🛢️ Kolmani Oil Fields: Gombe and Bauchi Governments Allay Fears Over Rig Relocation
Report from Kolmani.
By, Abdulwahab Muhammad Bauchí
In response to concerns raised by host communities, high-level officials from Gombe and Bauchi States conducted an on-the-spot assessment at the Kolmani Oil Fields on Saturday, 12th July 2025.
The delegation, led by the Honourable Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Gombe State, Sanusi Ahmad Pindiga, and his Bauchi State counterpart, Hon. Mohammed Bello Maiwada, Commissioner for Natural Resources, visited the site following reports that an oil drilling rig was being dismantled and moved out of the project area.
The communities expressed fear that this might signal a suspension or relocation of ongoing oil exploration activities away from the Kolmani axis.
✅ Assurance from Operators
At the site, the Field Base Manager of AOML alongside a representative from NNPCL received the delegation. They dismissed rumours of project suspension, clarifying that the rig being removed had completed its specific job and was no longer needed.
"The rig has served its purpose. A larger rig is now required to continue re-entry operations into wells KR-2, KR-3, and KR-4," the team explained.
The delegation was conducted around the project area and confirmed that operations were proceeding smoothly.
🤝 Government Reassurance
In separate remarks, both Commissioners commended the level of engagement and transparency by the field operators. They called for deeper consultation with stakeholders moving forward, particularly the host communities who are directly impacted.
"We are here as representatives of the people and the government. We urge everyone to remain calm. Both state governments are committed to ensuring continued partnership and mutual trust in the Kolmani project," they stated.
The visit underscores the importance of transparent communication, community trust, and inter-governmental cooperation in the success of strategic national projects such as Kolmani.
End.