High Commissioner Praises HYPREP’s “Impressive” Ogoni Clean-Up Progress
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, visited the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) office today, showering praise on the progress made in cleaning up the oil-ravaged Ogoni region.
“A Model for the World”
Mr. Montgomery expressed optimism that HYPREP’s approach could be replicated not only in other parts of the Niger Delta but globally. He said Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, HYPREP’s Project Coordinator, had given him an “impressive briefing” and that the work being done “has significance beyond Ogoniland… potentially in other areas of the world.”
Focus on Monitoring and Community Engagement
The High Commissioner highlighted the importance of monitoring and community involvement in the project’s success. He commended HYPREP’s commitment to transparency and accountability, emphasizing the Nigerian government’s responsibility to monitor the project closely.
Project Coordinator Shares Updates
Professor Zabbey welcomed the High Commissioner’s visit and assured the diplomatic community that HYPREP was committed to delivering a sustainable clean-up and restoration of Ogoniland. He highlighted the project’s key achievements, including:
- Provision of potable water
- Remediation of land and shorelines
- Mangrove restoration
- Livelihood training programs
- Construction of healthcare facilities
- Climate change mitigation through large-scale mangrove replanting
Sustaining Success and Moving Forward
Professor Zabbey reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to the project and acknowledged the extended partnership with UNEP, the project’s technical partner. He also indicated plans to involve the United Nations Office for Project Services in procurement and explore a hybrid technical support model that leverages UNEP’s expertise.
This visit signifies a critical step in international recognition of HYPREP’s efforts and paves the way for potential global collaboration in environmental remediation projects.
Key Takeaways:
- British High Commissioner commends HYPREP’s progress in Ogoni clean-up.
- HYPREP’s model seen as potentially replicable globally.
- Importance of monitoring and community engagement emphasized.
- Project Coordinator reaffirms commitment to sustainable clean-up.
- Ongoing partnership with UNEP and potential involvement of UNOPS.
