The Federal Government has officially commenced construction of the permanent site for the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy, Alkaleri (BOGAA), marking a significant step toward enhancing human capital development in Nigeria’s energy sector.
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), performed the groundbreaking ceremony over the weekend, commending the Bauchi State Government for initiating the academy in alignment with national objectives.
According to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, the Minister reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to maximize all available oil production platforms and fast-track key projects, including the Kolmani Integrated Development Projects.
“Our goal is to ensure that every productive oil platform contributes meaningfully to national development,” Lokpobiri said, emphasizing the Tinubu administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape into a catalyst for industrialization, employment, and economic growth.
He lauded the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy as a visionary investment that will train the skilled workforce needed to sustain and expand the oil and gas industry. The Minister also acknowledged the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) for its ongoing contributions to technological and human capacity building, expressing optimism for a strong collaboration between PTDF and BOGAA to drive sustainable development.
In his remarks, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, thanked the Federal Government for its support, especially the release of N17 billion to boost oil exploration activities and fund the academy’s construction. Of this amount, N6 billion has been allocated specifically for the academy project.
Describing the institution as a “hub for skills development and innovation,” Governor Mohammed stressed that the academy will not only serve Bauchi but will have far-reaching benefits for the entire country by equipping youths with vocational and technical expertise.
He called on host communities to cooperate with contractors and stakeholders to ensure smooth and timely execution of the project.
The Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy was conceptualized in 2021 following the discovery of commercial quantities of oil and gas in the Kolmani River region. The academy is expected to provide critical training to support ongoing exploration and future operations, while also empowering young Nigerians to actively participate in the energy sector and contribute to national prosperity.
