The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has reaffirmed its commitment to deploying science-driven solutions to address long-standing health concerns in Ogoni communities.

The agency said its interventions are anchored on recommendations of the United Nations Environment Programme (United Nations Environment Programme), with renewed focus on delivering accessible and affordable healthcare services in oil-impacted areas.

Project Coordinator, Nenibarini Zabbey, said the global theme “Together for health: Stand with Science” strongly aligns with ongoing efforts in Ogoniland, where decades of environmental pollution have raised serious public health concerns.

He explained that one of the flagship initiatives is a long-term medical surveillance programme designed to monitor the health of residents over their lifetimes. The study is being implemented in partnership with the International Agency for Research on Cancer, an arm of the World Health Organisation, to ensure global standards and credibility.

Zabbey noted that the human biomonitoring study will enable early detection of pollution-related health conditions and support evidence-based interventions. “This is about identifying possible health impacts early enough and acting decisively,” he said.

HYPREP said it has invested in healthcare infrastructure across Ogoni communities, including upgrading hospitals with modern equipment, providing solar-powered electricity for uninterrupted services, and deploying ambulances to strengthen emergency response systems.

The agency also highlighted the construction of a 100-bed Ogoni Specialist Hospital and a 43-bed cottage hospital as part of efforts to bridge healthcare gaps in the region.
It said these interventions reflect a “One Health” approach that integrates human, environmental, and animal health considerations.

HYPREP stressed that improving public health in Ogoni requires collaboration among government agencies, health institutions, and local communities. It also called for stronger efforts to rebuild trust in scientific evidence, combat misinformation, and translate research into policy action.

The agency commended traditional rulers, youths, and residents of Ogoni for their cooperation in ongoing health assessments, describing their participation as a critical factor in the success of the programme.

HYPREP also said it will continue to strengthen health systems, build capacity among local health workers, and generate data-driven insights to support long-term public health planning in the region. It urged residents to take advantage of available health services and prioritise their well-being.