Governor Bala bags 2026 Nigerian Oil and Gas Forum Award

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has been honoured with a prestigious award during the 2026 Nigerian Oil and Gas Forum and Award ceremony in recognition of his administration’s commitment to the development of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Presenting the award at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, leader of the forum Nafisa Haruna Aliyu said the Governor was choosen for the award in view of his contribution to the development of the oil and gas sector through establishment of Bauchi State Oil and Gas Academy Alkaleri which th first state owned institution across the country.

She also acknowledged the positive role of the state government towards actualizing the ongoing Kolmani oil exploration that goes along way in ensuring oil and energy sufficiency and creating employment opportunities among teaming positions.

Speaking after receiving the award, Governor Bala Mohammed said the oil and gas sector remains vital to Nigeria’s economy, offering platforms for dialogue, innovation, policy alignment and strategic partnerships, explaining that his administration is committed to complementing the efforts of relevant stakeholders to strengthen the sector.

The governor, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Usman Shehu Usman, stated that under his leadership, Bauchi State is pursuing inclusive economic growth by harnessing natural resources, improving the investment climate, and supporting private sector participation, particularly within the energy value chain.

Governor Bala Mohammed emphasized that the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry lies in value addition, local content development, capacity building, and a deliberate transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions for long-term national prosperity.

He commended the organisers of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Forum for their foresight, noting that the awards promote excellence, innovation and accountability across the oil and gas industry and its regulatory institutions.

The governor further called for stronger collaboration among governments, industry players, regulators and host communities to build a resilient and inclusive energy sector, while congratulating award recipients and wishing participants productive deliberations at the forum.