Nigeria To Ban Movement Of Inflammable Products During Day Time
Nigeria is considering a ban on movement of inflammable products on its road during day time.
This move is aimed at preventing further loss of lives due to recent fuel tanker explosions which claimed several lives in different parts of the country.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, NSCDC, Ebonyi Command, which is pushing for the ban, believes it is time such decisive action was taken to prevent loss of lives and properties.
The Corps Commandant, Francis Nnadi, is worried about crashes involving articulated vehicles with such inflammable products.
He further called on other security agencies in the country to collaborate and end the incessant gas explosion.
The Commandant recalled the incident in Niger State where many lives were lost and the recent event in Ugwu-Onyeama in the Enugu State.
“Let us stop these tanker ladden with inflammable materials plying the road at day time when the roads are choked.
“We recommend this to governments to enforce it. All filling station owners, gas owners, if you have to move in your products here, let it be when the roads are less busy, especially at night.
“We have to stop these tanker drivers from operating in the day time and call for a meeting with the association because this incidents don’t happen at night.
“My take is, let’s have a holistic approach to it by educating these tanker drivers,” he said.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: Oil Revenue Hits $517 Million In Second Half 2024
Ghana has generated an impressive $517 million in crude oil revenues during the second half of 2024, according to the Bank of Ghana’s latest report.
This significant influx of revenue is a testament to the country’s thriving oil industry and its crucial role in driving economic growth.
The report reveals that $369 million of the total revenue accrued from crude oil liftings at the Jubilee, TEN, and Sankofa Gye Nyame oil and gas fields, with the liftings occuring between July and October.
Additionally, the upstream petroleum sector contributed $144 million in corporate taxes, while Planet One Oil and Gas Limited paid $74,000 in surface rental fees.
The Ghana Petroleum Funds also received a substantial allocation of $454 million, with the Ghana Heritage Fund getting $136.2 million and the Ghana Stabilization Fund receiving $317.8 million.
These funds play a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of Ghana’s petroleum revenue management framework.
The steady flow of oil revenue has been instrumental in supporting key sectors such as energy, transportation, and education.
Moreover, the Ghana Stabilization Fund provides a crucial buffer against external shocks, shielding the economy from volatile global oil prices.
As Ghana continues to reap the benefits of its oil industry, this significant revenue boost is expected to contribute to the country’s economic growth and fiscal resilience.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: ECG Denies Responsibility For Koforidua Fire Outbreak At Private Property
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has denied responsibility for a fire that gutted a residential property in Two-Streams, a suburb of Koforidua in the Eastern Region.
This follows media reports alleging that an ECG disconnection exercise sparked a fire at a residential facility in Two-Streams.
According to ECG, the said customer who is indebted to ECG to the tune of GHC 6,519.38 customer resisted the disconnection and further threatened the ECG staff with a machete.
Sensing danger, the ECG staff called for Police assistance, and in the presence of the Police, the ECG team disconnected the facility directly from the pole outside the facility
A statement issued by ECG on Monday (27 January) said the fire incident in question happened later after the disconnection.
”The attention of the Electricity Company of Ghana Limited (ECG) has been drawn to online publications accusing ECG staff of causing fire to a residential facility at Two-Streams in Koforidua, after a disconnection exercise. ECG wishes to state clearly that the allegations are completely false and must be ignored.
”The ECG post-paid customer in question owes ECG to the tune of GHC6,519.38 since September 2024 and has been disconnected for non-payment of bills. On 24th January 2025, as part of the ongoing revenue mobilization exercise (Operation Keep the Lights On), the ECG team visited the customer’s facility and discovered an illegal self-reconnection by the customer, and the team decided to disconnect the customer for the illegality.”
”The customer resisted the disconnection, and threatened the ECG staff with a machete. Sensing danger, the ECG staff called for Police assistance, and in the presence of the Police, the ECG team disconnected the facility directly from the pole outside the facility. The fire outbreak, per the reports, occurred later in the day, hours after our team had left the area of the incident,” the statement said.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
African Energy Ministers, Nocs And Regulators Stand Out Among AEC’s 2025 Movers And Shakers
Key African energy ministers, national oil companies (NOCs) and regulators have been recognized for their contributions to advancing hydrocarbon exploration, LNG megaprojects and policy reforms in the African Energy Chamber’s Top 40 Movers and Shakers to Watch in 2025 list.
