in the Kolmani field,” Ojulari affirmed, adding, “[NNPC] will continue the work on the AKK gas pipeline from Ajaokuta to Kaduna to Kano.” This 614-kilometre AKK pipeline aims to transport vital natural gas resources across regions, potentially fueling industrial growth.
The GCEO indicated tangible progress is imminent. “By next month, people will begin to see. We will start work on the AKK gas pipeline and the Kolmani, Insha Allah,” he stated, suggesting activity will soon be visible.
Moving Forward: NNPC and Dangote Refinery Cooperation
In another significant development, Mr. Ojulari confirmed that NNPC Ltd and the Dangote refinery have resolved past disagreements. “We, as Nigerians, must hail Dangote’s courageous efforts… We have addressed the feud between the NNPC and the Dangote Refinery,” Ojulari said, signalling a shift towards partnership.
This cooperation is expected to benefit Nigeria’s fuel supply chain. “Very soon, people will start seeing the impact. We are cooperating, and better days are ahead,” Ojulari remarked, linking this partnership to the positive momentum including the Northern Nigeria drilling restart.
Smoother Fuel Supply Anticipated
Looking ahead, the NNPC chief expressed optimism about fuel availability from the domestic refinery. He noted that marketers should soon be able to purchase fuel directly. “If there are any obstacles, we will address them,” Ojulari assured. “It won’t be in the news anymore that NNPC and Dangote are fighting; now, we are working together for the interests of Nigerians.”
By Abiodun Labi
