Oyo pegs borehole drilling fee at ₦14,000 per metre

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Oyo State Government has fixed the cost of borehole drilling at ₦14,000 per metre across the state.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Arc. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, disclosed this during a meeting with groundwater stakeholders at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan.

He emphasized that the meeting was convened to address the challenges faced by groundwater abstraction practitioners and to develop collaborative solutions for the sustainable management of this vital resource.

“One of the key priorities of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration is to provide access to potable water across Oyo State through all viable means. This includes creating a conducive environment for individuals and communities to drill boreholes,” he said.

Earlier, Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, in his opening remarks, highlighted the importance of water and urged support for the government’s plans. “Water is life, and those who provide it bring life. This gathering offers a platform for collective ideas to improve service delivery and promote compliance with the new regulatory framework,” he said.

Groundwater expert Mr. Ajayi Richard noted progress in the sector. He said that 23 companies currently work with the ministry, operating 12 active drilling machines. Both local and foreign rig owners are creating jobs for locals.

Attendees included Engr. Kolawole Olayinka of AWDROP, Prof. Christopher Adeigbe of NMGS, Mr. Ajibola Anjorin of Indigenous Drillers, ministry directors, and other key stakeholders.

The group agreed to enforce regulations, maintain fair pricing, and adopt sustainable methods for groundwater development in Oyo State.