Lands Minister throws support behind Petroleum Hub
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, has publicly reaffirmed his backing for the Petroleum Hub project, declaring that he is now fully convinced of its potential to reshape the economic fortunes of the Jomoro Municipality and create large-scale employment opportunities for Ghana’s youth.
His endorsement came during a courtesy call by a delegation from the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation led by its Chief Executive Officer, Toni Aubynn, at which the Minister signalled a renewed political commitment to accelerating the project.
Addressing the delegation, Mr Armah-Kofi Buah said recent developments under the administration of John Dramani Mahama and the leadership of the Corporation had strengthened his confidence in the initiative’s viability.
“I now firmly believe in the Petroleum Hub project”, Hon. Armah-Buah said while addressing the delegation from PHDC.
According to the Minister, progress made in addressing long-standing bottlenecks — particularly financing arrangements for compensation following land acquisition — had altered the outlook for the project. He noted that compensation concerns had previously dampened confidence among stakeholders and raised questions about feasibility.
Mr Buah, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Ellembelle, assured the delegation that he would leverage his office to help drive the vision of establishing Jomoro as the ‘Rotterdam of Africa.’ He indicated that he would engage the Lands Commission to fast-track land documentation and acquisition processes to ensure greater efficiency.
He further disclosed that government was advancing critical infrastructure works, including road construction and other essential facilities, to prepare the project site for development.
Responding to the Minister’s remarks, Dr Aubynn expressed appreciation for what he described as a strong show of confidence at a pivotal stage of the project’s development.
He described the Mr Buah’s endorsement and pledge to expedite land acquisition as immensely encouraging news, not only for the Corporation but also for the people of Jomoro, prospective investors, and all stakeholders.
Dr Aubynn stated that beyond coordinating with relevant agencies on land matters, the Corporation was actively engaging investors to secure forward funding for Lot One of the project. He said these efforts were aimed at translating policy support into concrete financial commitments.
The PHDC Chief Executive also acknowledged the role of traditional authorities and local residents in sustaining momentum for the project. He commended the Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema Traditional Area and the people of Western Nzema for what he described as their patience and continued faith in the initiative.
Dr Aubynn emphasised the strategic significance of the Petroleum Hub, noting its importance for Ghana’s long-term energy security and its projected capacity to create sustainable livelihoods for more than 700,000 people.