Collaboration with stakeholders is essential to ensure that the Ogoni clean-up maintains its momentum without facing financial constraints, as emphasized by the House of Representatives Committee on Host Communities.
Assurance was given by the committee to engage with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and International Oil Companies to provide support for the project, which is progressing positively in various communities in Ogoni land, Rivers State.
During a three-day visit to project sites managed by the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project in Ogoni land, Committee Chairman Dumnamene Dekor affirmed the importance of completing the Ogoni clean-up to restore the environment from decades of oil pollution, thereby enhancing the quality of life for the residents.
Stressing the priority of the Ogoni clean-up, Dekor mentioned discussions with the Board of Trustees Chairman regarding outstanding debts and potential revenue sources for the project, as the initial grant is nearly depleted. It was highlighted that the IOCs and NNPC Ltd must fulfill their obligation to contribute to the project funding.
Praising HYPREP for its dedication to the Ogoni clean-up, Dekor emphasized the importance of creating alternative livelihood opportunities for the youth and residents in the area, urging them to channel their energies into constructive pursuits for a better future.
Several project sites were visited, including water projects, Ogoni Specialist Hospital, and remediation sites, showcasing a renewed commitment towards completing the project, as noted by Dekor after witnessing the progress firsthand.
HYPREP Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, provided assurance of the satisfactory progress of the work, with over 130 projects currently ongoing, encompassing water initiatives, mangrove restoration, livelihood support, and soil remediation efforts.
Highlighting the project’s broader objective, Zabbey mentioned the aim to establish a model not only for Ogoni but for the entire Niger Delta region, showcasing a sustainable approach towards environmental reclamation.