The Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) has moved to calm growing concerns among traditional authorities in the Western Nzema area over possible further delays to the long-awaited Petroleum Hub project at Jomoro.
The assurance was given during the Annual General Meeting of the Western Nzema Traditional Council (WNTC), where PHDC leadership reaffirmed its commitment to commencing major project activities this year.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Operations and Technical at PHDC, Onasis Kobby Rosely, speaking on behalf of Chief Executive Officer Dr. Toni Aubynn, said the corporation had already completed the foundational groundwork needed to ensure a smooth take-off of the project.
“The government’s vision of establishing a petroleum and petrochemical hub at Jomoro remains very much alive and active.
“The President has tasked us with ensuring the project’s development, and I can assure you that we are fully committed to delivering on this mandate.”
Onasis Kobby Rosely, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Operations and Technical at PHDC
Mr. Rosely commended the chiefs and elders for their patience and continued support, noting that the first year of the current PHDC administration had been dedicated to building a solid institutional and technical foundation.
He stressed that PHDC’s leadership is now shifting focus from preparatory work to the commencement of substantive on-site activities.
Presidential Backing and Land Matters
Mr. Rosely revealed that the Corporation’s confidence has been reinforced by direct engagement with President John Dramani Mahama, particularly during a meeting held toward the end of 2025.
“He has already acted on his promises, particularly concerning land acquisition and funding for the project’s preparatory activities.”
Onasis Kobby Rosely, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Operations and Technical at PHDC
He disclosed that PHDC is currently working closely with the Lands Commission to address outstanding land-related issues, a critical step toward clearing the way for construction.
“Regarding compensation, we are confident that discussions will be concluded very soon, allowing everything to proceed smoothly so the project can take off successfully, for the benefit of the people of Jomoro and the nation as a whole.”
Onasis Kobby Rosely, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Operations and Technical at PHDC
He emphasised that resolving compensation matters remains a priority for PHDC, as it underpins community trust and project sustainability.
Renewed Optimism from High-Level Engagements
Beyond presidential support, Mr. Rosely attributed PHDC’s renewed optimism to recent engagements with key stakeholders in government.
He cited productive meetings with the President in November 2025 and with the Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, on January 22, 2026.
According to him, these engagements have helped align policy, institutional support, and timelines, strengthening the Corporation’s resolve to begin implementation this year.
Another major factor boosting confidence, Mr. Rosely noted, is the sustained interest from international investors. He said PHDC continues to receive expressions of interest from investors across different regions, signalling confidence in the long-term viability of the Petroleum Hub.
While he did not disclose specific details, Mr. Rosely said investor engagement remains a central pillar of the Corporation’s strategy to deliver a world-class petroleum and petrochemical complex.
Traditional Council Reaffirms Support
For his part, the Paramount Chief of the Western Nzema Traditional Council, Awulae Kwasi Armahchi III, welcomed PHDC’s participation in the council’s AGM, describing it as a gesture of respect and goodwill.
He reaffirmed the unwavering support of the chiefs, elders, and residents of the area for the Petroleum Hub project, which is expected to transform the local and national economy.
While acknowledging lingering concerns over delays in compensation and the start of construction, the Paramount Chief expressed confidence in the leadership of PHDC under Dr. Aubynn to deliver on the promise of the project.
Awulae Kwasi Armahchi III also welcomed the proposed reduction in the land size allocated for the project, expressing hope that the decision was taken in good faith to ease implementation and address community concerns.
He noted that such steps demonstrate responsiveness to stakeholder feedback and could help foster smoother collaboration between PHDC and host communities.
The Petroleum Hub project is envisioned as a strategic industrial development that will position Ghana as a major downstream petroleum and petrochemical hub in West Africa.
For communities in Jomoro and the wider Western Region, the project holds the promise of jobs, infrastructure development, and long-term economic opportunities.
With assurances from PHDC leadership, renewed political backing, and continued investor interest, expectations are rising that 2026 could mark a turning point for the project.
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