The Western Nzema Traditional Council (WNTC) has commended President John Dramani Mahama for his call to expedite the development of the petroleum and petrochemical industry in Jomoro.
However, the council expressed concern over the government’s plan to redesign the 20,000-acre land allocated for the Petroleum Hub project.
According to the council, the proposal announced by President Mahama during his meeting with the Western Regional House of Chiefs represents a worrying shift from the project’s original objectives, which were expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and drive significant socio-economic development in the area.
Speaking at the WNTC’s Annual General Meeting on Friday, August 8, 2025, Nana Avo Nwia, Chief of Tikobo Number 2, speaking on behalf of Awulae Annor Adjaye III and the chiefs and elders of Jomoro said the President’s announcement was received with apprehension.
He emphasized that the chiefs have no objections to the 20,000 acres allocated for the project but are seeking clarity on the proposed redesign.
“During the President’s address to the Western Region chiefs, he mentioned land issues and his commitment to the project, directing expedited action. However, he indicated starting with 5,000 acres, which raises concerns. We need clarity on his intentions,” Nana Avo Nwia stated.
He further explained that, “We allocated 20,000 acres to the government for this project, fully aware it wouldn’t commence across the entire area initially. However, starting with only 5,000 acres risks private developers acquiring adjacent land before the second phase, complicating future expansion. The chiefs have no issue with the allocated land but urge the government to prioritize prompt compensation payments to affected residents.”
In response, Dr Toni Aubynn, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project.
He clarified that President Mahama’s comments on redesigning the project reflect concerns raised by some members of the Nzema community regarding the size of the land.
“I acknowledge your concerns, but I urge you to interpret the President’s statement in the proper context,” Dr. Aubynn said.
“His vision to create jobs, bolster industrialization, and secure Ghana’s energy future calls for expedited development of the Hub.”
He added, “Nananom, you would appreciate the concerns of some of our compatriots about the size of the land. I believe the President sees public debate over land size as a factor slowing down progress. If that is the albatross, then let’s begin with a smaller portion and expand as the project grows. His directive to expedite work at the Hub clearly underscores his dedication.”
The Annual General Meeting, held in Beyin, was the largest gathering of chiefs, elders, government officials, companies, and industry stakeholders in the Jomoro enclave.
The event fostered discussions on regional development and included a delegation representing the area’s Member of Parliament, the Municipal Chief Executive, and representatives from the Ghana National Gas Company, among others.
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