By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a noteworthy move to improve fuel accessibility in remote areas, NP (SL) Limited has officially inaugurated the Abyei Gas Station located along the Jendema Highway in Sorogbema Chiefdom, Pujehun District. The grand opening, held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, marked the company's continued efforts to address fuel shortages in underserved regions.

The new facility, which adds to the growing network of NP petrol stations, is owned and financed by Lahai Sandy Koroma, a development-driven native of Sorogbema. This new station complements his existing petrol stations in Bo City and Zimmi, further expanding his contribution to local development.

The event, attended by key stakeholders including traditional leaders, security personnel, representatives from the Drivers Union, the Bike Riders Union (BRU), youth groups, the media and other community members, was a moment of celebration and anticipation for the community.

Chiefdom Speaker, Augustine Jah Zoker, welcomed the development, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the investment. He emphasized that the station would help alleviate long-standing fuel shortages in the region and called on NP to continue providing high-quality service to the community.

Representing NP’s CEO, Sales Manager, Ing. Vandy Bockarie praised the people of Sorogbema for their unwavering support and acknowledged the Gone community for graciously providing the land for the project. He further announced that both Gone and Jendema would now officially be recognized as a city, ensuring a boost in the area's development. With a 45,000-liter capacity, the station will operate daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, offering standard pricing and professional service.

The opening ceremony also saw support from security officials. ASP Michael A. Vanboy, the Support Officer from the Mano River Union Division Police, welcomed the station’s establishment, committing to providing security for the facility and ensuring its protection from criminal activities.

Chief Mohamed Keiwei, the Town Chief of Gone, extended thanks to Lahai Sandy Koroma and the landholding family for their role in making the project a reality. He assured that the community would work together to safeguard the facility for the benefit of all.

Representatives from the transport sector also expressed appreciation for the project. Drivers Union Chairman, William Peal, highlighted the previous difficulties in accessing fuel and stated that the new station would significantly ease their burden. Bike Riders Union Chairman, Lahai Zoker, urged the station's staff to uphold high service standards, noting that the facility's reputation must reflect NP's commitment to excellence.

In addition to economic benefits, the station’s opening has created new job opportunities for the youth of Sorogbema. Youth leader, Jonney Rogers, praised the initiative and encouraged further employment opportunities for the region's young people.

Madam Tata Koroma, the Mamie Queen of Sorogbema Chiefdom, also expressed her appreciation for the investment. She emphasized the positive impact the station would have on women in the chiefdom but urged Lahai Sandy Koroma to extend support for women's empowerment in the area, as many women continue to face economic challenges.

The opening of Abyei Gas Station marks a significant milestone in NP Limited’s mission to ensure that fuel accessibility is no longer a challenge in Sorogbema Chiefdom, contributing to the region’s growth and development.