The Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson has thrown his weight behind the development of the Petroleum Hub in Jomoro, located in the Western Nzema Traditional Area.
This commitment was made during a courtesy visit by Dr. Toni Aubynn, CEO of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), to the Western Regional Coordinating Council.
Dr. Aubynn was joined by Deputy CEO Kobby Onasis Rosely, who oversees Operations and Technical affairs, along with other key executives from the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC). This strategic visit was designed to formally introduce the PHDC leadership team while reaffirming the government’s steadfast commitment to expediting the hub project’s development.
Dr. Aubynn underscored the game-changing potential of the Petroleum Hub, stressing its far-reaching benefits for Ghana and the West African sub-region. By enhancing energy accessibility, reliability, and affordability, the hub is poised to catalyze economic growth and development. Upon completion, the project is anticipated to create an estimated 700,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities, thereby stimulating regional economic integration.
“If it comes fully on stream, the Petroleum Hub will employ more people than any single entity in Ghana,” Dr. Aubynn stated. He further stressed that at full capacity, the hub would position Jomoro as the “Rotterdam of Ghana,” contributing significantly to the country’s GDP.
As the Petroleum Hub project gears up for implementation, Dr. Aubynn revealed plans to introduce a comprehensive training initiative designed to empower local youth with vital skills. This proactive approach not only aims to prepare them for potential job openings within the hub but also seeks to bolster their overall employability.
Minister Joseph Nelson warmly congratulated Dr. Aubynn on his appointment, praising his impressive leadership experience in both public and private sectors. He pledged the Western Regional Coordinating Council’s full support, hailing the project as a groundbreaking catalyst for industrialization and economic growth.
“Having a petroleum hub in the Western Region is something I am extremely excited about. I am fully committed to supporting you in achieving this noble objective,” Nelson stated.
Dr. Aubynn made a courtesy visit to the Western Regional House of Chiefs in Sekondi, where he received a warm welcome from traditional leaders.
They voiced their strong backing for the hub’s development, while also emphasizing the need for fair compensation for communities impacted by the project.
Benefiting from robust government support, the blessing of traditional leaders, and meticulous planning, the Petroleum Hub Project is advancing steadily, poised to emerge as a cornerstone of Ghana’s energy landscape and a powerful engine of economic expansion.
Author: Dorothy Donkor
