John Jinapor (5th from left( and officials of Petroleum Commission
The Minister for Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has reiterated the government’s resolve to revitalize Ghana’s upstream petroleum sector, with a firm focus on expanding the country’s oil reserves to secure energy independence and long-term economic stability.
Speaking during a working visit to the Petroleum Commission in Accra, the Minister emphasized the vital role the Commission plays in Ghana’s energy development architecture.
Addressing management and staff, he praised their dedication and called for intensified efforts to grow national reserves and attract further investment into the upstream space.
“The importance of growing our national oil reserves cannot be overstated,” Jinapor said. “It is essential for our energy security and a vital pillar for long-term economic growth.”
The Minister noted with concern the trend of dwindling oil reserves in recent years and stated that his vision for the upstream sector includes turning this around through strategic policy direction, enhanced exploration efforts, and a strengthened regulatory framework. He further underscored the need to create a stable and investor-friendly environment that supports exploration and production activities.
In her response, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, Victoria Emeafa Hardcastle, thanked the Minister for the visit and for his continued leadership. She assured him of the Commission’s commitment to the national agenda, adding that the staff remain motivated to deliver on their mandate.
“We are fully aligned with your vision and will work tirelessly to help Ghana maximize its petroleum potential,” she said.
The visit marks the Minister’s ongoing engagement with key sector agencies as part of efforts to align institutional goals with the government’s broader energy transition and resource development strategies.
It also served as a renewed call to action for the Petroleum Commission to accelerate progress in exploration licensing, local content development, and regulatory reforms.
