By Abdullahi Lukman
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has launched a targeted campaign against plastic pollution in Nigeria, with a primary focus on the creeks of the Niger Delta, as part of activities marking the 2025 World Environment Day.
During a sensitisation programme held in Bomu fishing port, Gokana LGA of Rivers State, HYPREP Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, stressed the urgent need to address plastic waste, particularly in coastal communities.
He revealed that the agency has banned single-use plastics in all HYPREP offices and project sites, and is promoting community awareness through environmental clubs in schools and outreach to local fisherfolk.
Zabbey warned that Nigeria discards an estimated 50–60 million sachet water packs daily, posing a major risk to aquatic life, climate resilience, and public health.
“Plastic pollution is a growing crisis that threatens our environment and future,” he said, calling for collaborative efforts from government, industries, civil society, and communities to develop and enforce effective policies.
The campaign aligns with this year’s World Environment Day theme, “Ending Plastic Pollution.”
Supporting HYPREP’s efforts, the paramount ruler of Bomu, HRH Benedict Vurasi-Tenalo, pledged to mobilise his community through town hall meetings and awareness drives.
Also marking the day, the Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development (CEHRD) and Foundation for Earth Rights Assembly (FERA) urged local and international oil companies to stop activities contributing to environmental degradation.
CEHRD Coordinator Dr. Nubari Nabie noted that over 400 million tons of plastic are produced globally each year, much of which ends up in oceans and waterways, including Nigeria’s polluted rivers.
FERA Executive Director Nosa Tokunbor added that less than 12% of Nigeria’s plastic waste is recycled and emphasized the urgency of implementing ambitious national policies.
He highlighted the need for durable product design, elimination of single-use plastics, and Nigeria’s engagement in global treaties like the Basel and Stockholm Conventions.
The organisations called for nationwide awareness campaigns and stronger partnerships between government agencies and civil society to ensure environmental sustainability, as the world moves toward a global treaty to curb plastic pollution.
