Minister Lokpobiri Joins Bala Mohammed to Launch Oil Academy in Bauchi
Bauchi State has taken a major step towards positioning itself as a key player in Nigeria’s energy future with the launch of a N6.7 billion Oil and Gas Academy.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held in Alkaleri Local Government Area and attended by Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri.
The academy, strategically located near the Kolmani oilfield site of a landmark oil discovery is expected to become a national hub for energy education, technical training, and workforce development.
The initiative reflects the state’s commitment to transforming its natural resource endowment into socio-economic growth while empowering young people with industry-relevant skills.
Speaking at the event, Governor Mohammed described the academy as a visionary response to Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape.
“This initiative was born out of a deep desire to equip our young people for the boundless opportunities and emerging challenges within the evolving energy sector,” the governor said. “It is a legacy project that will transform not only Bauchi but the entire region.”
He credited the genesis of the project to the discovery of oil in the Kolmani River region and expressed gratitude to former President Muhammadu Buhari for laying the groundwork.
He also acknowledged the continued support of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and Minister Lokpobiri, particularly for efforts to renew exploration licences and encourage further investment in the sector.
In his remarks, Senator Lokpobiri commended the Bauchi State Government for its foresight and pledged federal backing for the initiative.
He emphasised the importance of building not only physical infrastructure but also human capacity to meet the demands of the oil and gas industry.
“This is not just about building structures; it’s about building capacity and securing the future of Nigeria’s energy sector,” the minister stated.
Governor Mohammed further noted that the academy will serve as a pipeline for technical talent, fostering employment, innovation, and self-reliance.
He described the foundation laying as symbolic of the state’s determination to drive inclusive development through education and resource optimisation.
The ceremony attracted dignitaries from federal and state institutions, traditional rulers, energy sector stakeholders, and members of the host communities.
Governor Mohammed called on citizens and stakeholders to support the initiative, describing it as a catalyst for transforming Bauchi into a regional energy hub.
Once operational, the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy is expected to serve as a model for similar institutions nationwide and position Nigeria’s workforce for competitiveness in the global energy market.
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