By Jamila Adamu, Bauchi.
In a significant step toward advancing the oil and gas sector and fostering economic diversification, the Bauchi State Ministry of Natural Resources Development has officially inaugurated the Governing Board Members of the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy (BOGA), Alkaleri. The inauguration ceremony took place at the academy’s temporary site within Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic (ATAP), led by the Honorable Commissioner for Natural Resources Development, Hon. Muhammad Maiwada Bello.
Hon. Bello opened the event by extolling the visionary leadership of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad, highlighting his unwavering commitment to sustainable development, industrialization, and investment in human capital across Bauchi State. The Commissioner described Governor Bala as a transformative leader whose foresight has been instrumental in laying a strong foundation for Bauchi’s technological and economic progress.
Highlighting the academy’s progress under the Governor’s administration, the Commissioner emphasized several notable achievements, including the development of a cutting-edge curriculum aligned with international oil and gas industry standards. He also praised the establishment of strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, the recruitment of highly qualified instructors, and the acquisition of modern technical equipment designed to provide practical, hands-on training to students.
“Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad has demonstrated exceptional foresight by positioning BOGA as a center of excellence for oil and gas education,” Bello said. “His administration continues to invest heavily in equipping Bauchi’s youth with the skills necessary to compete in the global energy sector.”
The Commissioner further remarked that the appointment of a highly credible and diverse Board underscores Governor Bala’s leadership philosophy, which emphasizes meritocracy, professionalism, and inclusiveness. He expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated Board Members would bring invaluable expertise, integrity, and innovative ideas to drive the academy’s growth and impact.
He urged the Board Members to honor the confidence reposed in them by providing strategic direction and ensuring the academy fulfills its mandate to produce skilled manpower for Nigeria’s vital oil and gas industry. “Your role is pivotal in sustaining the standards of BOGA and advancing Governor Bala’s vision to transform Bauchi into a leading hub for energy education and exploration,” he stated.
Speaking, the Rector of Alkaleri Oil and Gas Academy, Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Yero, described the newly appointed Board Members as highly professional and distinguished individuals whose expertise will be instrumental in steering the academy toward its ambitious goals. He emphasized the importance of collaborative engagement between the academy, government, and host communities to foster an enabling environment for sustainable growth.
Dr. Yero also highlighted the academy’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology and research into its training programs to meet evolving industry demands. “Our focus is not only on imparting technical knowledge but also on nurturing innovation, critical thinking, and leadership skills among our students, preparing them to become global competitors in the oil and gas sector,” he noted.
Furthermore, the Rector appealed for continued support and partnership from both the government and the private sector, stressing that such alliances are essential to expand infrastructure, enhance research capabilities, and provide scholarship opportunities for deserving students. “Together, we can build a world-class institution that not only serves Bauchi State but also contributes significantly to Nigeria’s energy development and economic diversification,” Dr. Yero concluded.
In response, the newly appointed Chairman of the Board, Senator Adamu Muhammad Bulkachuwa, expressed sincere gratitude to Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad for the trust and confidence shown through their appointments. He lauded the Governor’s transformational leadership and commitment to education, technical advancement, and economic empowerment.
Senator Bulkachuwa highlighted the critical role of the oil and gas industry as a key driver of Bauchi State’s and Nigeria’s broader economic growth. He pledged that the Board, under his stewardship, would collaborate closely with the Ministry and BOGA management to realize the academy’s vision of becoming a premier training center for the oil and gas sector.
The Board membership includes the District Head of Alkaleri alongside representatives from the Ministries of Education, Justice, Power and Energy, and other relevant stakeholders. Their collective expertise is expected to significantly contribute to the strategic direction and operational excellence of the academy.
With the continued support and visionary leadership of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Muhammad, BOGA is strategically positioned to unlock Bauchi State’s vast economic potential while equipping the next generation of professionals to thrive in the dynamic global energy industry.