Namibia’s Tom Alweendo, Minister of Mines and Energy, is at the forefront of the country’s emerging oil industry. With first oil expected by 2029 and a pioneering local content policy in place, Minister Alweendo is focused on translating Orange Basin discoveries into tangible development, while balancing investor and community needs.
In the Republic of Congo, Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, has led milestones including the country’s first LNG exports and the Banga Kayo gas project.
As Congo prepares for a 2025 licensing round and implements its Gas Master Plan, Minister Itoua’s leadership will be critical in positioning the country as a leading energy hub.
Equatorial Guinea’s Antonio Oburu Ondo, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons, is driving efforts to reverse declining oil and gas production.
Minister Ondo is tasked with securing investment, implementing the Gulf of Guinea gas pipeline project with Nigeria, and advancing the Yoyo-Yolanda gas project to revitalize the country’s energy sector.
Africa’s leading NOCs and regulators were also recognized for their pivotal role in driving energy sector developments in 2025. Godfrey Moagi, CEO of South Africa’s National Petroleum Company (SANPC), is spearheading efforts to develop the Brulpadda and Luiperd discoveries, while advancing gas-to-power projects at Saldanha Bay, Richards Bay and Coega LNG terminals. Moagi’s leadership will determine SANPC’s ability to establish itself as a key player in the country’s energy transition.
In Angola, Sebastião Gaspar Martins, CEO of Sonangol, is driving a sweeping transformation to restore the company’s profitability. With strategic partnerships, operational streamlining and the sale of non-core assets, Sonangol is poised to emerge as a more efficient and competitive entity under his guidance.
Maxient Raoul Ominga, Managing Director of SNPC, is spearheading initiatives in the Republic of Congo to boost oil production to 500,000 barrels per day. Through the development of key fields and implementation of the Gas Master Plan, Ominga is positioning Congo as a competitive gas player while reducing flaring and diversifying revenue streams.
In Ivory Coast, Fatoumata Sanogo, CEO of PETROCI, is driving hydrocarbon development through strategic partnerships with TotalEnergies and Eni. With the Baleine field development on track to significantly boost production by 2025, PETROCI is cementing the country’s position as a regional energy hub.
Sylvia dos Anjos, Head of E&P at Petrobras, is leading the Brazilian NOC’s ambitious re-entry into Africa, targeting markets in Namibia, South Africa and Angola. Her vision focuses on leveraging untapped reserves to establish Petrobras as a competitive player and strengthen Brazil’s partnership with Africa.
In Sierra Leone, Foday Mansaray, Director General of the Petroleum Directorate, is fostering investment in offshore oil and gas exploration. Following the successful conclusion of Sierra Leone’s fifth licensing round, Mansaray is focused on turning interest into tangible exploration and production gains.
As Africa’s energy future continues to unfold, the AEC remains committed to recognizing and supporting the leaders who are making transformative impacts in the sector.
Source: Energy Chamber
Tanzania: Mission 300 Energy Summit Gathers Africa’s Leaders And Partners To Transform The Energy Sector
African heads of state, business leaders, and development partners have converge in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, for the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit where they will commit to ambitious reforms and actions to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to 300 million people in Africa by 2030.
Mission 300 is an unprecedented collaboration between the African Development Bank, the World Bank Group, and global partners to address Africa’s electricity access gap using new technology and innovative financing.
Nearly 600 million Africans lack electricity, which is crucial for development and job creation.
Several heads of state and government from Africa will join more than 1,000 other participants—with strong representation from the private sector—at the January 27-28 summit.
Together, they will chart Africa’s course toward universal access to energy.
