HYPREP Engages Ogoni Stakeholders, Seeks Continued Collaboration for Project Success

By Queen Kunde

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) recently held a stakeholder engagement forum in Port Harcourt to update key Ogoni figures on its progress and solicit continued support.

Project Coordinator Professor Nenibarini Zabbey highlighted significant milestones, including the restoration of 560 hectares of mangroves, 20% completion of shoreline remediation, and 70% progress at the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration (CEER).

Professor Zabbey also noted the steady advancement of the Ogoni Specialist Hospital, the Ogoni Power Project, and efforts to establish an agro-processing hub in partnership with the African Development Bank. In addition, HYPREP is enhancing public health by embarking on 14 new water schemes for over 68 communities in Ogoni, with two water stations already commissioned.

Acknowledging HYPREP’s socio-economic impact, the Project Coordinator shared that over 7,000 jobs had been created and 5,000 youths and women trained in various skills. He also announced a socio-economic study of the region set for 2025.

While celebrating these achievements, Professor Zabbey stressed that HYPREP’s success depends on ongoing collaboration with Ogoni communities and stakeholders.

The forum, held in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to environmental restoration and sustainable development, also saw stakeholders urging for faster project execution and increased community involvement.