The Institute for Economic Research and Public Policy (IERPP) has warned that the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Bill, 2026, could weaken BOST Energies and put more than 300 jobs at risk if passed in its current form.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra, IERPP Executive Director Prof. Isaac Boadi called for the withdrawal and fundamental review of the Bill, arguing that some of its provisions could give the NPA and the sector minister excessive control over decisions that BOST needs to make independently.
Parliament is considering the Bill as part of efforts to strengthen regulation of Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector, including the storage, transportation and distribution of fuel.
Prof. Boadi said BOST’s role in managing Ghana’s strategic fuel reserves and maintaining petroleum infrastructure makes its financial and operational strength critical to the country’s fuel security.
IERPP estimates that if BOST’s financial position is weakened, close to 50% of its 658-member workforce could be affected, potentially resulting in more than 300 job losses.
The Institute said such an outcome would also conflict with efforts to create and protect jobs under the government’s 24-hour economy programme.
IERPP further questioned the rationale for measures it believes could constrain BOST at a time when the company has reported significant financial improvement.
BOST recorded GH¢3.81 billion in revenue and GH¢683.96 million in profit after tax for 2025, according to figures announced at its 2026 Annual General Meeting. The company also paid its first-ever dividend of GH¢34.2 million to the government.
IERPP is therefore calling for the Bill to be withdrawn for further review and wants BOST’s mandate, including responsibility for strategic reserves and petroleum infrastructure, to be clearly protected.
The Institute is also demanding a transparent and cost-reflective tariff system, dedicated funding for strategic reserves and measures to prevent what it considers unfair competition from private depots.
Prof. Boadi maintained that the NPA should remain an effective regulator without taking over the commercial and operational functions required for BOST to fulfil its national mandate.
