A former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can secure northern votes in the 2027 presidential election once Kolmani oil project is materialised.Â
The Kolmani Integrated Development Project, launched by former President Muhammadu Buhari, represents a significant milestone for the northern region of Nigeria. Situated between Bauchi and Gombe States, the Kolmani oil field is the country’s first inland oil exploration site, aiming to bolster Nigeria’s energy resources and expand economic opportunities.
The project comprises an oil refinery, a gas processing plant, a power plant, and a fertilizer production plant, signalling a comprehensive industrial approach. If realised, it holds the potential to create thousands of jobs, reduce dependence on foreign energy, and attract substantial investments to the region. However, implementation delays and politics will remain critical factors in actualising the project’s promises.
Speaking with journalists in Bauchi over the weekend, Hon. Dogara said “If President Bola Ahmed Tinubu awards and commences the Bagel Dam and revisits the oil exploration in Bauchi State, he does not need to come for campaigns in Bauchi State for the 2027 presidential campaign as we will all vote for him.”
Dogara emphasised the transformative potential of Kolmani oil exploration for Bauchi State, noting that it could propel the state into the league of oil-producing states.
He added, “There will be more revenue allocation through derivation, while more revenue generation sources will be opened.”
The former Speaker humorously invoked a legislative style to emphasize consensus on the matter: “I will put two questions to you: all those in support should say ‘Ye’ and those against say, ‘Nay.”
By focusing on these transformative projects, Dogara suggests that President Tinubu can cement his political appeal in northern Nigeria, positioning himself as a leader committed to equitable development across the country.