This week’s summit is expected to yield two significant outcomes: the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration, outlining commitments and practical actions from African governments to reform the energy sector, and the first set of National Energy Compacts, which will serve as blueprints with country-specific targets and timelines for implementation of critical reforms.
In the first phase, 12 countries will present their energy compacts: Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Other African countries are expected to develop their compacts in subsequent phases.
The partnerships forged and commitments made by the continent’s leaders and changemakers will shape the continent’s journey toward achieving universal energy access, transforming millions of lives, and driving sustainable development and job creation.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Poland Warns Against Restarting Russia Gas Supplies
Poland’s president has said that gas flows from Russia to Western Europe should never be restored, even if Russia and Ukraine reach a peace deal.
Andrzej Duda told the BBC that the Nord Stream gas pipelines, which have not been used since 2022, “should be dismantled”.
This, he said, would mean the likes of Germany would not be tempted to restore Russian supplies to boost its own struggling economy.
“I can only hope that European leaders will learn lessons from Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and that they will push through a decision to never restore the pumping of gas through this pipeline,” he said.
The Polish president, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, insisted that economic sanctions against Russia were working and European countries should resist pressure from companies to re-establish business links.
The Nord Stream gas pipelines were built by Russia’s gas giant Gazprom and run between Russia and northern Germany.
Nord Stream 1 was shut down in 2022 and Nord Stream 2 was never used, following the invasion of Ukraine. Both were damaged by explosions in 2022.
Gas prices in Europe surged after the shutdown and, in recent months, politicians from Germany’s far right AfD party have suggested the Nord Stream gas pipes should resume operations.
Germany will hold federal elections at the end of February.
“I believe the Nord Stream pipelines should be dismantled,” Duda said. “This pipeline causes a very big threat to Ukraine, to Poland, to Slovakia but also to other Central European countries.”
He added: “It is a threat from the point of view of energy, from the point of view of the military but also it is a huge economic threat because it means a domination of Russia over Europe in the economic sense.”
On the prospect of a deal between Ukraine and Russia now that US President Donald Trump has taken office, Duda insisted that no peace talks could take place without the participation of Ukraine.
“I’m saying that in my capacity as president of the Republic of Poland, as a neighbour to Ukraine and also as president of a country who has had very hard historic experiences itself,” he said.
“I’m speaking here and referring to World War Two and to Yalta where we were not included in those talks, where certain agreements were made beyond our heads and then we found ourselves behind the Iron Curtain, where, for almost 50 years, we were part of the Soviet sphere of influence,” he said.
Trump had previously said he would negotiate a settlement to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine launched in February 2022 in 24 hours – he has since acknowledged it could take some time.
Duda said it would be “a violation of international law” for Russia to be allowed to hold on to territory it has occupied in Ukraine.
President Vladimir Putin has said he is prepared to negotiate an end to the war, which first began in 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea, but Ukraine would have to accept the reality of Russian territorial gains, which are currently about 20% of its land.
Putin also refuses to accept Ukraine joining Nato, the military alliance of Western countries.
Duda said: “The international community cannot agree, and it is unacceptable that Russia would take certain territories of Ukraine and keep them by force. This is unacceptable.
“We must not let Russia win this war.”
Duda said Trump “understands the region” and US involvement would be key.
“President Donald Trump – as the leader of the most powerful country within Nato, as the leader of the most powerful economy – will be of key importance,” said Duda.
“I am waiting peacefully for the first steps which will be taken by Donald Trump.”
Source: BBC
Burkina Faso Makes History With Unveiling Of Its First Locally Made Electric Car
Burkina Faso has made history with the unveiling of its first locally made electric car, designed and manufactured entirely by local company ITAOUA.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the Ouaga Mall on Tuesday, 21st January 2025, was attended by Serge Gnaniodem PODA, Minister of Industry, Trade and Crafts, custom authorities, prominent public figures, as well as Burkinabe artists and celebrities.
This groundbreaking achievement showcases the country’s growing industrial and technological capabilities and is set to transform transportation in Burkina Faso and beyond.
The electric car boasts impressive features, including a 30-minute charging time and a range of 330 kilometers. Its efficiency makes it an ideal choice for both urban and rural settings, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and cutting the country’s carbon footprint.
