President Akuffo-Addo Commissions Oil Services Centre in Takoradi

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has commissioned a state-of-the-art oil and gas services centre at the Takoradi Port, marking a significant milestone in Ghana’s efforts to become a leading hub for oil and gas operations in West Africa. The $101 million project, funded by the government and executed by China Harbour Engineering Company, was completed in 2022.

The newly inaugurated facility boasts a 550-metre quay wall, 10-metre dredged berth pockets, 1.9 kilometres of access roads, utility services, and a 20-hectare serviced storage yard. Designed to establish a world-class shore-based logistics platform, the centre is equipped to support offshore oil and gas exploration and production activities. Key features include offshore supply vessel facilities and serviced waterfront land for engineering and fabrication activities.

Speaking at the commissioning, President Akufo-Addo described the project as a bold testament to Ghana’s progress in positioning itself as a competitive destination for oil and gas services. “This terminal will strengthen Ghana’s position as a leader in oil and gas operations. It is a hallmark of modern engineering and innovation,” he stated.

The President emphasized the facility’s potential to streamline offshore supply services and enhance heavy engineering and fabrication activities. He highlighted its role in reducing transit times and costs for petroleum exploration and drilling operations while optimizing supply chain management.

“This terminal will create employment opportunities, foster the transfer of advanced technology, and support local industries to thrive in the competitive global oil and gas market,” President Akufo-Addo added.

The commissioning of the oil and gas services centre is part of broader efforts by the Akufo-Addo administration to enhance Ghana’s economic competitiveness through modern infrastructure. The President recalled inaugurating the Atlantic Container and Multi-purpose Terminal and the new dry bulk terminal at the Takoradi Port two years ago, describing these investments as transformative projects critical to regional integration and economic growth.

“Today, we celebrate not just the commissioning of a facility but the realization of a vision; one that cements Ghana’s place as a leader in the oil and gas service sector and as a beacon of economic resilience and transformation,” he noted.

The President also provided updates on the government’s plans to establish Ghana’s third commercial port in Kedzi, within the Keta Municipality in the Volta Region. “Substantial progress has been made, including feasibility studies, stakeholder engagements, and an environmental impact assessment. I’m acutely aware of the anticipation and enthusiasm of the people of the Volta Region for this project,” he said.

The Minister of Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, and the Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, both lauded the President for his unwavering commitment to transforming Ghana’s ports. Michael Luguje, the Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), urged industry players with scattered warehouses across Sekondi-Takoradi to relocate to the new terminal for a more efficient one-stop-shop service.