By HAMZA SULEIMAN

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has expressed readiness to fast-track the resumption of oil exploration in Borno, following discussions with Gov. Babagana Zulum on the state’s energy development.

The commitment was made on Thursday when Zulum received a delegation of the company’s top management, led by its Board Chairman, Ahmadu Musa Kida in Maiduguri.

The meeting focused on the resumption of exploration activities in the Borno Basin and the delayed upgrade of the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant.

Zulum, while welcoming the delegation, emphasised the strategic importance of restarting oil exploration in the state, describing Borno as a location with significant commercial potential and strategic advantages due to its borders with three countries.

He expressed optimism that renewed exploration activities would unlock the state’s hydrocarbon resources, attract investment and stimulate economic development.

The governor, however, expressed concern over the slow pace of work on the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant, a critical infrastructure expected to improve electricity supply in the state.

He noted that in spite of the availability of necessary materials at the project site for about two years, the upgrade remained incomplete.

He, therefore, urged the NNPCL management to intervene and address the delays, stressing that the project was vital to the socio-economic well-being of residents of Maiduguri and its environs.

He said improved electricity supply would support businesses, enhance public services and contribute to the state’s economic recovery.

Responding, Kida assured the governor of the company’s readiness to fast-track the resumption of oil exploration in the Borno Basin.

He also pledged to address the bottlenecks delaying the completion of the emergency power plant.

The NNPCL chairman commended Zulum for his continued support and efforts towards creating conducive environment for investment and energy development in the state.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur; Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijani; Acting Chief of Staff, Dr Babagana Mallumbe and other senior government officials.

Members of the NNPCL delegation included Mr Udy Ntia, the Executive Vice President, Upstream and Mr Olalekon Ogunleye, the Executive Vice President, Gas, Power and New Energy. (NAN)