Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, has urged Ogoni youths to sustain their commitment to ending artisanal refining to prevent the re-pollution of the environment in the region.
The call was made by HYPREP’s Head of Stakeholders Engagement, Richard Nkpeh, during a sensitization workshop in Gio community, Tai Local Government Area, aimed at addressing the adverse effects of illegal oil refining and encouraging sustainable practices.
Nkpeh noted a positive shift in the attitude of Ogoni youths, who according to him, were now increasingly embracing environmentally friendly activities.
“We are here to sensitize ex-artisanal refiners on issues that have to do with repollution. We have observed that Ogoni youths are now having a redirection and are committed to our activities at HYPREP.
“We have observed a redirection among Ogoni youths, who are seeing the harmful effects of artisanal refining and committing to ventures that will sustain our environment and biodiversity,” he said.
The workshop also featured Professor Desmond Nbete of the University of Port Harcourt, who emphasized the socioeconomic benefits of maintaining a clean environment.
“A clean Ogoni environment will not only lead to healthier communities but also attract investors, driving development in the region,” he stated.
Elvis Ekoma, facilitator of the Ogoni ex-artisanal refiners, disclosed that over 2,000 individuals previously involved in illegal refining have been sensitized. “Our focus now is on preventing re-pollution as cleanup efforts progress. We have recorded significant successes in redirecting these individuals,” Ekoma said.
Chairman of the Ex-artisanal Refiners Forum, Humphrey Dumka, commended HYPREP’s initiatives, highlighting the revival of biodiversity through ongoing efforts such as mangrove planting.
“This sensitization is helping our people understand the damage we have caused to our environment. The mangrove planting by HYPREP is bringing back our periwinkles and other seafoods.”
The workshop forms part of HYPREP’s strategy to ensure the Ogoni cleanup achieves lasting environmental and economic transformation in the region.
