The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the full and transparent implementation of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) recommendations on the environmental restoration of Ogoniland in Rivers State.
Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, restated this pledge during the commissioning of two new water facilities in Bane and Gwara communities in Khana Local Government Area of the state.
Lawal said the projects reflect the government’s dedication to improving public health, restoring the environment, and uplifting affected communities.
“We will continue to prioritize projects that enhance the well-being of our people, ensuring clean water, healthy soil, productive livelihoods, and a safe environment,” he stated.
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The facilities were delivered under the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), the Federal Government’s flagship initiative for implementing the UNEP report on Ogoniland and advancing sustainable development in the region.
Commending HYPREP’s technical leadership and the cooperation of community members, the Minister described the commissioning as “a new beginning for the people of Bane and Gwara after decades of hardship caused by pollution.”
He also urged the communities to take ownership of the facilities to ensure their long-term sustainability.
Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, HYPREP’s Project Coordinator, noted that the new water projects bring the number of completed facilities to 14, now serving 45 Ogoni communities with clean and safe drinking water.
He called for continued stakeholder collaboration to ensure smooth and effective project delivery across Ogoniland.
