The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has reaffirmed its commitment to the environmental restoration of Ogoniland, Nigeria, on World Environment Day 2026. Project Coordinator Professor Nenibarini Zabbey outlined ongoing efforts including shoreline cleanup, mangrove restoration, soil and groundwater remediation, and the Ogoni Power Project. The initiative aims to restore the socio-ecological landscape of the Niger Delta, which has suffered decades of hydrocarbon pollution. A key component of the cleanup is the large-scale mangrove restoration project, which involves planting millions of native mangroves and removing invasive nipa palms. These mangroves are expected to sequester carbon and generate carbon credits, providing long-term funding for local communities. Thousands of Ogoni youth and women are employed as mangrove planters and environmental monitors, and the project includes livelihood support, health interventions, and vocational training to ensure economic resilience.
