HYPREP Closes 30 Sites, Investigates 18 High-Risk Areas

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has closed 30 contaminated sites in Ogoniland, Rivers State, and commenced investigations into 18 high-risk pollution locations. Prof.

Nenibarini Zabbei, the project coordinator, disclosed this information during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday. The investigations are part of a broader initiative by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which previously identified 65 contaminated sites in Ogoniland, recommending remediation for affected areas.

HYPREP's current investigations focus on undocumented sites that may require remediation. Of the 30 closed sites, 13 have undergone natural attenuation, confirmed by the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency, indicating they no longer require remediation.

Additionally, remediation work is ongoing at 17 medium-risk complex sites, with four groundwater locations showing contaminant levels reduced below World Health Organization benchmarks. A high-level conference is scheduled for May 26, 2026, to strengthen partnerships among diplomats, donor agencies, and environmental experts.