FG Moves To Revive Stalled Kolmani Oil Exploration

The Federal Government has renewed efforts to restart exploration activities at the Kolmani Oil Field in Bauchi State, with the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission pledging to support moves to get the project back on track.

The RMAFC Chairman, Muhammad Bello, disclosed this on Monday during a verification visit to the oil field, where the commission assessed the current state of the project and explored ways of facilitating its continuation.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Bello described the Kolmani project as a strategic development with the potential to benefit Bauchi State, the North-East and the wider Nigerian economy.

He said the commission was determined to restore the momentum of the project, which began in 2023, adding that the assessment would enable it to make recommendations to the relevant authorities on the way forward.

Bello also said President Bola Tinubu remained interested in the project and had reportedly assured the governors of Bauchi and Gombe states that efforts would be made to mobilise resources for the continuation of the exploration.

The RMAFC chairman explained that the commission would continue monitoring the project through its relevant committees, particularly those responsible for oil and gas matters.

During the visit, Bello also inspected the ongoing construction of the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy and commended the state government for establishing an institution capable of producing skilled manpower for the petroleum sector.

He noted that the academy could provide the human resources required once oil exploration and related activities at Kolmani become fully operational.

The Bauchi State Commissioner for Natural Resources, Maiwada Bello, revealed that exploration activities at the site had stopped around July 2025. He said the state government was alerted by members of the host community that the technical company handling the project had begun demobilising from the site.

According to the commissioner, the state government subsequently formed a joint team with the local government authorities and engaged the technical company to determine why activities had been suspended.

Maiwada expressed optimism that the RMAFC visit could signal a fresh push towards restarting operations at the oil field. He added that the Bauchi State Government remained prepared to provide the manpower and other necessary support to facilitate the project’s progress.

The renewed attention on the Kolmani Oil Field is expected to increase pressure for the stalled exploration activities to resume, particularly amid expectations that the project could contribute to economic development, employment and energy-sector growth in the region.