NNPC’s Borno state efforts in doubt

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation’s (NNPC) plans to resume exploration efforts in the Lake Chad basin were called into question on Monday.

According to local media reports, NNPC is likely to miss its self-imposed July deadline to begin work on an earmarked site. A Nigerian newspaper said that none of the required equipment had been moved yet, citing a general lack of activity on the ground.

In May, Saidu Mohamed, NNPC’s CEO of gas and power said NNPC’s drilling efforts in the basin area could be resumed within 6 weeks.

“This is necessary with our renewed efforts in harnessing oil, gas and power to increase the economy of the nation, in line with the agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari in job creation and economic diversification,” he said at the time.

Work in Borno state was previously halted due to Boko Haram violence, yet in recent months the militant group has suffered several defeats in the area.

NNPC officials that have reached out to the media on the condition of anonymity have said that the company has yet to receive military clearance to enter the area.