NNPC to Begin Search for Oil in Benue Trough

Mr Buhari said this is the next step following the commencement of drilling in the Kolmani River area, located within Bauchi and Gombe states.

SEATTLE (Oil Monster): President Muhammadu Buhari says the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) will soon begin a deeper search for oil and gas in the Benue Trough.

Mr Buhari said this is the next step following the commencement of drilling in the Kolmani River area, located within Bauchi and Gombe states.

According to a statement by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, he made the announcement on Wednesday while addressing traditional rulers at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi, Benue State.

Mr Buhari was in the state for a campaign stop ahead of the February 16 presidential election in which he is running against 30 other candidates.

The president, recalled that as Minister of Petroleum in the 70s, he had seen 'very interesting seismic surveys' that promised oil and gas from the Chad Basin through the Benue Trough down to the Delta region.

He said for mostly commercial reasons, investment was directed to the Niger Delta given the promise of quicker results.

Mr Buhari narrated past efforts he made as military Head of State to diversify the country's sources of oil to strengthen its unity. He promised that his administration will intensify efforts in this direction.

The president welcomed the observation by the Tor Tiv, James Ayatse, that peace had been restored to Benue State following the spike last year in farmers and herders' clashes.

The traditional ruler also noted that the president had so far conducted 'a decent and peaceful campaign.'

The Tor Tiv had expressed appreciation to Mr Buhari 'for the way and manner you have conducted a peaceful campaign, no riots, no violence, setting a good example. We had a challenging time in 2016.

'Thanks for your intervention, for accepting our appeal to step up security. Operation Whirl Strike has succeeded in chasing away violent herders.'

He also called for a closer look at the border to stop 'criminals and bandits' from crossing into Nigeria.

Mr Buhari promised to look at requests for more roads, bridges and tertiary institutions made by the royal father.

The governor of the state, Samuel Ortom, in his remarks, called for free and fair elections.

Mr Ortom urged all contestants to abide by the outcome of the elections.

Courtesy: www.allafrica.com