Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, has announced that the Ogoniland mangrove wetlands have been officially designated a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, marking a major milestone in the environmental restoration of the oil-impacted region.
The designation, granted by the Ramsar Convention Secretariat, recognises the ecological significance of Ogoniland’s mangrove ecosystem and reinforces ongoing efforts to restore oil-degraded wetlands across the area.
The Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Nenibarini Zabbey, described the recognition as a proud moment for the people of Ogoni and stakeholders involved in the region’s environmental recovery.
“This global recognition highlights the ecological value of Ogoniland’s mangrove wetlands and affirms the importance of HYPREP’s ongoing restoration of oil-degraded mangroves in Ogoni,” Zabbey said.
He noted that the wetlands cover more than 31,700 hectares of mangrove ecosystems, including islands, tidal creeks, mudflats, and mangrove forests that support rich biodiversity.
According to HYPREP, the ecosystem provides habitat for a wide range of species, including fin fish, shellfish, crustaceans, crocodiles, turtles, and the endangered grey parrot, while also delivering vital environmental services.
“The mangrove wetlands are essential for fisheries production, flood regulation, water purification, and carbon storage,” Zabbey said, adding that the recognition will also support sustainable livelihoods for local communities and boost eco-tourism opportunities in the region.
The designation follows a process that began in 2024 when HYPREP submitted a memorandum to the National Council on Environment seeking approval to nominate the wetlands for Ramsar status.
Following the Council’s endorsement, Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, who also chairs HYPREP’s Governing Council, formally wrote to the Ramsar Secretariat requesting international recognition for the Ogoni wetlands.
After reviewing the ecological importance of the site, the Ramsar Secretariat approved the designation, placing the Ogoniland mangroves among globally protected wetland ecosystems.
HYPREP noted that the recognition also fulfils a key recommendation contained in the UNEP Environmental Assessment of Ogoniland, which called for stronger environmental protection and sustainable management of the region’s ecosystems.
The agency said the new status will strengthen conservation measures and promote long-term environmental protection for the benefit of both present and future generations.
“HYPREP remains committed to restoring the Ogoni environment through the remediation and restoration of oil-damaged land, shorelines, and mangrove areas,” Zabbey said.
He called on stakeholders and the public to support ongoing restoration efforts as the agency prepares to introduce a comprehensive sustainable management plan for the Ogoni mangrove wetlands.
