HYPREP Trains 2,400 Ogoni Youths for Economic Empowerment

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) is currently providing technical and professional training to no fewer than 2,400 Ogoni youths as part of its efforts to merge environmental restoration with economic empowerment in oil-polluted communities. This initiative is part of over 120 projects being implemented by HYPREP across Ogoniland, Rivers State, which include environmental remediation, mangrove restoration, potable water, healthcare, skills acquisition, and livelihood support.

Project coordinator Professor Nenibarini Zabbey shared these details during an oversight visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Host Communities, led by Hon. Dumnamene Deekor. The committee inspected various intervention projects and commended the training program for enhancing employment prospects for the youths.

Zabbey also mentioned ongoing healthcare initiatives, including a specialist hospital designed for advanced medical services and a human-health monitoring study investigating health impacts from hydrocarbon contamination. The committee identified flooding as a challenge to remediation efforts and called for increased funding from oil companies responsible for pollution.