The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has described the ongoing restoration of Ogoniland as a results-driven climate action initiative, stating that the project is reversing decades of environmental damage while contributing to the global fight against climate change.
Mangrove Restoration as Climate Action
Marking the 2026 World Environment Day, HYPREP highlighted that its large-scale mangrove restoration programme is reviving what was once regarded as the world's largest oil-degraded mangrove ecosystem. The initiative is creating jobs, restoring biodiversity, and generating future carbon-credit opportunities for local communities.
Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, said the agency's environmental restoration efforts align with the global theme of this year's celebration, 'Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.'
Carbon Sinks and Biodiversity Recovery
According to him, millions of native mangroves are being planted across polluted shorelines in Ogoniland. These mangroves help absorb carbon emissions, restore fish breeding grounds, and encourage the return of aquatic species such as fish, crabs, oysters, and periwinkles.
He noted that the restored mangrove forests are already serving as significant carbon sinks. Plans are underway to leverage carbon-credit opportunities that could provide sustainable funding for host communities and ensure long-term conservation of the ecosystem.
Livelihoods for Local Communities
Zabbey explained that beyond environmental gains, the project has become a source of livelihood for thousands of Ogoni youths and women. They are employed as mangrove planters, nursery operators, and shoreline environmental monitors known as Mangrove Vanguards.
HYPREP's intervention extends beyond mangrove restoration to include shoreline cleanup, remediation of polluted soil and groundwater, provision of potable water, health programmes, livelihood support schemes, and the ongoing Ogoni Power Project.
Community Ownership and International Recognition
The project coordinator said local communities have embraced ownership of the restoration programme. Traditional rulers and community surveillance teams work to protect restored facilities and prevent re-pollution and vandalism.
'HYPREP remains committed to accelerating remediation activities while empowering communities through sustainable livelihood programmes, environmental education and grassroots advocacy,' he stated.
He further highlighted the international recognition accorded to the Ogoni wetlands through their designation as a Ramsar Site of international importance, describing the development as a testament to the ecological significance of the area.
Call for Collaboration
Calling for greater collaboration, HYPREP urged stakeholders, community leaders, development partners, and the international community to support ongoing efforts aimed at restoring and safeguarding the Niger Delta environment.
The agency maintained that environmental restoration is not only a regulatory obligation but a responsibility owed to future generations. HYPREP pledged to sustain momentum until the objectives of the United Nations Environment Programme's recommendations for Ogoniland are fully achieved.
