President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reconstitution of the Governing Council and Board of Trustees of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), a critical initiative aimed at addressing environmental degradation in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
The announcement, made by Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, positions the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, as the chairman of the newly reconstituted Governing Council.
The revamped council includes Loanyie Barituka Victor, representing environmental non-governmental organizations; Bright Onyebuchi Jacob and Henry Obiabure, representing Niger Delta communities; Prof. Barinedum Nwibere and Baride Gwezia, representing the Ogoni community; and Gideon Onyebuwa and Dr. Ibikunle Omotehinse, representing the nine oil-producing states.
Four alternate members were also appointed: Dr. Abraham Olungwe and Maeba Ekpobari for Ogoniland, and Joseph Akedesuo and Beauty Warejuowei for the broader Niger Delta.
The HYPREP Board of Trustees has been reconstituted with Emmanuel Deeyah reappointed as chairman.
Other members include Fred Igwe and Dr. Fred Kpakol for Ogoni communities, Mrs. Dorcas Amos for other Niger Delta communities, and Chief Jide Damazio, reappointed to represent environmental NGOs.
The restructuring comes amid renewed efforts to address the environmental and socio-economic challenges in the Niger Delta, particularly in Ogoniland, where oil pollution has devastated ecosystems and livelihoods.
Earlier this year, HYPREP reaffirmed its commitment to the Ogoni cleanup in collaboration with the Belgian government, with support pledged by the United Nations for mangrove restoration, climate change mitigation, and public health initiatives.
The reconstitution is seen as a strategic move to enhance the efficiency and transparency of HYPREP’s operations, following President Tinubu’s January meeting with key Rivers State stakeholders, including suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former Governor Nyesom Wike, to address the region’s cleanup and political tensions.
As HYPREP moves forward, stakeholders hope the new council and board will accelerate progress in restoring the Niger Delta’s environment and fostering sustainable development.
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