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Jinapor Reaffirms Government’s Commitment to Petroleum Hub Project

By
Ivy Hollys
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John Abdulai Jinapor reaffirms commitment to petroleum hub project

The Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Abdulai Jinapor, has reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to the Petroleum Hub Project, describing it as a key driver of Ghana’s future energy and economic transformation.

Mr. Jinapor made the remarks during an official visit to the Petroleum Hub Development Corporation (PHDC) head office in Accra on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. The visit formed part of his familiarisation tour of agencies under the Ministry of Energy.

He commended the Corporation for its continuous efforts to make Ghana a competitive destination for energy investment. The Minister emphasized that the Petroleum Hub Project is one of the country’s most ambitious undertakings in the petroleum value chain.

“The Petroleum Hub is not just an infrastructure project ,it represents a bold vision to attract major global investment, create jobs, and anchor Ghana’s transition to a value-driven energy economy,” he said.

Mr. Jinapor assured the management and staff of the government’s full support toward the successful delivery of the project. He encouraged them to maintain professionalism, innovation, and neutrality in their operations. He also hinted at upcoming stakeholder engagements to refine implementation plans and ensure long-term success.

CEO of PHDC, Dr. Toni Aubynn, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s visit and reaffirmed the Corporation’s commitment to advancing the project. He drew parallels with international examples such as Singapore, the Netherlands, and Malaysia, where similar hubs have stimulated industrial growth and large-scale employment.

“Malaysia’s hub created over 80,000 jobs in its first phase alone Ghana can achieve even greater impact, particularly for the youth of Jomoro and beyond,” Dr. Aubynn noted.

The Petroleum Hub Project, located in the Jomoro District of the Western Region, seeks to position Ghana as a leading downstream petroleum and petrochemical hub in West Africa, serving as a catalyst for industrialisation, exports, and the country’s green energy transition.

Energy Commission and GSS Conduct Nationwide Energy Use Survey

By
Ivy Hollys
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Energy Commission

The Energy Commission, in partnership with the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), is carrying out an Energy Use Survey to gather accurate data on how energy is consumed across different sectors of the economy. The survey focuses on energy use patterns, appliances, and efficiency practices.

The goal is to provide reliable information that will guide national energy planning, policy development, and efforts toward sustainable energy growth.

Trained enumerators will visit selected institutions and households to administer structured questionnaires. All information collected will be kept strictly confidential in line with the Statistical Service Act, 2019 (Act 1003). The data will be used only for statistical and policy planning purposes.

The Energy Commission and GSS are asking for full cooperation from respondents by granting enumerators access to the necessary information and personnel to complete their work.

They say participation will help the country build a more efficient and sustainable energy sector for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

Abetifi Presby SHS Advances Narrow NSMQ Win Over Oti Boateng SHS

By
Ivy Hollys
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Abetifi Presby SHS truimps in NSMQ contest

Abetifi Presbyterian Senior High School has advanced to the next stage of the 2025 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ) after a thrilling preliminary-round victory over Oti Boateng Senior High School. The contest, held at the SGS Auditorium, was one of the most competitive of the day.

Representing the Eastern Region, Abetifi Presby SHS edged out their rivals with 56 points, narrowly beating Oti Boateng SHS, who finished with 50 points. Sefwi Wiawso SHS from the Western North Region placed third with 16 points.

Both Abetifi Presby and Oti Boateng SHS showed strong intellect, quick thinking, and teamwork from the first round. Their fast-paced responses and confident delivery kept the audience engaged throughout. The lead changed several times, making the outcome uncertain until the final round.

The “Problem of the Day” round proved especially difficult. Abetifi Presby and Oti Boateng SHS each scored 2 out of 10 points, while Sefwi Wiawso SHS earned 1 point. Despite this, Abetifi Presby’s earlier strong performance gave them the edge to win.

The victory sparked loud cheers from Abetifi Presby’s students, teachers, and supporters who attended the event. The team thanked their fans for the encouragement and vowed to prepare harder for the next stage.

Although Oti Boateng SHS did not win, their impressive 50 points keep them in contention. They could still qualify for the one-eighth stage as one of the top five highest-scoring runner-up schools. Many spectators praised their effort, saying they deserve another chance.

The win adds to Abetifi Presby’s growing reputation as a strong NSMQ contender. As they move to the next stage, the school community remains confident and determined to go even further in the national competition.

Gifty Oware-Mensah Secures GH¢10m Payout In NSA Lawsuit

By
Ivy Hollys
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The Accra High Court has granted bail of GH¢10 million to former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA), Gifty Oware-Mensah, following her appearance in court on Wednesday, October 22.

