By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
A five-year research project under the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, PTDF, Professorial Chair programme at the University of Jos has identified evidence indicating Oil and natural gas potential in parts of Plateau State, with stakeholders calling for further exploration and commercialisation of the findings.
The findings were unveiled at the close-out seminar of the PTDF Endowment Professorial Chair in Geology and Mineral Science held at the University of Jos on Thursday.
Presenting the outcome of the research titled, “Integrated Geological and Geophysical Evaluation of the Shendam Sheet 212, Middle Belt Trough, Nigeria,” the Chair Occupant and Professor of Sedimentology and Petroleum Geology, Prof. Nuhu Kadai Samaila, said investigations revealed evidence of hydrocarbon occurrence and migration within the study area.
According to him, although the broader research covered sections of the Benue Trough, the team concentrated on Shendam Sheet 212 and recorded geological indicators favourable for hydrocarbon generation.
Samaila explained that laboratory analysis showed appreciable organic carbon content in rock samples and sediment thickness exceeding 500 metres in some locations.
He said that despite some samples being affected by weathering and erosion, researchers identified evidence associated with hydrocarbon movement within the subsurface
“What we are able to establish right now is gas. We also have thick sediments and temperature gradients sufficient to mature source rocks within the basin,” he said.
The professor noted that preliminary geochemical findings suggested that the dominant organic materials identified were largely Type III and Type IV, indicating stronger natural gas potential than crude oil generation.
He further disclosed that investigations around Langtang North / Langtang South formations recorded indications of oil occurrence, including degraded oil observed at the surface, suggesting additional petroleum prospects that may require further exploration.
Samaila called for collaboration between PTDF and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, to undertake seismic surveys that would determine the quantity and commercial viability of hydrocarbon deposits in the area.
“If PTDF collaborates with NNPCL, they can carry out seismic survey in the area where we worked and establish more precisely the quantity and quality of hydrocarbons available,” he stated.
Beyond hydrocarbon prospects, Samaila said the research also identified barite deposits with industrial potential and hydrothermal energy resources capable of supporting electricity generation.
Speaking at the event, Executive Secretary of PTDF, Prof. Shuaibu Shehu Aliyu, challenged Nigerian universities and researchers to prioritise the commercialisation of research findings to accelerate industrial growth and support national development.
Aliyu, whose goodwill message was delivered by Deputy Manager, Procurement, PTDF, Mr. Dikko Abba, said research institutions must move beyond knowledge generation and focus on developing solutions capable of attracting investment and strengthening industry.
He noted that the study aligns with Nigeria’s drive for economic diversification and sustainable resource development.
According to him, detailed geological and geophysical investigations remain critical for understanding subsurface structures, assessing mineral resource potential and guiding exploration decisions.
The PTDF Executive Secretary also emphasised the need for stronger institutional partnerships and sustained investment in research to bridge the gap between academia, government and industry.
“We expect stronger institutional collaboration that will enhance capacity development, strengthen industrial infrastructure and ensure practical application of research outcomes for national development,” he said.
Also speaking, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jos, Prof. Tanko Ishaya, described research collaboration between universities and industry as essential to Nigeria’s development.
He said the PTDF partnership had demonstrated the value of sustained investment in research and noted that outcomes from the project could support future policy direction on resource development.
Ishaya stated that beyond scientific discoveries, the programme strengthened institutional capacity, promoted collaboration and created a foundation for future research.
He added that the university was prepared to sustain the research momentum and explore opportunities for commercial application of the outcomes.
