The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) actively engaged in a high-level multi-stakeholder dialogue hosted by the Pulitzer Centre in Kpor, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The event, centered on the compelling theme “Restoring Rivers, Reviving Livelihoods, Renewing Lives,” brought together community representatives, regulatory bodies such as NOSDRA and NESREA, civil society organizations, academics, and other key players to address the ongoing environmental recovery efforts in Ogoniland.
Representing HYPREP were senior officials including Head of Communications Peter Lenu, Technical Assistant to the Project Coordinator on Shoreline Izuchukwu Uche, Technical Assistant on Mangrove Dr. Letan Karikpo, and Enuolare Mba-Nwigoh.
The dialogue offered HYPREP a valuable platform to update participants on major strides in the Ogoni cleanup initiative. Highlights included the Phase 1 shoreline remediation project, which has advanced beyond 70% completion, and the successful conclusion of the initial phase of mangrove restoration.
Encouraging signs of ecological recovery were also shared, particularly in the Bomu creeks, where biodiversity is rebounding—evidenced by the resurgence of periwinkles in notable numbers and the revitalization of aquatic habitats.
HYPREP emphasized how its core interventions directly align with the dialogue’s focus: shoreline and mangrove efforts are restoring vital river ecosystems, livelihood programs are breathing new life into economic opportunities for affected communities, and the overarching mission is renewing hope and improving quality of life for the Ogoni people.
Amid these positive developments, HYPREP strongly renewed its appeal for unified action among all stakeholders to prevent any further pollution incidents. The project team underscored that the cleanup remains an evolving process requiring sustained collaboration and support to ensure long-term success.
As a genuinely community-driven endeavor, such interactive forums allow HYPREP to directly gauge the sentiments of those it serves, gather constructive input, and refine strategies to deliver more impactful, responsive programs that truly benefit the people of Ogoni.
The session was convened by investigative journalist Anuoluwapo Adelakun of the Pulitzer Centre for Crisis Reporting, who had visited HYPREP Project Coordinator Professor Nenibarini Zabbey at the Project Coordination Office earlier that week on Monday to lay the groundwork for this important exchange.