Gifty Oware‑Mensah, Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA)
Gifty Oware‑Mensah, Former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Authority (NSA)

She faces five charges, including willfully causing financial loss to the state, stealing, money laundering, and using public office for personal gain. The charges stem from allegations of financial misconduct during her tenure at the NSA.

The case is linked to a nationwide verification exercise that uncovered widespread payroll irregularities. An initial audit revealed that while over 180,000 individuals were listed on the National Service payroll, only about 98,000 were verified as legitimate personnel. The remaining names were allegedly “ghost names,” resulting in an estimated loss of GH¢653 million to the state.

However, the Attorney-General’s office has since disclosed that a forensic audit conducted by the Auditor-General places the actual financial loss at GH¢2.2 billion significantly higher than earlier estimates. The charge sheet is expected to be amended to reflect this updated figure as investigations progress.

The case has drawn significant public interest, being described as one of the largest financial scandals in the history of the National Service scheme. Court proceedings are set to continue in the coming weeks. According to the Attorney-General’s office, the prosecution remains committed to ensuring accountability and recovering lost public funds.

Ayariga Defends Government’s MoU with U.S. on Deportation Deal

By
Ivy Hollys
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Mahama Ayariga

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has defended the government’s decision to sign an MoU with the United States on the deportation of some West African nationals. He dismissed claims from the Minority that the agreement requires parliamentary approval

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, October 22, Mr. Ayariga explained that the agreement was legally sound and did not fall under arrangements that must be approved by the legislature.

“The issue of the need for parliamentary ratification of the agreement with the United States to receive ECOWAS citizens being repatriated back to the sub-region has been widely debated,” he said. “If the appropriate legal advice to this House is that we should ratify it, we will consider so.”

He insisted that the government acted in the national interest and followed due legal processes, emphasising that the deal had already produced tangible benefits for Ghanaians.

“I can say with authority that the Majority approves of the arrangement and highly commends the government for negotiating the removal of the U.S. visa restrictions on Ghanaians,” he noted. “Given our business and social ties to America, these restrictions were going to be extremely burdensome to many Ghanaian businesses and families.”

The Minority has, however, questioned the legality of the MoU, arguing that any agreement with foreign policy implications must be brought before Parliament for approval in accordance with the Constitution.

Civil society group Democracy Hub has also waded into the issue, filing a case at the Supreme Court to seek legal interpretation and clarity on whether the agreement required parliamentary ratification.

Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom.

Kofi Asher Insists NDC Is Still Committed to Anti-LGBTQ Bill

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Mr. Kofi Asher, a youth communicator, speaking on Orange Sunrise, has firmly defended the National Democratic Congress (NDC) against claims that the party has slowed down its efforts in pushing for the passage of the anti-LGBTQ bill. He described such claims as deliberate attempts to mislead the public and create unnecessary tension around a sensitive national issue.

According to Mr. Asher, the NDC has not abandoned its stance on the anti-LGBTQ bill, as some critics have suggested. He dismissed suggestions that Hon. Samuel George, one of the leading voices behind the bill, has softened his position. “Hon. Sam George has not changed his words as people are claiming. He still stands by his position that the bill will be passed,” Mr. Asher clarified.

Mr. Asher also highlighted the Speaker of Parliament’s unwavering stance, emphasizing that the Speaker has vowed not to permit the acceptance of same-sex marriage in the country, even if it means risking his life.

“The NDC is still using the same energy we had in opposition, and nothing has changed,” he stated.

He explained that the anti-LGBTQ debate goes beyond politics, it touches the very foundation of Ghanaian cultural identity and values. According to him, Ghanaian society strongly rejects same-sex relationships because they conflict with traditional beliefs and moral principles.

Mr. Asher added that the delay in presenting the bill on the floor of Parliament does not mean the government has forgotten or abandoned it. He assured the public that officials are actively conducting internal consultations and following parliamentary procedures to ensure they pass the bill in accordance with the law.

He concluded by urging Ghanaians to remain patient and confident in the government’s dedication to protecting the nation’s moral fabric. “The party’s resolve to uphold the country’s moral and cultural principles has not diminished,” he assured.

KNUST to Make AI Course Compulsory for All Students Next Academic Year

By
Ivy Hollys
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Prof. Rita Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST
Prof. Rita Dickson, Vice Chancellor of KNUST

Starting from the 2025/2026 academic year, every student at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) will be required to take a one-credit course in Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Vice-Chancellor Professor Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson said the new course supports Ghana’s national AI strategy and KNUST’s goal of preparing students for a digital future. She explained that the Academic Board and Governing Council have already approved the course for implementation.

“Effective next academic year, every student will take a micro-credential course in AI through our e-learning platform. Students and staff who complete it will be certified to make them globally competitive,” Prof. Dickson said.

