Professor Patience Aseweh Abor, a lecturer at the University of Ghana and a member of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Board, has raised serious concerns about the growing trend of resource mismanagement by boards of state-owned enterprises (SOEs).
In a passionate statement shared on social media, she highlighted that some board members are exploiting their positions to siphon scarce resources meant for the organizations they govern.
Abor’s comments come in light of a recent directive from President Akufo-Addo banning international travel for board activities, a move that has been lauded by the professor as a necessary step towards curbing wasteful spending. Abor stressed that in today’s digital age, board activities can easily be conducted virtually, making international travel an unnecessary expense.
She emphasized that, beyond their oversight roles, board members are expected to contribute to mobilizing resources for the sustainable operation of their institutions. However, she noted with concern that instead of focusing on this responsibility, some board members are misappropriating funds for personal gain.
“The current economic situation in Ghana demands prudence and accountability,” Abor stated. “We cannot afford to use state resources for unnecessary international travel. Board meetings and engagements with external partners can be done effectively through virtual means.”
Abor praised the president’s leadership in taking steps to protect the public purse and urged all stakeholders to prioritize the efficient use of state funds for the greater good of the country.
Her post concluded with a message of gratitude to the president for his bold stance and a call for increased accountability within state-run entities:
“Thank you Mr. President for this bold show of leadership to protect the public purse. I absolutely agree with you, Sir. Good morning, Ghana; good morning, Africa.”
