By: Felix Ikpotor
Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has reacted to the designation of Ogoni mangrove wetland as a Ramsar site of international importance by the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands Ramsar, describing it as a boost to the ongoing clean-up exercise.
Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey in a statement to celebrate the feat said the recognition highlights the importance of the agency’s ongoing clean-up of oil impacted sites in Ogoniland.
He also stated that the recognition represents a proud moment for the Project, workers and Ogoni stakeholders working towards the implementation of the clean up exercise.
Zabbey said the wetlands covering over 31,700 hectares of mangrove ecosystems consist of islands, tidal creeks, mudflats, and mangrove forests that support a diverse range of biodiversity, such as fin fish, shellfish, crustaceans, crocodiles, turtles, and the endangered grey parrot. Zabbey adds that the wetland provides vital ecosystem services, including fisheries production, flood regulation, water purification, and carbon storage.
The PC said the recognition came after a careful assessment of the area’s ecological significance.
The PC said: “This global recognition highlights the ecological value of Ogoniland’s mangrove wetlands and affirms the importance of HYPREP’s ongoing, extensive restoration of oil-degraded mangroves in Ogoni. The mangrove wetlands are vital for maintaining biodiversity, safeguarding the environment, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. The designation is a proud moment for HYPREP, the people of Ogoni, and all stakeholders working towards the restoration and protection of the Ogoni environment”.
”This designation will therefore further support the livelihoods and cultural practices of local communities, promote ecotourism, and bring the region international recognition, ” he added.
The project coordinator said the designation fulfils a key recommendation within the UNEP Environmental Assessment Report on Ogoniland, stressing that the recognition signifies another significant milestone in implementing the UNEP recommendations on Ogoniland and further highlights the Federal government’s actions and commitment, through HYPREP, to the long-term environmental restoration and protection of Ogoniland.
Zabbey reiterates HYPREP’s dedication to restoring the Ogoni Environment through the
remediation and restoration of oil-damaged land, shorelines, and mangrove areas, while at the same time, calling for collective responsibility to sustain the progress of the Ogoni leanup and seek stakeholder support as the Project prepare to introduce a comprehensive, sustainable management plan for the Ogoni mangrove wetland.
