HYPREP Announces 45% Female Participation In Ogoni Cleanup

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has announced a significant milestone in its efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity in the Ogoni cleanup project.
According to Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, Project Coordinator of HYPREP, women will form 45% of the workforce in the next round of projects in Ogoni.
Zabbey noted that the development is part of HYPREP’s commitment to bridging the gap for women and underserved communities, including Ogoni persons living with disabilities.
He added that the Project has increased women’s participation from 5% to 45%, a significant step towards promoting gender equality and empowering women in the region.
Also, in addition in promoting women’s participation, he said HYPREP is also committed to supporting persons with disabilities.
He said: “The Project has identified five vocational skill sets for training, including fish farming, basic computer skills, photography, fashion and design, and shoe making. This initiative follows a Needs Assessment conducted with members of the disability community,” he said.
Zabbey highlighted the significant progress made by HYPREP across key thematic areas, including land and groundwater remediation, shoreline remediation, mangrove restoration, sustainable livelihood and capacity development, provision of potable water, and construction of critical infrastructure.
He added: “The Project has completed five water projects in Eteo, Taabaa, Uegwere-Boue, Bodo, and Bane, which are expected to be commissioned in August.”
The HYPREP head appealed to Civil Society groups to support the Project by developing programs around advocacy and sensitization.
He emphasized the importance of partnership and collaboration in ensuring the success of the Ogoni cleanup project.
He said: “HYPREP is partnering with local and international universities, institutions, communities, and regulators to deliver a sustainable cleanup program in Ogoni.
Dr. Otive Igbuzor, Founding Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development, called for renewed commitment, collective responsibility, and accountable action for the accelerated and transparent cleanup of Ogoni and the Niger Delta.
He pledged the readiness of his organization to partner with HYPREP through advocacy, monitoring, and mobilization.
The meeting was attended by prominent stakeholders, including Comrade Celestine Akpobari, Legborsi Saro Pygbara, Kentebe Ebirador, Nelly Umoren, Charity Laku Saue, and Chief Magnus Edoh, among others.
HYPREP Announces 45% Female Participation In Ogoni Cleanup is first published on The Whistler Newspaper