President Bola Tinubu has approved the issuance of critical regulatory licences for the Kolmani Integrated Development Project – a multibillion-dollar oil exploration venture located on the Bauchi-Gombe border.

The approval was announced during the groundbreaking ceremony for the permanent site of the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy (BOGAA) in Alkaleri Local Government Area.

According to a statement released on Sunday by Senator Heineken Lokpobiri’s media aide, Nneamaka Okafor, the move aligns with Tinubu’s strategy to revitalise the oil and gas sector.

“Activating key national facilities that support our energy transition remains a core priority. That’s why President Tinubu authorised the issuance of outstanding regulatory approvals for the Kolmani project,” the statement said.

Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), stated that Bauchi’s embrace of the initiative through BOGAA marks a significant step in building local capacity for the sector.

“With its vast fossil reserves, Nigeria must invest in human capital and technology. The academy is expected to work closely with the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to drive this vision,” he said.

The Kolmani Integrated Development Project was first inaugurated in November 2022, signalling the start of oil exploration in Northern Nigeria. It is situated in the Kolmani River II oil field, which straddles Bauchi and Gombe States.

Last week, NNPC Limited’s Group Chief Executive, Bayo Ojulari, announced that drilling operations at Kolmani would soon resume.

Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, commended the Federal Government for its support and pledged his administration’s commitment to ensuring the academy’s success.

“This institution will serve as a hub for innovation and skills development—not just for Bauchi but for the entire country,” the governor said.