Zulum asks Nigeria to restart oil searches in Borno

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has called on the Federal Government to revive oil exploration in Magumeri and Gubio Local Government Areas, arguing that resource development could support reconstruction and economic recovery in the North-East. Zulum made the appeal on Saturday at the 13th regular meeting of the North-East Governors’ Forum, held at the Government House in Maiduguri. The two-day meeting brought together governors from the six states to discuss regional development, security and economic cooperation.

In his address, the governor welcomed renewed efforts to restart exploration at the Kolmani oil field in Bauchi State. He said progress at Kolmani represented more than an investment in oil and gas, with the potential to create employment, stimulate infrastructure development and expand revenue for states and host communities. He urged the Federal Government to extend that momentum to Borno’s prospective oil areas, particularly Magumeri and Gubio, where earlier exploration activities had stalled.

Zulum said responsible development of natural resources could complement reconstruction efforts and create sustainable opportunities for the region’s growing population. The governor also linked renewed exploration in Kolmani and the Lake Chad Basin to wider economic diversification. He said support for projects in the region could create jobs and help strengthen local economies, while complementing military operations and development efforts.

Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who also spoke at the meeting, highlighted regional cooperation in education and health. He cited the North-East Education Council and initiatives addressing Almajiri and out-of-school children, as well as a regional health platform established by the states’ health commissioners in 2024. Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and Yahaya attended the meeting.

Bauchi and Yobe were represented by their deputy governors.