ITAOUA’s achievement highlights the determination and ingenuity of Burkinabe engineers, designers, and workers, representing a significant step towards industrial independence.
This innovation is expected to generate thousands of jobs in manufacturing, sales, maintenance, and renewable energy sectors, paving the way for further economic development.
As the car gains traction, it has the potential to become a valuable export, boosting the nation’s economy.
Burkina Faso’s commitment to sustainability and reducing dependence on imported cars and fossil fuels is underscored by this innovation, inspiring not only the nation but also other countries to invest in local talent and embrace sustainability.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
ITAOUA’s achievement highlights the determination and ingenuity of Burkinabe engineers, designers, and workers, representing a significant step towards industrial independence.
This innovation is expected to generate thousands of jobs in manufacturing, sales, maintenance, and renewable energy sectors, paving the way for further economic development.
As the car gains traction, it has the potential to become a valuable export, boosting the nation’s economy.
Burkina Faso’s commitment to sustainability and reducing dependence on imported cars and fossil fuels is underscored by this innovation, inspiring not only the nation but also other countries to invest in local talent and embrace sustainability.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Ghana: CEMSE Proposes Three Steps To Revamp TOR
The Centre for Environmental Management and Sustainable Energy (CEMSE) has proposed three immediate measures to revamp the state-owned ailing Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).
CEMSE wants the government to consider TOR to file for bankruptcy to facilitate the reorganisation of the company under court supervision.
The other option is for the government to restructure TOR and inject liquidity to address TOR’s liabilities and exploring Concession Agreements with the private sector.
According to the CSO, any of this options would help the debt-ridden refinery to return to its former glory.
The Executive Director, Benjamin Nsiah, made these proposals in a statement copied to this portal.
Below Is The Full Statement
CURRENT STATE OF TEMA OIL REFINERY: INSTITUTIONAL SOLUTIONS FOR
A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
The Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), formally GHAIP began operations as a tolling refinery,
processing crude oil from multinational oil companies. Through years of reforms and
restructuring, it has added importation of petroleum products, storage and distribution across the country to its operations. With the introduction of Bulk Distribution Companies, the business model reformed to tolling and terminal business as well as laboratory services.
Current state of the company
The Total Equity of TOR has been on a decline since 2019 signifying financial distress. In
2019, TOR recorded negative equity of Ghc2,444.16 million, which deteriorated to
Ghc5,737.38 million in 2023, representing worsened percentage change of about 135%.
Total Equity declined annually by about Ghc823.31 million, representing about 25.76% drop per year, with the average Total Equity standing at Ghc-3,581.67 million. This situation indicates that over Ghc6 billion would be required to improve the liquidity position and restore financial stability. However, given the current liquidity constraints of government, securing Ghc6 billion to turn it around and make it viable for business will be a challenge.
The situation of TOR is furthermore, worsened by its financial performance. It has been recording net losses since 2019 with the highest net loss of Ghc1.6 billion recorded in 2022, while 2023 recorded a net loss of Ghc1.3 billion. Furthermore, between 2019 and 2013, TOR made an average net loss of Ghc793.42 annually and has been recording negative Return to
Assets reflecting poor and inefficient management.
Surprisingly, a company that is making huge losses year on year with negative equities still
keeps over 500 employees. TOR is currently overstaffed with over 500 employees, leading to redundancy. Meanwhile, at its current capacity, only 150 employees is needed to efficiently
handle the operation of TOR.
The company’s current state of near-collapse, compounded by a large number of redundant
employees, requires urgent reassessment. Below are our recommendations to revitalize TOR:
Recommendations
1. Filing for Bankrupcy:
The government could consider filing for bankruptcy to facilitate the reorganizing of the
company under court supervision. This process will allow TOR to restructure its debts and operations while temporarily halting activities. Additionally, it will enable the government to
rationalize payroll costs by retrenching redundant employees and streamline operations for efficiency.
