BY OJO SAMSON AYOMIDE
In a resolute effort to fulfill the recommendations of the UNEP Report and address longstanding environmental challenges in Ogoniland, the Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to a cleaner and healthier environment.
The Minister of Environment, Hon. Balarabe Abbas Lawal, made this declaration during the
commissioning of four water schemes and an inspection of health facilities implemented by the
Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) in Terabor Community, Gokana Local
Government Area of Rivers State.
The event showcased the government’s dedication to the well-being of Ogoni residents, aligning with the UNEP Report’s directives. Minister Lawal emphasized the essential pillars of access to clean water, robust healthcare, and livelihood restoration, as he commissioned the water schemes and symbolically planted mangroves in Bomu as part of the mangrove restoration program.
Highlighting the imperative of community involvement in the UNEP Report implementation, Minister Lawal called upon Traditional Rulers in Ogoni to continue supporting government initiatives for a collective goal of creating a healthier, cleaner, and safer environment.
Addressing concerns over the pace of UNEP Report implementation, the Minister revealed that President Ahmed Tinubu expressed dissatisfaction with the sluggish progress over seven years. To expedite the project, President Tinubu signed an undertaking to ensure swift execution.
The Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey, reiterated HYPREP’s commitment to UNEP’s recommendations, particularly in providing potable water.
He announced the completion of six water contracts in phase I, benefitting communities like Alode, Barako, and now Terabor, Ebubu, Kpean, and Korokoro. The Terabor water facility, with a tank capacity of 900,000 liters, boasts an 80-kilometer reticulation reaching seven communities in Gokana.
Prof Zabbey disclosed the commencement of Phase II, involving 14 contracts to extend potable water across 52 Ogoni communities. The sustainability of these water facilities was assured, with plans for community-based management and potential solar power integration.
The Gberemene Gokana Kingdom, HRM King Festus Babari Bagia, emphasized the importance of
equipping livelihood beneficiaries to discourage a return to illegal oil bunkering activities. He urged the Minister to uphold international standards in the cleanup and all associated projects, acknowledging the ongoing efforts while underscoring the persistent threat of oil spills and devastation in the Niger Delta.