She made this known at the opening of the 11th KNUST Summer School on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. The three-day event is themed “Artificial Intelligence in Education.”

Since its launch in 2011, the KNUST Summer School has grown into one of the university’s main professional development programmes, expanding from 250 participants in its first year to hundreds today.

Prof. Dickson added that students can take the AI course at any stage of their studies, while staff who wish to enhance their digital skills will also be allowed to enrol.

“We cannot remain static. Our teaching methods must evolve to meet the demands of the modern world,” she said.

She also called for the responsible use of AI.

“We must learn to use AI tools and related technologies but not forget the ethics that guide their use. We must apply them wisely for the growth and development of our country,” she concluded.

Ex-First Lady Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings Dies, Aged 67

By
Adwoa Afranewaa
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Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana)
Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana)

Former First Lady of Ghana, Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings, has passed away at the Ridge Hospital in Accra at the age of 76. Family sources confirmed her death to CitiNewsroom.

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings (Former First Lady of the Republic of Ghana)

Nana Konadu was the wife of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings and Ghana’s longest-serving First Lady. Her tenure spanned both military and civilian administrations led by her husband from June to September 1979 under the Armed Forces Revolutionary Council (AFRC), and from December 1981 to January 1993 under the Provisional National Defence Council (PNDC). She continued in the role during President Rawlings’ two constitutional terms from 1993 to 2001.

Beyond her ceremonial duties, Nana Konadu was a trailblazer in women’s empowerment and political activism. She founded the 31st December Women’s Movement, which championed gender equality and social development. In 2012, she broke away from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to form the National Democratic Party (NDP), under whose banner she contested the 2016 presidential election becoming the first woman to run for Ghana’s presidency.

Although her 2012 bid was disqualified by the Electoral Commission for failing to meet nomination requirements, she remained active in politics and advocacy.

In 2018, she published her first book, It Takes a Woman, a 331-page biography chronicling her life from childhood in 1948 to her years of public service. The book was intended as the first of four volumes offering “deep insights into her political activism and experiences.”

Nana Konadu Agyeman Rawlings leaves behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and dedication to national development. Her contributions to Ghana’s political and social landscape remain deeply impactful.

Minority Informs Acting Chief Justice to Prepare for Vetting

By
Ivy Hollys
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Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin

The Minority in Parliament has called on Acting Chief Justice, Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, to adequately prepare for his upcoming vetting by the Appointments Committee.

This follows the formal referral of his nomination by President John Dramani Mahama to the committee, announced by Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin, during the House’s reconvening on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin raised concerns about the process leading to Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s nomination and assumption of office. He emphasized the need for transparency and thorough scrutiny.

“The one who has been nominated for the Chief Justice position must come prepared to earn the approval of the House. If you come unprepared and you do not have your judgments or we have questions about your role in your boss’s removal, you must answer. So, you have to prepare,” he stated.

The vetting process will allow the committee to examine the nominee’s judicial record, professional experience, and leadership capabilities before making a recommendation to the full House.

The Minority caucus has pledged to ensure the vetting is fair but rigorous, stressing the significance of the Chief Justice role in upholding the rule of law and judicial independence.

They underscored that the position must be entrusted to an individual who demonstrates integrity, competence, and a deep respect for the Constitution. Justice Baffoe-Bonnie’s vetting is expected to reignite national discourse on judicial appointments and institutional accountability.

Police Investigate Death of Senegalese Footballer in Ghana

By
Ivy Hollys
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Senegalese Footballer

The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a young Senegalese footballer who was found lifeless under unclear circumstances in Accra. The incident, which has drawn public concern in both Ghana and Senegal, has prompted collaboration between Ghanaian authorities and the Senegalese Football Federation to uncover the truth behind the tragedy.

Reports indicate that the deceased, a goalkeeper, had traveled to Ghana in search of sporting opportunities through the help of an alleged football agent. However, conflicting accounts about the events leading to his death have raised suspicion of possible foul play. According to police sources, the individual who reportedly transported the footballer to the hospital identified himself only as “Isa” and has since gone missing, further deepening the mystery.

Deputy National Communications Director of the governing party, Alhaji Kamal-Deen Abdulai, described the situation as “very sad,” urging the police to conduct a thorough investigation to dispel all doubts surrounding the young athlete’s death. He emphasized that Ghana remains a safe country and expressed hope that a transparent inquiry would help maintain Ghana’s image internationally.

Members of Parliament and civil society organizations have also called for improved security and hospital procedures to prevent similar occurrences. The Inspector-General of Police has assured both the Ghanaian and Senegalese public that the investigation will be pursued to its logical conclusion to ensure justice for the deceased and his family.

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