WED: HYPREP Positions Ogoni Restoration As Model For Climate Action
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has described the ongoing environmental restoration of Ogoniland as a results-driven climate action initiative, reaffirming its commitment to accelerating the cleanup of hydrocarbon-polluted communities in line with international environmental standards.
In a statement signed by the Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey, to commemorate the World Environment Day 2026, the Project said the restoration of Ogoniland remains a practical demonstration of how environmental remediation can contribute to climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development.
The statement, issued as part of activities marking this year's World Environment Day themed, "Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future," noted that the global campaign underscores the urgent need for accelerated action to address climate change and environmental degradation.
According to Zabbey, HYPREP remains committed to implementing the recommendations of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on the cleanup of Ogoniland while advancing citizen-led climate action across the Niger Delta.
He explained that the Project's ongoing intervention, including shoreline cleanup, mangrove restoration, remediation of polluted soil and groundwater, provision of potable water, livelihood support programmes, health initiatives, and the Ogoni Power Project—are helping to restore ecological balance and improve the quality of life in impacted communities.
The Project Coordinator highlighted HYPREP's large-scale mangrove restoration programme, describing it as a significant environmental achievement aimed at reviving the world's largest oil-degraded mangrove ecosystem. He stated that millions of native mangrove seedlings are being planted while invasive nipa palms are systematically removed to encourage the regeneration of indigenous species and biodiversity.
Zabbey noted that the restoration effort is already producing measurable outcomes, including the gradual return of fish, crabs, oysters, and periwinkles, as well as the recovery of critical breeding and nursery habitats for aquatic life.
He further disclosed that restored mangrove forests are capturing substantial quantities of carbon, contributing to global climate change mitigation while creating opportunities for carbon credit generation that could provide long-term funding for host communities.
He also revealed that thousands of Ogoni youths and women have been engaged as mangrove planters, nursery operators, and environmental shoreline monitors, known as Mangrove Vanguards, who help safeguard restored areas against re-pollution and artisanal refining activities.
Zabbey said HYPREP has continued to promote community ownership of the restoration process through collaboration with traditional rulers and local surveillance teams who co-manage rehabilitated facilities and restored shorelines to prevent vandalism.
He reaffirmed HYPREP's commitment to expanding remediation efforts and investing in sustainable livelihood programmes, including agricultural support, vocational training, environmental education, and grassroots sensitisation campaigns designed to foster environmental stewardship among local populations.
The Project Coordinator further noted that the designation of the Ogoni wetlands as a Ramsar Site of international importance by the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands reflects the ecological significance of the area and the progress achieved through ongoing restoration efforts.
"Environmental restoration is not merely a regulatory obligation; it is a fundamental duty to present and future generations," Zabbey said, reassuring stakeholders that HYPREP remains committed to ensuring that Ogoniland becomes a safe, healthy, and economically vibrant environment.
He called on community leaders, stakeholders, development partners, and the international community to continue supporting efforts aimed at restoring and safeguarding the Niger Delta environment.
Zabbey expressed appreciation for the sustained support of host communities and reaffirmed HYPREP's determination to deliver lasting environmental restoration across Ogoniland and its surrounding areas.
