Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, is fast-tracking the environmental restoration of Ogoniland with over 130 projects slated for completion this 2025, according to its Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey.
Speaking at the 32nd Ogoni Day celebration organized by the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People, MOSOP, at Birabi Memorial Grammar School, Bori, Prof. Zabbey reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and socio-economic development in the region.
He highlighted HYPREP’s comprehensive approach to addressing decades of environmental degradation in the region, assuring the people of Ogoni of a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future in 2025.
“We are implementing over 130 projects simultaneously, including soil and groundwater remediation, shoreline cleanup and mangrove restoration, the construction of the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration, Ogoni Specialist Hospital, Buan Cottage Hospital, Ogoni Power Project, potable water schemes, and various stakeholder engagement activities,” he said.
He noted that many of these projects would be completed this year, adding, “These ongoing projects littered across the length and breadth of Ogoniland will be completed this year, 2025, for public use.”
Zabbey emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to Ogoni’s socio-economic revival and environmental restoration, describing HYPREP’s efforts as aligned with the recommendations of the United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, report.
“The mandate of HYPREP stems from the recommendations of the UNEP report, which highlighted the devastating effects of decades of hydrocarbon pollution on Ogoniland. The Federal Government’s response, through HYPREP, is a testament to its commitment to revitalizing Ogoniland and placing it on the path of environmental sustainability and economic rebirth for the good of the people,” he said.
The HYPREP boss also called for unity among Ogoni people to ensure the success of the project. “Unity, as emphasized in today’s theme, is not merely a concept but a driving force behind progress to which we must all commit ourselves. It is essential that all Ogoni sons and daughters come together to support and protect HYPREP’s projects and activities,” he stated.
In addition to environmental cleanup efforts, HYPREP has expanded its focus on human capital development. Prof. Zabbey announced that the agency recently awarded 300 postgraduate scholarships to Ogoni students and trained 5,000 youth and women to create alternative livelihoods.
“This initiative underscores the Federal Government’s commitment, through HYPREP, to investing in human capital development as a deliberate strategy in creating alternative sources of livelihoods for impacted communities while creating opportunities for Ogoni youths to contribute meaningfully to society,” he explained.
Reflecting on the theme of the celebration, Unity for Freedom and Prosperity, Zabbey urged MOSOP and the Ogoni people to strengthen advocacy for peace, reconciliation, and integration.
“Let us align ourselves with the Federal Government’s objectives and work hand-in-hand to improve the lives of our people. The message of unity for freedom and prosperity must remain at the heart of our efforts. Together, we can overcome challenges and transform Ogoniland into a model of environmental restoration and sustainable development,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to the Ogoni people for their cooperation and support, saying, “Your cooperation, understanding, and contributions have been invaluable in driving progress in the implementation process. We will continue to engage you and seek your input. Let this celebration inspire a renewed commitment to continuous dialogue and remind us that unity is our greatest strength.”
