Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, has announced that over 130 active projects are ongoing in Ogoniland, including shoreline remediation, mangrove restoration, Ogoni power project, livelihoods programmes and numerous constructions, including the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration.
The Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey, who disclosed this during an interactive session with Ogoni religious leaders, said the HYPREP initiative aims to remediate the hydrocarbon-impacted Ogoni environment, restore livelihoods, peacebuilding, and pave the way for a more sustainable ecosystem and a prosperous future.
Zabbey recognized the important role that religious leaders play in the fabric of Ogoni society and sought their guidance and support in realizing the full potential of HYPREP.
He emphasized the commitment of the Federal Government to the successful implementation of the Clean-up Project and urged the religious leaders to lend their voices to the cause, amplify the message of environmental stewardship and civic education within their congregations and beyond, and use their platforms to disseminate relevant information on the progress of work.
“As a Project, the cautiousness of the enormity of the task before us and the moral burden of delivering on our mandate of a cleaner Ogoni environment and restoration of the livelihood of our people have continued to inspire us to do the right things. The commitment of the Federal Government to the successful implementation of the Clean-up Project remains unwavering.
“This is why we have put in internal monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure that projects are not only fit for purpose but are also delivered within cost and timely. Let me inform our revered religious leaders that we have over 130 active projects ongoing in Ogoniland, which include land and shoreline remediation; mangrove restoration; potable water; construction of the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration (CEER); Ogoni Specialist Hospital and the Buan Cottage Hospital; Ogoni Power Project and Livelihood programmes.”
The HYPREP boss also mentioned that the Project was grappling with roll-out delays, community disputes, and chieftaincy tussles, and enjoined the religious leaders to complement their peacebuilding efforts by actively promoting alternative dispute resolution at the community level.
“Remember also that we are partners in the campaign against re-pollution and illegal refining (activities that tend to derail the project’s gains).
“At HYPREP, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and participatory approach to decision-making, one that respects the diversity of our perspectives and values that define the community. Your insights and feedback are invaluable as we navigate the complexities of the HYPREP implementation process and seek to address the needs and concerns of all stakeholders.
“As we continue on this journey together, let us draw inspiration from the timeless teachings of compassion, justice, and reverence for creation that are at the heart of our religious traditions. Let us strive to be faithful stewards of the earth, mindful of the legacy we leave for future generations.”
Meanwhile, HYPREP has charged Ogoni entrepreneurs and business owners to learn about the procurement procedures and explore potential business partnerships within the Ogoni community and beyond.
HYPREP Project Coordinator, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey, gave the charge at a Procurement and Business Strategy Workshop held in Port Harcourt to address concerns about community participation in HYPREP contract bids and to enhance the participation of Ogoni entrepreneurs.
Zabbey said the goal of the workshop was to create a thriving ecosystem where local business interests can benefit and flourish from opportunities made available through HYPREP, as he affirmed his commitment to fostering sustainable development, empowering local communities, and building structures for peace.
“HYPREP envisions a future where the livelihoods of hydrocarbon-impacted communities are fully restored for inclusive and sustainable economic prosperity, a future where the Ogoni people also play a central role in shaping their own destiny by embracing new ideas for development.
“As a community-based project, we recognize that there have been concerns within the community regarding low community participation in the procurement processes and access to business opportunities due to a limited understanding of some processes and procedures.
“We hear your concerns about delays and community quota. At the end of this workshop, we are optimistic that participants will have learned that there are specific requirements and timelines within which every procurement process must be carried out. We are here to address some of those concerns head-on and chart a new course that prioritizes community participation, transparency, fairness, and inclusivity. We will continue providing platforms like this for interaction, knowledge acquisition, and collaboration.
“As we delve into the intricacies of procurement and business strategy, let us remember that the ultimate goal is to create a thriving ecosystem where local business interests can benefit and flourish from opportunities made available through HYPREP, where alternative livelihoods are created that discourage illegal refining, re-pollution, and other unwholesome acts.”