The Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal, on Tuesday in Abuja reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling environmental degradation in Ogoniland.
Lawal, who also chairs the Governing Council of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, gave the assurance at the joint meeting of the HYPREP Governing Council and the Board of Trustees, BoT, of the Ogoni Trust Fund, OTF.
He said both bodies were vital instruments of accountability and hope, charged with transforming years of neglect into renewed health, prosperity, and environmental sustainability.
“The world is watching. We must rise to the occasion and deliver on the mandate with transparency, accountability and urgency.
“The Ogoni clean-up is not only a national duty but also an international model for environmental justice. Its success will demonstrate Nigeria’s integrity, capacity and commitment to sustainable development.
“I therefore call for synergy between the Governing Council and the BoT for harmonised strategies and alignment of priorities towards the timely and effective implementation of the Ogoni clean-up,” Lawal said.
The minister urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively to accelerate the pace of the project, strengthen institutions, and consolidate the trust and confidence of the Ogoni people.
“HYPREP was established under the Federal Ministry of Environment by a 2016 notice, with the mandate to remediate hydrocarbon-impacted sites in Ogoniland and restore livelihoods.
“Since its inception, and particularly since 2023, HYPREP has made notable progress in addressing the legacy of degradation, supporting community development initiatives, and laying the foundation for sustainable livelihoods in Ogoni,” he added.
On his part, Mr Emmanuel Deeyah, BoT chairman of the OTF, assured that the board would discharge its functions judiciously and not fail the Ogoni people.
He also pledged the timely payment of contractors working in Ogoniland to enable them to carry out their duties effectively.