President Dr Julius Maada Bio on Thursday January 15, 2026 met with representatives of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) at State House, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to strengthening private sector growth through sustained dialogue, partnership, and responsive governance.
The high-level engagement brought together key stakeholders from Sierra Leone’s petroleum downstream sector, a critical component of the country’s economy that affects transportation, industrial productivity, energy access and the everyday cost of living for citizens. President Bio described the meeting as part of his administration’s efforts to build a stronger working relationship with the business community, especially industries that play a central role in national development.
In his address, the President underscored the importance of oil marketing companies in driving economic activities noting that the sector’s performance directly impacts households, commercial operations and national revenue generation.
“This year, I am not only acting; I want to act with haste. If we are to work together we must continue to engage in dialogue,” President Bio told participants, signaling his intention to adopt a faster and more collaborative approach to addressing national priorities and private sector concerns.
The President described the OMCs as strategic development partners, emphasizing that the engagement was not merely ceremonial but aimed at deepening trust and cooperation. He explained that his Government was determined to listen to stakeholders, assess the strength of existing partnerships and work jointly toward solutions that promote stability and shared prosperity.
“We are here to listen to you, to understand your concerns, assess our partnership and explore how we can further strengthen it,” the President said.
President Bio stressed that regular engagement between Government institutions and private sector actors is essential for sustainable economic growth. He said such discussions provide opportunities for Government to understand operational challenges within industries, while allowing businesses to align their contributions with the national development agenda.
According to him, continuous consultations will help create a more predictable and supportive business environment, enabling companies to operate efficiently, grow investments and support job creation for Sierra Leoneans. He also maintained that open communication remains a key ingredient for resolving issues before they escalate and for building long-term confidence in governance.
The President further noted that his administration will continue to prioritize dialogue-driven leadership as it enhances accountability, strengthens partnerships and improves policy responses that affect businesses and citizens alike.
Chief Minister, Dr David Moinina Sengeh, who also spoke at the meeting, said the engagement was convened at the initiative of President Bio, demonstrating the Government’s recognition of oil marketing companies as major contributors to the country’s economy and development objectives.
Dr David Moinina Sengeh described the sector as an important partner in national progress and said the meeting reflects the President’s determination to work closely with private sector institutions in achieving economic growth, investment expansion and national stability.
The State House engagement is expected to serve as a foundation for ongoing dialogue between Government and oil industry stakeholders, with the shared goal of improving collaboration and supporting a stronger and more resilient economy.
