Why HYPREP’s Governing Council Leadership Stands Firmly Behind Prof. Zabbey

Why HYPREP’s Governing Council Leadership Stands Firmly Behind Prof. Zabbey....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a defining moment of institutional endorsement, the latest Governing Council meeting of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), held in Abuja, passed a resounding vote of confidence in its Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey. This decision underscores the significant milestones achieved under his stewardship, affirming HYPREP’s commitment to environmental restoration and sustainable development in Ogoniland.

The meeting witnessed the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including the Honourable Minister of Environment and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal. Engr. Abubakar Momoh FNSE, the Minister of Regional Development, and other council members also participated, while Senator Abubakar Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, and Mike Cowing, the Post-UNEP Consultant lead, joined virtually. Their collective engagement underscores the national and international significance of HYPREP’s mandate.

Under Prof. Zabbey’s visionary leadership and the strategic oversight of the Governing Council, more than 130 projects have been successfully executed, with many others progressing toward completion. These undertakings exemplify the administration’s dedication to translating policy into tangible benefits for communities historically impacted by hydrocarbon pollution.

One of the most remarkable achievements under Prof. Zabbey’s tenure has been the rehabilitation of oil-degraded mangroves. To date, over 75% of the targeted 560 hectares have been restored, with 420 hectares already exhibiting signs of ecological recovery. This initiative not only contributes to climate resilience but also revives the economic prospects of local communities dependent on the region’s natural resources.

Beyond environmental restoration, HYPREP has fundamentally reshaped public healthcare accessibility in Ogoniland. Through expansive medical outreach initiatives, thousands have benefited from life-changing surgical interventions, including cataract, hernia, and fibroid procedures. Additionally, the imminent operationalization of the Buan Cottage Hospital and the 100-bed Ogoni Specialist Hospital is set to revolutionize healthcare services in the region, ensuring sustained access to quality medical care.

HYPREP’s impact also extends to agricultural development, an essential pillar of economic stability in Ogoniland. Through strategic partnerships with local farmers, over 201 cassava farmers have received specialized training. Furthermore, discussions with the African Development Bank are progressing toward establishing a special agro-industrial processing zone—an initiative poised to enhance food security, bolster local production, and elevate farm gate income for agrarian communities.

It is, therefore, no surprise that Prof. Zabbey has earned the unwavering support of the Governing Council. His dynamic leadership, fortified by the strategic direction of the Council, has infused renewed purpose into HYPREP’s mission. The tangible progress achieved so far reassures the people of Ogoniland that their aspirations for environmental justice and socio-economic revitalization are not only recognized but are actively being realized.

This is more than a policy implementation success story—it is a transformative movement redefining governance in ecological restoration. The resounding endorsement of Prof. Zabbey signals not just recognition of past achievements but a clarion call for continued excellence. With each milestone, HYPREP advances toward a future where sustainable development is not just an ambition but a lived reality for the people of Ogoniland.

The international community must take note: the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not merely rhetorical—it is materializing through decisive action. As HYPREP pioneers a new era of environmental and economic resilience, it is imperative that global stakeholders lend their support to this historic endeavor.

The journey toward comprehensive remediation and socio-economic empowerment is far from over. However, with steadfast leadership and an unwavering commitment to results, the future of Ogoniland is being rewritten—one milestone at a time.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah reports from Abuja for IReporterOnline.