The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) says the Ogoni clean-up is on course, 15 years after the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released its landmark report exposing the devastating impact of decades of oil pollution in Ogoniland and recommending one of the world’s most ambitious environmental remediation programmes.

The landmark UNEP report, presented to the Federal Government on August 4, 2011, revealed extensive environmental degradation, widespread contamination of land and groundwater, severe public health risks and the collapse of traditional livelihoods caused by decades of petroleum operations.

It recommended an initial $1 billion intervention fund to commence the restoration of Ogoniland.

In a statement marking the 15th anniversary of the report, HYPREP said significant progress has been recorded in implementing the UNEP recommendations, with milestones achieved in environmental remediation, mangrove restoration, potable water supply, healthcare, livelihood restoration and biodiversity conservation.

According to the Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, the project has recorded measurable gains since remediation activities commenced in 2016 and is steadily creating a sustainable template for the restoration of other oil-impacted communities across Nigeria.

The Project Coordinator said he has remediated dozens of polluted sites, restored over 1.5 million mangroves, provided potable water to 49 communities, created more than 8,000 jobs, trained thousands of youths and women in specialised skills, upgraded healthcare facilities and is establishing legacy projects aimed at driving sustainable environmental recovery in Ogoniland.

Zabbey, said the anniversary “serves as a vital checkpoint for government bodies, international partners, and industry operators to renew their commitments to environmental sustainability, promote healthy communities, and support the sustainable development of the people.”

He added that the project remains committed to intensifying cleanup efforts and livelihood restoration across oil-impacted communities in Ogoniland.