Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Oysters, periwinkles, and barnacles have begun to reappear on the roots of mangroves in Ogoniland signaling a significant step forward in the region’s ecological recovery, driven by the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP.
Oysters and barnacles are filter feeders, which cleanse tiny debris from the water, and they also serve as a food source and hiding space for certain marine species. Oyster reefs serve as barriers to storms and tides, preventing erosion and protecting productive estuary waters.
Speaking during a field visit to project sites in Bunu, K-Dere, and Beere communities in Ogoni, HYPREP Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, expressed optimism over the environmental resurgence.
Zabbey noted that as more oil is removed from the sediments, conditions in the creeks will continue to improve, paving the way for the return of aquatic life and better livelihoods for local communities.
He said, “I am very excited to see oysters on the roots of the red mangroves. Their return is an indication of improvement in the ecosystem. When you see them, it shows the environment is becoming conducive. We have also witnessed the return of periwinkles and barnacles on the prop roots of these mangroves.”
The visible recovery of aquatic ecosystems underscores the cleanup’s potential as a model for environmental restoration and community revitalization in the Niger Delta
Beyond ecological gains, Zabbey announced plans to train youths and women in agribusiness and sustainable aquaculture to enhance food security.
“This year we are going to embark on a lot of trainings for Ogoni youths and women, while we place emphasis on agribusiness and build capacity in sustainable aquaculture, to enhance food security in the region. This initiative will enable Ogoniland to contribute significantly to national food security,” he said.
The HYPREP boss also announced plans to commission additional water projects next month while ensuring greater inclusion of women in its community engagement efforts.
The Ogoni cleanup, launched in 2016 following recommendations from the United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, continues to demonstrate progress. “The most encouraging part is that the Ogoni people have taken ownership of the project,” Zabbey said.
