Ben Nunoo Mensah, a name long associated with excellence in sports administration, is stepping into a new chapter, this time in the heart of Ghana’s energy sector.

The former President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), known for his hands-on leadership and reform-driven mindset, has been appointed to the newly reconstituted Board of Directors for the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR).

His appointment, announced during an official inauguration ceremony led by the Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Hon. John Abdulai Jinapor, underscores the government's confidence in Nunoo Mensah’s ability to contribute to the transformation of a key national asset.

Acting on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, Hon. Jinapor charged the new board with the urgent task of restoring TOR’s operations and positioning it once again as a cornerstone of Ghana’s energy infrastructure.

“Your foremost duty is to get TOR back on stream,” Hon. Jinapor told the board. “You must implement bold and strategic actions to return the refinery to profitability. TOR is not just another company; it is a vital national asset.”

Though better known for his contributions to Ghana’s sporting excellence, Ben Nunoo Mensah brings to TOR a wealth of leadership experience and a reputation for turning around struggling institutions.

His tenure at the GOC was marked by transparency, innovation, and a deep commitment to national pride, qualities that will be crucial in tackling TOR’s operational and financial challenges.

Speaking on behalf of the newly constituted board, Chairman Hon. Nayon Bilijo thanked President Mahama for the trust placed in them and assured the public of the board’s commitment to delivering results.

“We are honoured by this appointment and understand the enormity of the task ahead,” he said. “We will work with urgency and dedication to revive TOR and make it a viable and efficient institution once more.”

For Nunoo Mensah, this role signals a continuation of his public service journey, now extending from the sports arena to the energy sector, both of which play vital roles in nation-building.

His presence on the board offers a unique blend of strategic insight, people-first leadership, and a relentless drive for excellence.

As TOR seeks to regain its footing, the board is expected to develop and present a robust roadmap that addresses both immediate and long-term issues, ensuring the refinery contributes meaningfully to Ghana’s energy security.

Meet the Members of the New TOR Board:

Hon. Nayon Bilijo – Chairperson

Edmond Kombat Esq. – Acting Managing Director

Mr. Thomas Martey Laari – Member

Mr. Robert Kempes Ofosuhene – Member

Hon. Dr. Sebastian N. Sandaare – Member

Mr. Mugabe Saifu Maase – Member

Hon. Mohammed Issah Bataglia – Member

Osabarima Kyei Osafo Kantanka – Member

Mr. Ben Nunoo Mensah – Member

From Sammy Heywood Okine