Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing critical infrastructure projects and environmental remediation in Ogoniland, emphasizing ongoing collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Rivers State Ministry of Power.
Speaking in Port Harcourt at the 2024 fourth quarter meeting with regulators, HYPREP Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, highlighted the organization’s strategic partnership with the Rivers State Ministry of Power to ensure the success of the Ogoni power project.
Zabbey represented by Mr. Damian Aguiyi, HYPREP’s Head of Projects, noted that the collaboration was vital in tackling challenges and delivering sustainable progress.
“We are already collaborating with the Rivers State Ministry of Power, and they are in tune with us. We’ve had meetings with the Commissioner to address critical challenges, such as vandalism of infrastructure on the Afam-Ebubu line. Resolving these issues is key to ensuring that our project does not face any roadblocks,” Aguiyi said.
He added that HYPREP was no longer at the stage of presenting plans but showcasing achievements. “At this point, we are showing people what we’ve done, not just what we plan to do. Our projects speak for themselves,” he emphasized.
For his part, a representative of the Rivers State Commissioner for Power, Mr Osele John, underscored the state government’s significant investments in power infrastructure.
John who is a Director at the Ministry of Power, cited the Eleme, Omoku, and Trans Amadi gas turbines, along with other power facilities, as proof of their commitment to improving electricity access in Rivers State.
“The Rivers State Government has invested in critical power projects, including the Eleme, Omoku, and Trans Amadi gas turbines. Additionally, we have a 550 132KV transmission line running from Omoku to Port Harcourt, which presents a clear opportunity for collaboration to achieve the Ogoni power project. With the Electricity Act in place, we are ready to support HYPREP in achieving its goals,” John stated.
Meanwhile, Dr. Samuel Paul of the Stakeholder Democracy Network, SDN, commended HYPREP’s progress in environmental remediation, as well as in livelihood restoration programs and the distribution of starter packs to beneficiaries.
“We appreciate the work HYPREP has done so far. Post-remediated sites show clear signs of revegetation, which is a true indication of successful cleanup. However, we still have concerns about mangrove planting and shoreline restoration sequence. HYPREP has provided explanations, and we look forward to further improvements,” Paul said.