2. Restructuring and Liquidity Injection
The government could also restructure TOR by committing to injecting liquidity to address the
liabilities of the company. Given the issue of liquidity constraints of government, it could
negotiate extensions of existing debts or explore debt-for-equity swaps, allowing creditors to
partially own and operate the company. This approach will likely attract private sector interest to improve assets management and enhance ensure technical and managerial efficiency.
3. Exploring Concession Agreements
Government could also consider concession model where the government grants private entities the right to invest and operate TOR’s infrastructure for a specified period. This
approach leverages private sector investment and expertise while allowing the government to retain ownership of public assets.
However, to ensure concession is successful, the contract
must be careful designed and monitored to balance public and private interests effectively and
sustainably.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: National Chief Imam Makes Historic Visit To BOST
Ghana’s National Chief Imam, Alhaji Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Shaributu, paid a heartfelt visit to the head office of Bulk Energy Storage and Transport (BEST) Company, formerly BOST, in Accra, to congratulate the newly appointed Managing Director, Mr Afetsi Awoonor.
The visit was a special one as Mr Awoonor is considered a son of the Chief Imam, with a deep family bond.
During the visit, the Chief Imam expressed his congratulations and acknowledged the immense responsibility placed upon Mr Awoonor, who makes history as the youngest-ever appointee to the position of MD of BOST.
Mr Awoonor, who has a wealth of experience in the industry and had previously served as a Manager at BOST, is poised to lead the organisation towards achieving its strategic objectives.
The Chief Imam took the opportunity to share wise words of encouragement, admonishing the MD and his management team to deliver on the expectations of Ghanaians and the President.
He emphasised the importance of dedication, integrity and commitment to service, wishing them success in their new endeavours. The visit culminated in a moment of prayer in which the Chief Imam sought divine guidance and blessings for Afetsi Awoonor and the entire BOST management team.
Alhaji Dr Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Shaributu’s visit was not only a testament to the personal bonds between the two families but also highlighted the importance of leadership in driving progress and development within the country’s strategic sectors.
As the youngest MD in BOST’s history, Afetsi Awoonor reiterated his readiness and commitment to the responsibilities of the high office with a spirit of determination and innovation.
The trust placed in him by both the President and the Chief Imam serves as a powerful reminder of the legacy and responsibilities that come with leadership in Ghana.
The visit marked the beginning of a promising chapter for BOST under Afetsi Awoonor’s stewardship, and with the support and prayers of esteemed leaders like Alhaji Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Shaributu, the organisation is set to navigate new horizons for the benefit of all Ghanaians.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Mr Awoonor, who has a wealth of experience in the industry and had previously served as a Manager at BOST, is poised to lead the organisation towards achieving its strategic objectives.
The Chief Imam took the opportunity to share wise words of encouragement, admonishing the MD and his management team to deliver on the expectations of Ghanaians and the President.
He emphasised the importance of dedication, integrity and commitment to service, wishing them success in their new endeavours. The visit culminated in a moment of prayer in which the Chief Imam sought divine guidance and blessings for Afetsi Awoonor and the entire BOST management team.
Alhaji Dr Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Shaributu’s visit was not only a testament to the personal bonds between the two families but also highlighted the importance of leadership in driving progress and development within the country’s strategic sectors.
As the youngest MD in BOST’s history, Afetsi Awoonor reiterated his readiness and commitment to the responsibilities of the high office with a spirit of determination and innovation.
The trust placed in him by both the President and the Chief Imam serves as a powerful reminder of the legacy and responsibilities that come with leadership in Ghana.
The visit marked the beginning of a promising chapter for BOST under Afetsi Awoonor’s stewardship, and with the support and prayers of esteemed leaders like Alhaji Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Shaributu, the organisation is set to navigate new horizons for the benefit of all Ghanaians.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Angola: Fuel Tanker Loaded With 35,000 Litres Of Gasoline Seized
The Angolan Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) has seized a tanker truck loaded with 35,000 liters of smuggled gasoline in Caungula, Lunda-Norte province.
