By Fatima Kpaka
Freetown, September 15, 2026: “New on the seat, but not new at the NRA.” With those words, newly appointed Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Abu Martin Kanneh, opened his maiden stakeholder engagement with Managing Directors and representatives of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) at Rensis House, Gloucester Street, Freetown.
The meeting marked Kanneh’s first formal interaction with the petroleum sector, which contributes more than half of Sierra Leone’s domestic revenue. Discussions centered on petroleum volume and payment reconciliation, management of concessions, and strategies to strengthen compliance, improve coordination, and enhance revenue mobilization.
Kanneh acknowledged the critical role of OMCs in the national economy but noted that revenue performance from the sector remains below expectations despite reforms introduced under the Finance Act 2026. He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration, accurate reporting, effective reconciliation systems, and improved compliance to ensure government receives its due revenue.
Representatives of the OMCs congratulated Kanneh on his appointment and pledged cooperation with the NRA. They highlighted the importance of establishing effective petroleum volume‑tracking and reconciliation systems to improve transparency, strengthen accountability, and boost revenue.
The engagement ended with OMC representatives commending the Commissioner General for prioritizing consultation at the start of his tenure, describing the meeting as a positive step toward addressing sector challenges collaboratively before enforcement measures are intensified.
The National Revenue Authority is Sierra Leone’s central revenue collection agency, mandated to mobilize domestic resources and enforce compliance across key sectors. The petroleum industry remains one of its largest contributors, but also one of the most complex, requiring robust monitoring systems to ensure accountability.