IERPP calls for review of NPA Bill, warns of risks to BOST and fuel security

The Institute for Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) has urged Parliament and the government to withdraw and thoroughly review the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Bill, 2026. The concern stems from potential risks to the Bulk Oil Storage and Transportation (BOST) Energies' operational and financial independence if the bill proceeds as written.

Prof. Isaac Boadi, IERPP's Executive Director, pointed out that BOST has significantly improved its financial performance in 2025, increasing total revenue by 189 percent from GH¢1.33 billion in 2024 to GH¢3.84 billion in 2025. Despite this growth, IERPP argues that the NPA Bill could undermine BOST's independence and raise questions about its ability to manage strategic fuel reserves, operate national depot and pipeline networks, and maintain competitiveness.

The institute emphasizes BOST's national-security role in managing Ghana's strategic fuel reserves and warns that weakening the company could impact fuel availability and security. IERPP also highlighted concerns over job losses, suggesting that nearly half of BOST's 658 employees could be at risk if the company is weakened financially or operationally.

The institute's seven demands to government and Parliament include withdrawal and comprehensive review of the NPA Bill, clear definition and protection of BOST's mandate, retention of strategic fuel reserves under national control, dedicated government funding for strategic reserves and critical infrastructure, and measures to prevent unfair competition.

Prof. Boadi stressed that the aim should be to strengthen BOST rather than weaken it, urging Parliament to reconsider the Bill in its current form.