Federal Gov’t Commends HYPREP, Urges Faster Ogoni Clean-Up

The Federal Government has commended the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) for its implementation of the Ogoni Clean-Up Programme, describing the initiative as a key deliverable under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The commendation followed a two-day inspection of project sites in Ogoni by the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU) and officials of the Federal Ministry of Environment to assess progress and accelerate project delivery.

Representing the CRDCU, Esege Ebei-Esege said HYPREP’s interventions were high-impact projects, noting that achievements recorded within two years reflect a strong commitment to environmental restoration and community development. The team also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fully implementing the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recommendations on Ogoni.

The delegation praised HYPREP’s Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, for achieving significant milestones and promoting community participation, and assured stronger inter-agency collaboration to fast-track ongoing projects.

In his response, Zabbey highlighted key achievements, including the completion of Phase 1 of the Mangrove Restoration and Shoreline Remediation projects, with Phase 2 set to commence alongside training and certification of community workers by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

He disclosed that the K-Dere Water Supply Project is ready for inauguration and that efforts are ongoing to secure Ramsar status for the Ogoni Wetlands. He also noted progress on the Ogoni Power Project, with the installation of two 60 MVA transformers at the Bodo substation.

Zabbey added that HYPREP is introducing innovative research initiatives, including biodegradable growcoons for mangrove planting and biofertiliser production using indigenous microbes to boost soil fertility and food security.

CRDCU officials inspected several projects, including health facilities, water schemes, power infrastructure, remediation sites, and shoreline and mangrove restoration works across Ogoni communities.