Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, has announced the delivery of the first batch of equipment for the much-anticipated Ogoni Power Project, marking a significant milestone in efforts to restore energy access to oil-impacted communities in Ogoniland.
Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, during the first quarterly interactive session with Ogoni youths in Port Harcourt, said the project is entering a critical phase in its implementation, as he highlighted key milestones achieved in 2025 and pledged accelerated completion of ongoing initiatives.
Zabbey revealed that more equipment was expected in the second quarter of the year to fast-track the development of the power infrastructure.
He said, “In March 2025, the Project Coordination Office took delivery of the first batch of equipment for the Ogoni Power Project. We expect further deliveries this second quarter, and we are determined to ensure timely deployment of this infrastructure to benefit the people.”
The power project is part of a broader multi-sectoral intervention by HYPREP aimed at remediating decades of hydrocarbon pollution in Ogoni while simultaneously improving the livelihoods and well-being of the people.
While addressing the youths, the Project Coordinator emphasized that energy access was a key enabler of economic development and job creation, and HYPREP is committed to delivering on this front.
“We understand that without reliable electricity, the full potential of our remediation and livelihood efforts cannot be realized. This power project is not just about infrastructure—it’s about unlocking opportunities for education, healthcare, enterprise, and a better quality of life.”
In addition to the power project, HYPREP also updated the youths on ongoing health, water, education, and economic empowerment initiatives, including the near-completion of the Buan Cottage Hospital and the Ogoni Specialist Hospital.
The Project Coordinator also reaffirmed HYPREP’s commitment to community engagement, transparency, and the promotion of peaceful dialogue. He announced that a new Civic Education and Constructive Engagement campaign would be launched soon to equip Ogoni youths with tools for active citizenship and peaceful advocacy.
Zabbey said, “This year, HYPREP is drawing from a new policy thrust that prioritizes the timely completion of all projects within stated timelines. We understand the urgency of protecting the environment and improving livelihoods in line with our mandate, and I assure you that we are working tirelessly to deliver this.
“In line with our drive for inclusiveness and constructive dialogue, HYPREP will launch the Civic Education and Constructive Engagement campaign in the coming weeks. This initiative will sensitize Ogoni youths on civic responsibility, peaceful advocacy, and collaboration for development.”
The Project Coordinator also gave updates on the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration, CEER, in Wiyaakara, revealing that final finishing works were ongoing and the center would be commissioned this year.
“This is a landmark project that will institutionalize environmental restoration in Nigeria. We urge you to continue engaging constructively. Do not allow misinformation to derail progress. We are open, accountable, and committed to the good of Ogoniland,” he added.
The session brought together youth representatives from across the four Ogoni local government areas and provided a platform for direct interaction, feedback, and updates on project milestones.
