The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has officially launched a specialized mechatronics training programme for 100 selected beneficiaries. This initiative aims to empower youths in Ogoniland by providing them with high-impact, industry-relevant skills.
The training commenced on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at the Offshore Technology Institute, University of Port Harcourt (UniPort). It forms a major part of HYPREP’s broader sustainable livelihood initiative. Specifically, the project focuses on transitioning Ogoni youths from low-level skills to high-end competencies that meet global demands.
Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, the HYPREP Project Coordinator, declared the programme open through his representative, Prof. Damian-Paul Aguiyi. During the event, he reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to quality capacity building.
“HYPREP is making good its commitment to moving from low- to high-end skills,” Zabbey stated. Furthermore, he revealed that this mechatronics course is just one of ten such high-level programmes planned for this year. He urged the trainees to remain committed, noting that the project provides the best opportunities for the Ogoni people.
The Vice-Chancellor of UniPort, Professor Owunari Georgewill, also commended the initiative. He described it as a timely intervention that equips participants with globally competitive skills. In addition, he encouraged the youths to maximize this opportunity through hard work and dedication to learning.
Professor Bourdillon O. Omijeh, the National Coordinator of the Embedded AI Project in Nigeria, served as a professional mentor. He delivered a keynote address on the importance of mechatronics in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Similarly, representatives from Renaissance Africa Energy Company reiterated their support for the Ogoni Cleanup Programme.
The 100 beneficiaries were selected through a competitive Computer-Based Test (CBT) held in early 2023. Meanwhile, Mrs. Josephine Nzidee, Head of HYPREP’s Sustainable Livelihood Unit, expressed her delight at the kick-off. She assured the public that HYPREP would continue to focus on high-demand skills to help Ogoni indigenes find success in emerging industries.
