NPA Announces Nationwide 24-Hour Fuel Station Operations
In a bold move to support Ghana's emerging 24-hour economy, the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has unveiled plans for round-the-clock operations at fuel stations across the country. NPA Chief Executive Godwin Kudzo Tameklo made the announcement during a high-level security meeting in Koforidua, emphasizing that this initiative will require unprecedented collaboration with security agencies to ensure safety.
Why This Matters Now
The policy comes as Ghana seeks to:
Boost nighttime economic activity
Create jobs across shifts
Improve convenience for shift workers and travelers
Align with President Mahama's 24-hour economy vision
However, the NPA chief acknowledged significant challenges: "Petroleum is both a valuable commodity and hazardous product. We cannot implement 24-hour operations without addressing the very real risks of fuel theft, armed robberies, and safety incidents."
The Security Blueprint for Nighttime Fuel Sales
1. Multi-Agency Security Task Force
The NPA is establishing a specialized unit combining:
National Intelligence Bureau (NIB)
NPA's intelligence team
Ghana Police Service
Customs Division
Ghana National Fire Service
"We're developing targeted training programs to help security personnel identify and prevent fuel-related crimes," Tameklo revealed.
2. High-Tech Monitoring Systems
Plans include: ✔ Real-time CCTV surveillance networks ✔ Digital tracking of fuel trucks ✔ Automated emergency alert systems
3. Regional Security Integration
Eastern Regional Minister Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey proposed embedding Regional Security Councils (REGSEC) into the NPA's operations nationwide—a model that could become standard across all 16 regions.
The Risks: Why Security Can't Be an Afterthought
Recent incidents highlight the dangers:
March 2025: Masked robbers attacked a Total station in Sekondi-Takoradi at dawn
2024: Over 12 reported cases of fuel siphoning and station robberies
2023: Kumasi gas explosion that killed 6 during nighttime operations
Energy analyst Dr. Amina Mensah warns: "The profit margins in fuel make stations attractive targets. Without proper safeguards, this policy could inadvertently boost illicit trade."
Industry Reaction: Optimism Tempered by Concerns
Fuel Station Owners
The Ghana Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (GCPC) welcomes the move but seeks clarity on:
Who bears additional security costs?
Insurance implications for nighttime operations
Compensation protocols for attack victims
Labor Unions
The Petroleum Workers Union demands: 🔹 Hazard pay for night shift staff 🔹 Revised safety training protocols 🔹 Guaranteed emergency response times
Global Lessons: What Ghana Can Learn
Successful 24-hour fuel models from: 🇿🇦 South Africa: Armed response units dedicated to stations 🇳🇬 Nigeria: Mandatory panic buttons at all pumps 🇲🇾 Malaysia: AI-powered license plate recognition systems
The Road Ahead: Phased Implementation Expected
Insiders suggest a 3-phase rollout:
Pilot program in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi (Q2 2025)
Regional expansion to 8 more cities (Q4 2025)
Nationwide implementation (Q2 2026)
Bottom Line: Progress Requires Protection
As Ghana takes this significant step toward a 24-hour economy, the NPA's collaboration with security agencies will determine whether the policy fuels growth or becomes prey to criminal elements. The coming months' pilot programs will prove critical.
"This isn't just about convenience—it's about building an ecosystem where businesses and consumers feel safe at all hours," Tameklo concluded.
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