The government has assured the landowners of the 20,000 acres land earmarked for the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation project in the Western Region of adequate compensation.
It therefore, urged the chiefs and people of Jomoro to trust in the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama to transform the petroleum hub from concept to reality—positioning Ghana as the first African nation to develop such an integrated energy infrastructure.
These were made known by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the PHDC, Dr Toni Aubynn, during a visit to the designated site on Friday assuring them that the project would not be abandoned.
Accompanied by his deputies, Onasis Rosely and Halimatu Sadia Abdulai Abu, along with other senior management members, Dr Aubynn embarked on a series of strategic engagements. The visit marked his inaugural tour since his appointment by President John Dramani Mahama.
Following recent consultations with the Western Regional House of Chiefs, the visit further demonstrated the PHDC leadership’s commitment to fostering collaboration with the people of Jomoro to advance the Petroleum Hub initiative.
With an ambition to transform Jomoro into the “Rotterdam of Africa,” Dr Aubynn appealed for calm and support as efforts intensified to secure funding, particularly for compensating of landowners of the 20,000 acres earmarked for the project.
He emphasised the corporation’s focus on local content, assuring that residents of Jomoro would be given priority for technical and key roles within the project.
As part of the preparations, he announced an upcoming skills development initiative aimed at training local youth for emerging opportunities tied to the project.
“We are here to formally introduce ourselves to Awulae and the Nzema chiefs and assure them of our commitment to delivering a successful Petroleum Hub,” Dr Aubynn stated.
“President John Mahama has tasked us with ensure that the people of Jomoro are the first to benefit, and we are determined to deliver on that mandate.”
The PHDC delegation also visited the project office in Nawule, Jomoro Municipality, to familiarise themselves with ongoing operations. Dr Aubynn commended the staff for their dedication and urged them to continue working diligently to bring the Petroleum Hub vision to life.
Nana Avo Nwia, Chief of Tikobo Number 2 and member of the Standing Committee, speaking on behalf of Awulae Annor Adjaye III, commended Dr Aubynn’s efforts and expressed confidence in his leadership, citing his extensive experience in the mining and energy sectors.
He urged the PHDC and the government to remain focused on delivering the transformative project, which is expected to generate thousands of jobs for the local youth. He also called for the swift compensation of affected farmers.
Nana Nyamekeh Annor IV, Chief of Bonyere, one of the key communities impacted by the project—encouraged the PHDC to harness local expertise in executing the initiative. He reaffirmed the full support of the chiefs and residents, expressing confidence in the project’s potential to transform the region.
Local youth also expressed optimism about the job opportunities the project presents, welcoming Dr Aubynn’s pledge to prioritise Jomoro residents in recruitment and training.
FROOM TIMES REPORTER, JOMORO
