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Government to release portions of Petroleum Hub land

Western Region House of Chiefs calls on President: Government to release portions of Petroleum Hub land

President John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to relinquish portions of the land acquired for a petroleum hub project in the Western Region, as part of efforts to address disputes with local communities to pave way for commencement of the project.

Under the revised plan, the government would now use 5,000 acres to kickstart the project, a significant reduction from the initial 20,000 acres earmarked under the previous administration.

The move would allow the people to use the excess land for agricultural activities, particularly the Domunli-Jomoro area, while ensuring fair compensation for affected communities.

The President, who disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Western Region House of Chiefs to the Jubilee House in Accra yesterday, said the government was, therefore, renegotiating the land agreement with traditional landowners.

Commitment

President Mahama emphasised his commitment to accelerate the realisation of the petroleum hub project, a flagship initiative designed to attract investors, create jobs and position the country as a regional leader in oil and gas services.

“We intend to fast-track work to unlock opportunities in the Western Region and the nation as a whole,” he said.

The project, first announced in 2020 under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, had faced delays due to land disputes and protests from residents who feared losing their livelihoods.

The President assured that adequate compensation would be paid for the land, adding that future acquisitions would be demand-driven.

He also pledged transparency in engagements with stakeholders to (ensure the project proceeded without further delays.

Development

The project, when completed, is expected to boost the nation’s downstream petroleum sector, attract foreign investment and generate jobs.

The Member of Parliament for Jomoro, Dorcas Toffey, told the Daily Graphic in an interview that the success of the project hinged on balancing development goals and the impact on communities.

She said the decision of the government followed extensive negotiations with stakeholders to address the concerns of residents.

Commendation

The President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kobina Nketiah V, congratulated President Mahama on his return to office following the 2024 elections, and also expressed satisfaction with his leadership in the first six months of his administration.

Referring to President Mahama as “Ababio” (second coming), the Omanhen of Essikado Traditional Area mentioned the government’s people-centered policies and the recent appreciation of the cedi as evidence of sound economic management.

“For once, we see that our country is going through some transformation,” Nana Nketiah added, and expressed appreciation for the President’s exemplary leadership.

He said that the government’s “reset agenda” had resonated well with the people, bringing hope and renewed confidence in governance.

Nana Nketiah assured the President of continuous support, saying “we intend to engage you from time to time to discuss development issues affecting our people”.

The meeting ended on a convivial note, with the chiefs presenting traditional gifts to the President as a symbol of their goodwill, and also to mark the 33rd marriage anniversary of the President to the First Lady, Lordina Mahama.

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