The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has called for the immediate resumption of oil exploration at the Kolmani oil field, located on the border between Bauchi and Gombe States, saying the project is crucial for strengthening Nigeria’s revenue base.
During an oversight visit to the site, RMAFC Chairman, Alhaji Muhammad Shehu, said the Commission had reviewed the current state of the project and would submit a detailed report to President Bola Tinubu. A key recommendation, he noted, is the remobilisation of operations and the continuation of exploration activities.
“Nigeria should rededicate its efforts to ensure that assets like this are fully exploited and converted into revenue—not only for the Federation but also for the people of Bauchi and Gombe States, the North-East region, and especially the host communities,” Shehu said.
Shehu recalled the nationwide excitement that greeted the Kolmani project when it was launched under former President Muhammadu Buhari, expressing optimism that the current administration would give it the attention it deserves.
He added that the Commission’s role includes documenting on-site findings and advising the President on strategies to increase inflows into the Federation Account, which is shared among the federal, state, and local governments.
Activities Stalled Since Mid‑2025
Leading the Bauchi State delegation, Commissioner for Natural Resources Development, Muhammad Bello, explained that exploration activities resumed between January and June 2025 before the operating company demobilised its rigs in July of the same year.
He said Governor Bala Mohammed later raised the issue with President Tinubu, alongside other North-East governors, and expressed hope that the RMAFC visit would help revive momentum around the project.
The delegation inspected one of the oil wells, associated facilities, and ongoing construction at the Oil and Gas Academy in Alkaleri. The Commission commended Governor Mohammed for establishing the institute, describing it as a forward‑looking investment in human capital.
Federal Government Shows Continued Interest
RMAFC Federal Commissioner representing Bauchi State, Hajiya Amina Gamawa, noted that the Federal Government’s funding of the training institute underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring the Kolmani project becomes fully operational and beneficial to surrounding communities.
She assured that the Commission would continue to monitor developments and push for progress on the project.
