By Abdullahi Lukman
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has rebuilt one of two water facilities that recently collapsed in Ogoni communities, Rivers State, and is working to restore the second, the agency’s Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, has disclosed
HYPREP confirmed that the water facility in Ebubu community, Eleme Local Government Area, has been reconstructed and is now in use, while rebuilding work is ongoing at the Gwara community facility in Khana LGA.
Both facilities were among 16 water projects constructed by the agency to provide potable water in Ogoniland.
The two facilities collapsed in November, sparking public criticism. HYPREP said investigations into the causes are ongoing, describing the incidents as a major challenge but one from which lessons are being drawn.
Speaking at a project review meeting and scorecard presentation to Ogoni stakeholders in Port Harcourt, Prof Zabbey said water supply had already been restored in Ebubu and that efforts were being intensified to ensure Gwara residents regain access to safe drinking water.
Zabbey said HYPREP is also addressing other challenges, including community land disputes, vandalism, threats of re-pollution and operational constraints, to ensure the success of the Ogoni clean-up.
He quoted Environment Minister Balarabe Lawal as saying the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope National Agenda has made the Ogoni clean-up a national priority, placing environmental restoration and development at the centre of national focus.
According to Zabbey, the project has made significant progress, with shoreline remediation at 72.7 percent completion, mangrove restoration at 99 percent and soil and groundwater remediation at medium-risk sites reaching 39.01 percent.
The project coordinator said 16 water facilities now supply 42 communities, while construction of 29 additional facilities is ongoing.
He urged Ogoni stakeholders to set aside differences and work together to ensure the sustainability and overall success of the project.
