The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has expressed his endorsement of the Petroleum Hub project, emphasizing his strong conviction in its potential to transform the Jomoro Municipality and create sustainable employment opportunities for the youth of Ghana.
During a brief statement made during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), led by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Toni Aubynn, the Minister conveyed his renewed confidence in the initiative.
He stated that his increased belief is a result of significant progress achieved by the John Mahama administration and the leadership of the PHDC under the current CEO and his deputies.
The Minister highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to the project, along with the innovative strategies employed by the PHDC, led by Dr. Aubynn, to secure necessary funding for compensation following land acquisition.
Mr. Buah noted that the matter of compensation has been a significant factor that has hindered confidence in the project’s feasibility and viability.
Armah-Kofi Buah, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Ellembelle, assured the delegation that, having been impressed by the tangible advancements made by the Corporation since Dr. Toni Aubynn took office, he would utilize all available resources and influence to achieve the vision of establishing Jomoro as the ‘Rotterdam of Africa.’
He committed to engaging with the leadership of the Lands Commission to expedite ongoing land processes, ensuring prompt and efficient acquisition.
Additionally, Armah-Kofi Buah revealed that the government is actively pursuing critical infrastructure projects, including roads and other essential facilities, which are vital for preparing the site for the Petroleum Hub.
“I now firmly believe in the Petroleum Hub project,” he stated while addressing the PHDC delegation.
In reply, Dr. Toni Aubynn, CEO of the PHDC, expressed deep gratitude to the Minister for his show of support and confidence in the initiative.
He characterized Mr. Buah’s endorsement and commitment to accelerate land acquisition as highly encouraging news, not only for the Corporation but also for the residents of Jomoro, potential investors, and all stakeholders.
Dr. Aubynn additionally pointed out that, in addition to collaborating with relevant agencies to obtain the necessary land, PHDC is proactively engaging investors to secure forward funding for Lot One of the project.
He also praised the Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema Traditional Area and the inhabitants of Western Nzema for their remarkable patience and unwavering faith in the project.
Dr. Aubynn highlighted the strategic significance of the Petroleum Hub in ensuring Ghana’s energy security and its potential to generate sustainable livelihoods for more than 700,000 Ghanaians.
The PHDC delegation comprised the Deputy CEO for Operations and Technical, Onasis Rosely; the Deputy CEO for Finance and Administration, Halimatu Sadia Abdulai; the Director of Legal Affairs, Enoch Aboagye Larbi; the Director of Operations and Technical, Kwabena Owusu-Abrokwa; and the Advisor on Sustainability and Strategy, Dr. Kwame Baah-Nuakoh.
