President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo officially commissioned the new Operational Headquarters of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) on Thursday, August 1.
He described the event as a significant milestone for Ghana’s oil and gas industry, marking the completion of a project that began four years ago.
The inauguration also highlights the government’s commitment to decentralizing development and ensuring equitable benefits from the nation’s resources across all regions.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the significance of the new facility, calling it a fulfillment of a promise made to the chiefs and people of the Western Region during his 2016 presidential campaign. He stressed that the establishment of the GNPC headquarters in Takoradi goes beyond a campaign commitment; it is a strategic effort to advance development in communities that significantly contribute to Ghana’s wealth through their land and sea resources.
“This is a very joyous occasion for the Western Region, for Mother Ghana, and for me personally,” President Akufo-Addo remarked.
“The completion of this promise demonstrates my government’s commitment to ensuring that the benefits of Ghana’s natural resources are enjoyed by those whose land and sea play a critical role in our nation’s prosperity.”
The construction of the state-of-the-art facility faced many challenges, including the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic and various logistical and financial issues.
Despite these obstacles, the project succeeded due to strategic planning and the steadfast support of the Western Region’s residents.
President Akufo-Addo expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in making the project a reality, including Regional Minister Hon. Kobby Okyere Darko Mensah, the Western Regional House of Chiefs, and the Regional Lands Commission.
“The new headquarters is strategically located to serve as the central hub for GNPC’s operations, especially in the Western Region, which is the core of Ghana’s oil and gas industry,” the President stated. He emphasized the practical advantages of positioning the facility in Takoradi, such as improved operational efficiency and closer collaboration with local stakeholders.
The establishment of the headquarters is expected to significantly benefit the local community. President Akufo-Addo outlined the direct and indirect job opportunities that will arise from GNPC’s presence, spanning from administrative to technical roles. The increased economic activity is also anticipated to boost local businesses, fostering overall economic growth in the region.
Additionally, President Akufo-Addo praised GNPC’s Foundation for its substantial investments, which have been based in Takoradi for the past seven years.
He highlighted that the Western Region has been a major beneficiary of the Foundation’s community development initiatives, including improvements in health, education, and sanitation infrastructure, as well as support for artisan training and other social impact programs.
In his speech, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the goal of making GNPC a top national oil company that can compete internationally. The new headquarters is a modern seven-storey building with a basement, featuring Smart Office Management Systems and advanced technology. It includes a 300-seater auditorium, a gym, a cafeteria, and a business center on the ground floor. The building is designed to be energy-efficient and aims to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certification.
The President also emphasized the importance of being responsible towards the environment and society when using petroleum resources.
He encouraged GNPC and other industry players to work closely with local communities, environmental groups, and regulators to follow best practices that reduce environmental impact.
“We must manage our resources wisely for future generations,” he said, stressing the need to balance economic growth with environmental care.
Additionally, President Akufo-Addo urged a stronger focus on local involvement in the oil and gas industry, calling for more support and development for local businesses and professionals so they can benefit from the sector.
As he concluded his speech, President Akufo-Addo expressed his sincere gratitude to the chiefs and people of the Western Region for their support and patience.
He congratulated the management and staff of GNPC on this remarkable achievement and officially declared the “GNPC Energy House” commissioned.
“May this new headquarters serve as a beacon of excellence, innovation, and progress in Ghana’s oil and gas industry,” President Akufo-Addo said.
“May God bless the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, and us all, and may God bless our homeland Ghana, and make her great and strong.”
The commissioning of the GNPC headquarters marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s journey towards harnessing its natural resources for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
