Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has urged the Federal Government to resume oil exploration in Magumeri and Gubio Local Government Areas, saying the projects could support reconstruction, generate employment and expand the state’s economy.
Zulum made the appeal at the 13th regular meeting of the North-East Governors’ Forum at Government House, Maiduguri.
The two-day meeting, which opened on Friday, focused on security, regional development and economic cooperation among the six North-Eastern states.
The governor, who chairs the forum, welcomed the Federal Government’s renewed efforts to revive exploration at the Kolmani oil field in Bauchi State.
He said the project offered opportunities beyond oil production, including infrastructure development, job creation and additional revenue for the region.
Zulum called for similar attention to exploration activities previously commenced in Magumeri and Gubio but subsequently halted.
“Responsible exploration and development of our natural resources can complement ongoing reconstruction efforts, strengthen local economies, restore livelihoods and create sustainable opportunities for our rapidly growing population,” he said.
He also identified the Lake Chad Basin as an important part of the region’s resource-development prospects.
In his remarks, Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya highlighted progress in regional cooperation, including establishing the North-East Education Council.
He said the states were adopting different approaches to tackling the challenges of Almajiri education and reducing the number of out-of-school children.
He added that health commissioners from the six states established a regional platform in 2024 to improve coordination and exchange expertise.
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri and Yahaya attended the meeting, while Bauchi and Yobe were represented by their deputy governors.
