Anambra Claims Recovery Of 10 Oil Wells From Delta, Awaits Federal Verification
Anambra Announces Recovery of Oil Wells
The government of Anambra State has announced the recovery of 10 oil wells previously attributed to Delta State, a development that could significantly increase the state’s revenue profile if confirmed by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
The disclosure was made in Awka by Charles Ofoegbu, Managing Director of the Anambra State Solid Mineral Development Company and Chairman of Anambra State Petroleum Energy Resources Limited, during an interview with Anambra Broadcasting Service.
According to Ofoegbu, the oil wells are located along the maritime boundary between Anambra and Delta states and had previously been credited to Delta in federal oil revenue calculations.
Awaiting Federal Verification
Ofoegbu explained that the state government is awaiting the verification of the recovered wells by the Revenue Mobilisation Commission, which is responsible for determining the ownership and revenue allocation of oil-producing assets across Nigeria.
Once the verification process is completed and approved, Anambra could begin receiving additional allocations through the country’s oil derivation formula, which provides oil-producing states with 13 percent of revenue derived from petroleum resources.
He noted that the recovery of the wells represents a significant step in the state’s efforts to strengthen its position within Nigeria’s oil-producing community.
Boundary Disputes with Neighbouring States
The recovery effort is part of a broader campaign by the Anambra government to reclaim oil assets currently under dispute with neighbouring states.
According to Ofoegbu, several oil wells located along boundary areas are contested between Anambra and neighbouring states including Imo State, Rivers State, Delta State and Enugu State.
He said the state government is actively working to resolve these disputes and secure recognition of the wells through appropriate federal regulatory channels.
Such developments, he added, could significantly increase the state’s share of oil revenue from the Federal Government.
Plans for Refinery and Mineral Development
Beyond oil well recovery, the Anambra government is also pursuing plans to strengthen its energy and mineral sectors.
Ofoegbu revealed that the state is partnering with foreign investors to establish a modular refinery in Osamala, located in Ogbaru Local Government Area. The proposed facility is expected to refine petroleum products including diesel for distribution within Anambra and neighbouring states.
The project is projected to generate employment opportunities while increasing internally generated revenue.
In addition, the government plans to develop a kaolin mining site in Ukpor in Nnewi South Local Government Area and establish a bentonite processing plant in Achalagu, Nteje.
Bentonite deposits have also been identified in Umuchu and Ufuma communities, resources that could support industrial applications, particularly within the oil sector.
Boosting the State’s Economic Prospects
Ofoegbu noted that expanding the oil and mineral sectors forms part of a broader economic strategy under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
He said revenue generated from the state’s growing petroleum industry has already contributed significantly to infrastructure development and other projects across Anambra, including the construction of the Solution Fun City leisure complex.
According to him, continued investment in natural resources and energy infrastructure is expected to strengthen the state’s economy and position Anambra as an emerging energy hub in southeastern Nigeria.
