The Oloibiri Oil Museum and Research Centre project, a long-awaited initiative aimed at commemorating the birthplace of Nigeria’s oil industry, has officially entered its construction phase. Located in Otuabagi, Bayelsa State, the site of the first commercial oil discovery in Nigeria in 1957, the project marks a significant step towards preserving the nation’s petroleum heritage and fostering research and development in the sector. Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, a renowned construction company, has been entrusted with the responsibility of bringing this ambitious vision to life, following a formal handover ceremony conducted by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and other key stakeholders.
The handover signifies the culmination of extensive planning and collaboration among the project’s promoters, including the NCDMB, Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Renaissance Africa Energy Limited, and the Bayelsa State Government. These stakeholders have collectively committed to funding the multi-billion naira project, with contributions split according to a 40:30:20:10 ratio, respectively. The ceremony itself represents a pivotal moment, transitioning the project from the conceptual stage to the tangible reality of construction. It underlines the shared commitment of all parties involved to honoring the historical significance of Oloibiri and transforming it into a hub of knowledge and economic activity.
The Oloibiri Oil Museum and Research Centre is envisioned as a world-class facility, comprising two core components: a comprehensive museum and a dedicated research testing center. The museum will serve as a repository of Nigeria’s oil and gas history, showcasing the geological formations that underpin the industry, the evolution of drilling technologies, and the milestones achieved throughout the nation’s petroleum journey. Interactive displays and digital engagement tools will cater to a diverse audience, including industry professionals, students, researchers, and tourists, offering an immersive and educational experience.
The research center, an integral part of the project, will provide a platform for cutting-edge research and development activities related to the oil and gas sector. This facility is expected to contribute significantly to advancements in petroleum technology, supporting innovation and enhancing the industry’s overall efficiency and sustainability. The combined impact of the museum and research center will position Oloibiri as a prominent destination on the global oil and gas map, attracting both local and international visitors.
The NCDMB, playing a leading role in the project’s development, emphasized the importance of commemorating the origins of oil and gas industries. The Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Felix Ogbe, highlighted international precedents where similar projects have been established to recognize historical sites of oil discovery. These examples, such as Pennsylvania in the United States, demonstrate the potential for such initiatives to generate socio-economic benefits for the host communities. Ogbe reiterated the commitment to establishing a strong governance structure for the museum and research center, ensuring efficient management and fostering a sense of ownership within the local community.
The handover ceremony witnessed expressions of commitment and anticipation from all stakeholders. Julius Berger, represented by its Deputy Regional Manager, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to delivering the project according to specifications and upholding its reputation for excellence. The Bayelsa State Government and the Otuabagi community also expressed their appreciation for the collaborative efforts that have propelled the project forward. With all parties aligned and construction officially underway, the Oloibiri Oil Museum and Research Centre is poised to become a landmark achievement, celebrating Nigeria’s oil heritage and contributing to the advancement of its petroleum industry. The facility is expected to serve as a symbol of national pride, educating future generations and driving innovation in the energy sector.
