The Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid has indicated that one of his major priorities will be to ensure that the regulator of the downstream petroleum sector is financially viable with the support of his management team.
He added that the NPA under his leadership, will deliver first class service to stakeholders in the petroleum downstream sector.
Speaking at the opening of a management retreat in Ada, Dr. Abdul-Hamid pointed out that the downstream sector is an important component of Ghana’s economic success.
He however cautioned that if the right things are not done to ensure efficiency and robustness, the industry may struggle to contribute to the expected revenue targets for national development.
According to him, a united front and team work among staff will ensure the objectives of the Authority are achieved.
Alluding to the manner in which the banking sector suffered due to wholesale granting of licenses, Dr. Abdul-Hamid said the same approach should not be adopted by the downstream sector.
He said licences for the establishment of petroleum retail outlets should be given to those who are willing and prepared to do business, contribute the right amount of taxes into state coffers and ensure the nation benefits.
Dr Abdul-Hamid noted that the third-party activities in the industry should not be encouraged, because it undermines the integrity of the sector and the operations of those doing the right things.
He also affirmed his commitment to improving efficiency of the NPA’s operations, improving staff morale as well as building the capacity of staff to deliver on his mandate.
The retreat is part of the Authority’s way to review its mid-year performance and expedite planned strategies to meet its target for the year.
