The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), will initiate a socio-economic study of Ogoniland in 2025.
The move is aimed at developing a comprehensive blueprint for the region’s post-cleanup socio-economic development according to the project coordinator, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey.
Prof Zabbey also announced the release of its Ogoni Postgraduate Scholarship list, featuring 300 successful candidates—100 for PhD programs and 200 for Master’s programs.
In his New Year message, Prof Zabbey said the initiative underscores the Federal Government’s commitment through HYPREP.
He said the project is committed to human capital development as a strategic approach to establishing alternative livelihoods for affected communities while empowering Ogoni youths to make meaningful contributions to society.
Zabbey congratulated all the successful candidates, encouraging them to utilize the postgraduate education support fund to cover fees and research expenses. He emphasized that, as an added benefit, this initiative is expected to positively impact their communities, highlighting education as a powerful catalyst for transformation.
Prof. Zabbey said ‘‘the Project Coordination Office of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) remains dedicated to executing all its projects and activities in line with the recommendations of the UNEP Report on Ogoniland and the provisions outlined in the 2016 Official Gazette that established HYPREP.
‘‘The project will also initiate a socio-economic study of Ogoniland in the new year, aimed at developing a comprehensive blueprint for the region’s post-cleanup socio-economic development.
‘‘Additionally, a three-year extensive public health study (human bio-monitoring) focused on the Ogoni people is set to begin in the second quarter. This research will be led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a specialized agency of the World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with local institutions and researchers. These upcoming projects will demand active community involvement and participation.
‘‘As we step into 2025, let us stay united and dedicated to fulfilling HYPREP’s mandate. With continued support, harmony, and collaboration among stakeholders and communities, we can overcome challenges and accomplish significant milestones that will benefit both the environment and the people.
‘‘With this in mind, I extend my best wishes for a prosperous, peaceful, and rewarding New Year to everyone’’.