IBB varsity begins another exploration in Bida, Sokoto basins

The Ibrahim Badamasi Babaginda University (IBBU), Lapai in Niger State has commenced another round of hydrocarbon exploration research in Bida and Sokoto Basins, the Chairman, Governing Council of the University has disclosed.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of a two-day workshop of the title, ‘Bida and Sokoto Basins Hydrocarbon Exploration Researc,’ yesterday in Minna, Dr. Muhammad Santuraki said the exploration activities in both basins were in collaboration with the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

Our correspondent recalls that the University had earlier conducted research studies on the two basins and submitted its findings to the Presidency, NNPC, the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) and Niger State government.

Santuraki who was represented on the occasion by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Muhammad Nasir Maiturare, said the new partnership was a culmination of deep research with positive signs.

He said the Bida basin hydrocarbon exploration research started in 2010 with a research proposal on the subject matter submitted to then Governor Muazu Babaginda Aliyu who set up a gubernatorial committee on the basin.

He reiterated the commitment of the University to the research project aimed at expanding the national hydrocarbon reserve base through possible additional bookings in the inland frontier basins.

The project’s Technical Coordinator and Director of the university’s Research Centre, Prof Nuhu Obaje said although Nigeria must diversify her economy, it could not wish oil and gas away.