PHDC CEO Toni Aubynn visits Jomoro, site of Petroleum Hub

On Friday, April 11, 2025, Dr. Toni Aubynn visited the Jomoro Municipality. He is the Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC). This visit marked his first official tour since his appointment by President John Dramani Mahama.

Dr. Aubynn was accompanied by deputies Onasis Rosely and Halimatu Sadia Abdulai Abu. Other senior management members also joined him for this important visit. They engaged in various strategic activities to promote the Petroleum Hub project.

The visit followed recent discussions with the Western Regional House of Chiefs. It highlighted Dr. Aubynn's commitment to collaborating with Jomoro residents on the initiative. The team aimed to share President Mahama’s vision for the project.

Visit to Awulae Annor Adjaye III

The delegation began their visit at Awulae Annor Adjaye III's palace. He is the President of the Western Nzema Traditional Council and PHDC's inaugural Board Chairman.

During meetings with Awulae and his Standing Committee, Dr. Aubynn reaffirmed government support for the project. He assured them that it would not be abandoned.

Dr. Aubynn urged local leaders and residents to trust his leadership. He promised to take necessary steps to make the Petroleum Hub a reality for Ghana.

He envisions making Jomoro “the Rotterdam of Africa.” To achieve this, he requested calm and support while securing funding for landowner compensation.

Dr. Aubynn emphasized prioritizing local content in job opportunities for Jomoro residents. He announced plans for a skills development initiative to train local youth.

“We are here to introduce ourselves and assure our commitment,” he stated. “President Mahama wants Jomoro residents to benefit first, and we will deliver.”

Western Nzema Traditional Council Endorses PHDC Leadership

Nana Avo Nwia spoke on behalf of Awulae Annor Adjaye III during this meeting. He welcomed Dr. Aubynn and praised his experience in mining and energy sectors.

Nana Avo Nwia dismissed rumors of opposition against PHDC leadership. He expressed confidence in Dr. Aubynn’s credibility among chiefs and residents.

He urged PHDC and the government to focus on delivering this transformative project, which will create jobs for local youth. However, he called for faster compensation processes for affected farmers.

Visit to Project Office

The delegation then visited the project office in Nawule, Jomoro Municipality, to learn about ongoing operations there. They were guided by senior staff members during their tour of the facility.

Dr. Aubynn praised staff dedication and encouraged them to work diligently toward realizing their vision for the Petroleum Hub.

Engagement with Chiefs and Youth of Affected Communities

An introductory forum was held with chiefs from affected communities and local youth afterward. Dr. Aubynn reiterated that young people would benefit significantly from this project.

He assured chiefs that efforts were underway to secure funding for compensation, noting progress had been made already.

Nana Nyamekeh Annor IV, Chief of Bonyere—one key affected community—encouraged PHDC to utilize local expertise in executing plans effectively. He confirmed full support from chiefs and residents regarding the project's potential benefits.

Local youth expressed excitement about job prospects linked to this initiative as well, welcoming Dr.Aubynn’s commitment towards prioritizing recruitment from Jomoro residents.

Visit to Project Site

The day concluded with a site tour from Bonyere to Old Kabenlasuazo area designated for development projects under PHDC oversight.