The fuel was destined for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where it would be sold.¹
According to SIC spokesperson Graciano Lumanhe, the seizure occurred while the perpetrator was transferring fuel into 250-liter plastic barrels for transportation to the DRC.
The tanker truck and the perpetrator were also apprehended.
The seized fuel will be included in the criminal case against the perpetrator and forwarded to the Public Prosecutor’s Office for further action.
This operation is part of SIC’s efforts to combat fuel smuggling and other related crimes in the region.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Ghana: NPA’s Acting CEO Vows To Take Authority To The Next Level
The newly appointed Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Mr. Godwin Edudzi Tameklo Esq, has affirmed his commitment to elevating the Authority and advancing the country’s petroleum downstream industry.
The NPA is a regulator of Ghana’s petroleum downstream.
In his maiden address to the management and staff of the NPA in Accra on Monday, Mr. Tameklo pledged to advance the vision of His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama to transform the industry.
Reflecting on his appointment, he recalled that President Mahama, while presenting him with the instrument of office, emphasized the need for a new approach. “It is not going to be business as usual,” Mr. Tameklo stated, adding that he would work in alignment with the President’s vision.
He promised to lead with fairness and an open mind, stressing, “My philosophy is teamwork.” Additionally, he assured the staff of his commitment to their well-being, saying, “I will ensure that your welfare is taken care of.”
Mr. Tameklo called for the full cooperation of the staff to achieve the Authority’s mandate and uplift the petroleum downstream industry. “In the spirit of cooperation, let’s work together to make the Authority the very best,” he urged.
In his remarks, the NPA Welfare Chairman, Mr. Ernest Ayeh-Datey, congratulated Mr. Tameklo on his appointment and assured him of the staff’s readiness to support and collaborate with him for the success of the Authority.
Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo is a distinguished legal professional with a solid academic and professional foundation. He holds an LLM in Natural Resources (Downstream Petroleum) from the University of Ghana and completed the Professional Law Course at the Ghana School of Law. He was called to the Ghana Bar in 2013.
Currently, Mr. Tameklo serves as a Partner at Ayine & Partners Law Firm, specializing in criminal, civil, and commercial litigation. With over a decade of legal experience, he has earned a reputation for delivering sound legal opinions and offering strategic counsel to diverse organizations.
Beyond his legal practice, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, serving as the Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He has also contributed to high-profile committees, including the 2024/2025 Transition Sub-Committee for Legal and Governance and the 2024 NDC Manifesto Committee.
Renowned for his strong research, analytical, and interpersonal skills, Mr. Tameklo is a self-driven, open-minded, and collaborative team player.
His extensive expertise in litigation and strategic advisory roles highlights his commitment to excellence, societal progress, and fostering positive change.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Mr. Godwin Kudzo Tameklo is a distinguished legal professional with a solid academic and professional foundation. He holds an LLM in Natural Resources (Downstream Petroleum) from the University of Ghana and completed the Professional Law Course at the Ghana School of Law. He was called to the Ghana Bar in 2013.
Currently, Mr. Tameklo serves as a Partner at Ayine & Partners Law Firm, specializing in criminal, civil, and commercial litigation. With over a decade of legal experience, he has earned a reputation for delivering sound legal opinions and offering strategic counsel to diverse organizations.
Beyond his legal practice, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, serving as the Director of Legal Affairs for the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He has also contributed to high-profile committees, including the 2024/2025 Transition Sub-Committee for Legal and Governance and the 2024 NDC Manifesto Committee.
Renowned for his strong research, analytical, and interpersonal skills, Mr. Tameklo is a self-driven, open-minded, and collaborative team player.
His extensive expertise in litigation and strategic advisory roles highlights his commitment to excellence, societal progress, and fostering positive change.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com Ghana: GNPC Welcomes New CEO Edward Bawa
Ghana’s national oil company, GNPC, has welcomed its newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Edward Abambire Bawa. Mr. Bawa, a former legislator for the Bongo Constituency in the Upper West Region, succeeds Mr. Joseph Dadzie, who served as CEO until January 16, 2025.
Hon. Bawa brings over two decades of experience in energy policy, management, and public service to the role.
