By Felix Khanoba
The Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, has announced that two additional water schemes located in Beeri (Khana) and Bunu (Tai) Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Rivers State will be completed by February 2025.
These projects, part of HYPREP’s Phase II Water Scheme, are aimed at providing clean drinking water to communities affected by environmental pollution in Ogoni.
Professor Zabbey shared this update following his recent visit to water facilities and shoreline remediation sites in K-Dere, Gokana LGA.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress made and praised the efforts of local workers, noting their commitment to the project’s success. The visit, he explained, was an opportunity to assess the work’s progress and motivate community members to maintain their high standards.
With these new water facilities nearing completion, the Project Coordinator emphasized that they will significantly improve access to clean water for more communities. He also highlighted that HYPREP’s other initiatives, including health interventions, remediation, and livelihood programs, are poised to enhance the quality of life for the Ogoni people.
Reflecting on the warm reception from the K-Dere community, Professor Zabbey expressed appreciation for the level of support and acceptance shown during his unannounced visit. “The spontaneous reception indicates that the project is gaining strong support within the communities of Ogoni,” he said.
During his engagement with K-Dere leadership, the Project Coordinator promised to convene another meeting to address specific concerns raised by the community. He stressed that the project’s success depends on both community involvement and valuable feedback.
Additionally, he encouraged the community to include women in the upcoming discussions, in alignment with HYPREP’s commitment to gender inclusion. “As key drivers of the local economy, women must be part of conversations that affect their well-being,” he added.
Discussing his visit to the K-Dere shoreline, Professor Zabbey expressed excitement over the return of oysters to the area—a species that had once thrived before environmental degradation. He attributed this positive development to the ongoing remediation efforts being carried out by HYPREP, which are improving the local ecosystem.
HYPREP is currently overseeing 34 shoreline remediation projects in Gokana LGA and the construction of 14 water lots as part of its Phase II Water Scheme, which will provide potable water to 68 communities. To date, the shoreline cleanup is 25% complete, covering 123 grids across 357.6 hectares out of a total 1747.6 hectares. Meanwhile, the construction of the 14 water lots is 55.56% complete.
Professor Zabbey’s visit underscores his commitment to ensuring that the project remains on track, delivers value for money, and results in sustainable outcomes. Looking ahead, he mentioned that a key focus for 2025 will be providing training to the youth and women of Ogoni, with a particular emphasis on sustainable aquaculture practices.
He expressed the readiness to promote non-destructive aquaculture to enhance food security in the region, adding that the initiative will not only benefit Ogoni but also contribute to national food security.
