The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) have initiated discussions on sustainable ways to tackle the invasion of nipa palm in the Niger Delta while creating economic value from the plant.
This collaboration informed the visit of the NDDC’s Environmental Protection and Control Department, led by its Director, Elder Dr. Henry Asuquo Okokon, to the HYPREP Project Coordination Office in Port Harcourt on Monday, August 25.
Dr. Okokon noted that a partnership between both organisations would not only address the ecological impact of the invasive species but also promote livelihood opportunities, job creation, capacity building and value addition for local communities.
Welcoming the delegation, HYPREP Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, described the engagement as a platform to exchange ideas and design initiatives that align with sustainable development goals.
He stressed the need for innovative research to explore viable alternatives for the effective utilisation of nipa palm.
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In the days ahead, both organisations are expected to hold technical sessions to assess the feasibility of using nypa palm for ethanol production, biochar and other beneficial products.
Also in attendance were Professor Damian-Paul Aguiyi, HYPREP’s Director of Technical Services, as well as senior officials of both agencies.
Nipa palm (Nypa fruticans), an invasive species, has spread across several coastal communities in the Niger Delta, threatening native mangroves and disrupting ecological balance.
To mitigate its impact, HYPREP, through its Mangrove Restoration Programme, has so far removed more than one tonne of the plant from the Bomu creeks in Ogoni.
The intervention aims to allow indigenous mangrove species to regenerate naturally, restore biodiversity, revive aquatic life and support the livelihoods of local residents.