A statement issued by Eric Pwadura, Manager of Corporate Affairs at GNPC, described Mr. Bawa as a distinguished leader and energy sector expert. According to the statement, Bawa is currently pursuing a PhD in Global Energy Policy at EUCLID University.
In his new role, Mr. Bawa is expected to commit to fostering operational efficiency, innovation, and sustainability to position GNPC as a key player in Ghana’s energy sector and Africa’s energy transition. He envisions GNPC as a corporation that delivers measurable impact through strategic partnerships, workforce empowerment, and cutting-edge technologies.
According to the statement, arrangements are being made for Mr. Bawa to engage stakeholders in the coming weeks. The statement encouraged all GNPC staff, partners, and stakeholders to extend their support and cooperation to him as he steers the corporation toward greater achievements.
Profile
Mr. Bawa holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Cape Coast and a Master of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Liverpool. Before his appointment, Hon. Bawa served as a Member of Parliament for the Bongo Constituency from 2017 to 2025, during which he played a pivotal role in shaping energy legislation and policy.
He served on the Parliamentary Committees on Mines and Energy and Communications, contributing significantly to Ghana’s energy reforms.
His experience also includes his work as a Communications Consultant for the World Bank Oil and Gas Capacity Building Project at the Ministry of Energy, where he spearheaded stakeholder engagement and public advocacy for critical energy initiatives.
Hon. Bawa is certified in petroleum revenue management, upstream agreements, and energy commercialization. His leadership expertise extends beyond government, with technical and advisory roles on various energy committees and task forces.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Cyprus Takes Step Forward In Becoming EU’s Reliable Natural Gas Source
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides has announced the commencement of exploratory drilling for natural gas in the Electra prospect, located offshore Cyprus.
The drilling operations, which began on Friday, are a collaborative effort between US oil and gas giant ExxonMobil and QatarEnergy.
This development is part of Cyprus’s strategic efforts to establish itself as a reliable source of natural gas for the European Union.
“Cyprus progresses exploration activities, aiming to be an alternative and reliable source of natural gas for the EU,” said President Christodoulides on X formerly Twitter.
ExxonMobil had previously announced plans to start drilling in January 2025, targeting natural gas in the offshore region.
The company’s Vice-President for Global Exploration, John Ardill, had expressed optimism about the prospects, stating, “There is huge potential for gas exploration.”
Ardill described the Electra prospect as “highly promising” after collecting detailed 3D seismic data over the past two years.
The successful exploration and extraction of natural gas in Cyprus could significantly contribute to the EU’s energy security and diversity. As the drilling operations progress, Cyprus is poised to become a key player in the regional energy landscape.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com
Nigeria: Fuel Tanker Explosion Kills 18 People In Enugu
At least 18 people were killed on Saturday following a tanker explosion on Ugwu-Onyeama axis of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a statement by Federal Road Safety Corps has revealed.
The incident happened on Saturday at about 11:30 a.m. when a fuel-laden tanker had a brake failure, fell and exploded leaving 11 commuters dead. The death toll rose to 18 on Sunday.
The deceased were evacuated by the FRSC officers after officials of the Enugu State Fire Service had extinguished the inferno, while the injured were taken to hospitals in Enugu for treatment.
The Sector Commander of the FRSC, Enugu State Command, Franklin Agbakoba, said the additional seven deceased were victims of the accident, who were rushed to nearby hospitals but could not make it.
Mr Agbakoba disclosed that 11 vehicles were burnt in the unfortunate incident.
They included one fuel tanker, one water tanker and 15 other vehicles, as well as one tricycle, popularly known as “Keke”.
“Currently, the death toll from the unfortunate accident is 18 persons, and we continue to pray for their souls to have eternal rest.
“However, three persons were not injured but profiled; and they have since rejoined their families and friends,” he said.
Mr Agbakoba lauded Gov. Peter Mbah, the state commissioner for Transportation, Obi Ozor, the police, the Enugu State Fire Service and health officials, among others, that came to render help and rescue at the scene.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com