The Federal Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to the complete and transparent implementation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recommendations on environmental restoration in Ogoniland.

Minister of Environment Balarabe Abbas Lawal reaffirmed this commitment during the commissioning of two water facilities in Bane and Gwara communities in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The Minister, in his keynote address, pointed out that the projects reflect the government’s dedication to environmental restoration, public health improvement, and the upliftment of the people of the state.

He said, “We will continue to prioritise projects that improve the lives of our people, ensuring clean water, healthy soil, productive livelihoods, and a safe environment.”

The commissioning of the water facilities is part of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), which aims to restore environmental integrity and promote sustainable development in Ogoniland.

The project is a key component of the Federal Government’s efforts to implement the UNEP recommendations and ensure the sustainable development of the region.

Also, the Minister commended HYPREP for its technical leadership, contractors for their dedication, community representatives for their cooperation, and development partners for their support.

“This is a fresh start for the people of Bane and Gwara after decades of hardship caused by pollution,” Lawal said.

However, the Minister urged the people of Bane and Gwara areas to take full ownership of the water facilities and ensure their long-term sustainability, saying, “The projects should be protected, used responsibly, and remain functional for the long term.”

Meanwhile, the Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, said the water facilities will provide clean and safe drinking water to the communities.

“These facilities, like others inaugurated earlier, are a lifeline, and today’s event stands as proof that the vision of a restored and thriving Ogoniland is steadily taking shape,” Zabbey stated.

Zabbey pointed out the project’s achievements, including the completion of 14 water facilities supplying potable water to 40 Ogoni communities, saying the commissioning of the Bane and Gwara facilities will increase the number of communities with access to clean and safe drinking water to 45.

Zabbey, however, appealed for continued support and cooperation from stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.

“We continue to work closely with community leaders, youth and women, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure solutions are identified and implementation continues smoothly,” he said. (The Guardian)