The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has reaffirmed its commitment to providing potable water across Ogoniland in line with recommendations of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report.
In a statement to mark World Water Day, HYPREP Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, said the initiative reflects the agency’s resolve to extend water access beyond oil-impacted communities.
Zabbey noted that the provision of potable water across Ogoni communities aligns with the principle that access to clean water is a fundamental human right.
“With a sense of equality and inclusivity, we are implementing this component of the Ogoni Cleanup Programme. To date, we have successfully provided potable water to over 43 communities in Ogoni,” he said.
He added that the agency has commenced Phase 3 of its water projects, which will benefit an additional 17 communities, while windmill-powered water schemes in less populated areas of Khana Local Government Area are progressing steadily.
Zabbey also disclosed that the K-Dere Water Project, which is over 99 per cent complete, will soon be commissioned.
“This is as work continues on other water projects across Ogoni,” he said.
The HYPREP coordinator further stated that the agency is on track to meet Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring access to safe and sustainable water and sanitation for all by 2030.
He emphasised that the agency is committed to delivering water projects that meet the highest standards and remain sustainable.
“To ensure sustainability, we have adopted a joint management model involving HYPREP, host communities, the Rivers State Ministry of Water Resources and Rural Development, and the Rivers State Small Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Agency,” he said.
Zabbey added that Water Consumers’ Associations have been established in communities such as Nchia in Eleme, alongside training programmes conducted in collaboration with non-governmental organisations.
He stressed that community ownership is key to sustaining the water projects.
“We strongly believe that sustainable water supply begins with community ownership, support, and protection of these facilities,” he said.
He also reiterated the call by the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, urging communities to safeguard the water infrastructure provided.
“Together, we can achieve our goal of providing safe drinking water to all Ogoni communities and combat waterborne diseases caused by contaminated water,” Zabbey added.
Blessing Ibunge
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