Minister of Energy and Green Transition, John Jinapor, has lauded Springfield Exploration and Production Limited for its courage and commitment in investing heavily in Ghana’s upstream petroleum sector, describing the company as a “trailblazer” among indigenous firms willing to take risks in oil exploration.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr. Jinapor commended Springfield for venturing into the challenging Afina-Sankofa block offshore Ghana, where it has conducted extensive exploration and appraisal work.
He emphasized that Springfield’s achievements reflect the growing confidence of local companies in Ghana’s oil industry, a development he said government must nurture through fairness and transparent engagement.
“Springfield is an indigenous Ghanaian company and so, as Minister, whatever I can do legitimately, fairly, within fair conscience to support a Ghanaian company, I’ll do it — and I have no regrets for that,” Mr. Jinapor stated. “However, I wouldn’t break the law, and I’ll put Ghana’s interest first.”
Mr. Jinapor’s comments follow an earlier statement released by his ministry announcing the commencement of negotiations between the government and Springfield for a potential takeover of the Afina oil block in the West Cape Three Points area.
He stressed, however, that any decision will depend on a credible, independent technical and commercial valuation of the field.
“If the field proves to have the potential, we will engage Springfield and give them whatever support is required. If it does not meet the criteria, forget about it — it’s as simple as that,” he said.
He welcomed the investment Springfield has made so far, but insisted that such claims must be verified through transparent, professional assessment.
“It’s not enough for Springfield to say they spent $200 million. Where did you spend it? Who did you pay? Did you even pay the right amount? There are standards, and we must ensure those are met,” he said. “Springfield has been working on the Afina Field. They conducted some exploration and believe strongly that the field holds huge potential. As a Ghanaian company, they have invested so much and reached a level where they think they need some support.”
Mr. Jinapor reaffirmed his stance that while government seeks to protect Ghana’s interests, it also recognizes the importance of empowering local companies that have demonstrated initiative and commitment.
“When an indigenous company has spent money, drilled, and conducted appraisals showing potential, I will not terminate that agreement,” he asserted. “We must encourage Ghanaian companies to venture into this space. But we will not do so blindly. Everything must be based on fair, transparent evaluation.”
Ultimately, the Minister said his goal is to promote value for money, local participation, and transparency in Ghana’s petroleum sector, ensuring that partnerships like GNPC’s engagement with Springfield serve both national and entrepreneurial interests.
