The Western Regional Minister, Hon. Joseph Nelson, has pledged unwavering support for the establishment of the Petroleum Hub in Jomoro, situated within the Western Nzema Traditional Area. This initiative is poised to become one of Ghana’s most transformative energy projects, bolstering industrialization and economic growth.
The minister made this commitment during a courtesy visit by Dr. Toni Aubynn, Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), at the Western Regional Coordinating Council. Dr. Aubynn was accompanied by the Deputy CEO for Operations and Technical Affairs, Kobby Onasis Rosely, along with other executive members of the corporation. The visit served as an opportunity to formally introduce the PHDC leadership and reaffirm the government’s dedication to expediting the Petroleum Hub project.
Dr. Aubynn underscored the project’s transformative potential, stating that the Petroleum Hub would revolutionize energy accessibility, reliability, and affordability across Ghana and the broader West African region. He emphasized that the hub could generate approximately 700,000 direct and indirect jobs, positioning it as a cornerstone of employment and regional economic integration.
“If it comes fully on stream, the Petroleum Hub will employ more people than any single entity in Ghana,” Dr. Aubynn remarked. He further projected that the hub would elevate Jomoro to become Ghana’s version of Rotterdam, significantly boosting the country’s GDP and positioning it as a leader in energy infrastructure.
As part of the preparatory phase, Dr. Aubynn revealed plans to launch a comprehensive training program aimed at equipping local youth with essential skills. This initiative, he explained, would not only prepare them for roles within the Petroleum Hub but also enhance their overall employability, fostering a skilled workforce for the future.
Expressing enthusiasm for the project, Hon. Joseph Nelson lauded Dr. Aubynn’s appointment and praised his extensive experience in leadership roles across both the public and private sectors. He described the Petroleum Hub as a “game-changer” and reaffirmed the full backing of the Western Regional Coordinating Council.
“Having a petroleum hub in the Western Region is a vision I wholeheartedly support. This project will be instrumental in driving industrialization and economic transformation in Ghana. I am committed to supporting you in achieving this noble objective,” the minister stated.
Dr. Aubynn’s engagements also included a visit to the Western Regional House of Chiefs in Sekondi, where traditional leaders offered their unwavering support for the hub. They emphasized the need for fair compensation for communities affected by the project, ensuring that local stakeholders benefit equitably from its development.
With strong support from government officials, traditional authorities, and strategic planning underway, the Petroleum Hub Project is on track to become a pivotal pillar in Ghana’s energy sector. It is expected to not only bolster the country’s energy capacity but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and industrial transformation in the region.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
