The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving a 100% cleanup of oil-impacted areas in Ogoniland, despite ongoing challenges.
This assurance was given during the presentation of HYPREP’s midterm report to stakeholders in Port Harcourt, where officials reported an overall progress of 27% since the project began in 2016.
The Federal Government launched the Ogoni cleanup project in response to the recommendations of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), with a 30-year timeline for full environmental restoration.
According to HYPREP, significant strides have been made over the past two years, particularly in the areas of environmental remediation, provision of clean water, and support for alternative livelihoods.
The agency attributed the progress to the Federal Government’s commitment and political will to see the project through.
However, HYPREP raised concerns over persistent challenges including misinformation, communal disputes, and litigation, which it said continue to slow down the pace of work.
The Ogoni cleanup remains a matter of national and international interest, with stakeholders emphasising the importance of sustained attention and cooperation to ensure its success.
