June 23, 2025 – Dr. Tony Aubynn, Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC), has appealed to the government to speed up the acquisition of land for the proposed Petroleum Hub in the Western Region, warning that delays are discouraging potential investors.
Addressing journalists, Dr. Aubynn said the government must prioritize the relocation and compensation of people currently living and farming on the land earmarked for the project. He noted that the availability of legally secured land is the most critical step to move the hub forward.
“People with farms and homes must be resettled quickly so we can begin the necessary groundwork. The land needs to be fully secured to assure investors,” he said.
According to Dr. Aubynn, the government has allocated GHS 300 million to assist with the land acquisition process, although he admitted that the total cost would likely exceed this amount. Still, he described the allocation as a helpful starting point.
He revealed that several investors have already shown interest and signed preliminary agreements, but legal uncertainties around land ownership are holding them back from committing funds. “We’ve signed MOUs with some investors, but they’re waiting for clear land titles before proceeding,” he explained.
Dr. Aubynn pointed out that in 2024, President Nana Akufo-Addo instructed that GHS 2 million be released for initial compensation payments. However, he said this money was never made available because it was not included in the national budget. “No funds were released, and nothing was done. The item wasn’t captured in the budget at all,” he stated.
He emphasized that resolving land issues would unlock significant investment opportunities and bring long-term benefits to the region, including job creation and infrastructure development.
“There are serious investors knocking at our door. But without resolving the land problem, their confidence remains low. Once we clear that hurdle, the project can truly begin,” Dr. Aubynn concluded.
The Petroleum Hub, once completed, is expected to be one of the largest energy and petrochemical centers in West Africa, positioning Ghana as a key player in the global energy sector.
By Nzematoday TV
