The Federal Government has reiterated its dedication to addressing the environmental challenges faced by the Ogoni people in Rivers State. This commitment was emphasized during a ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the Ogoni Cleanup project, held in Bodo City, Gokana Local Government Area. Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, assured attendees that President Bola Tinubu is focused on the successful completion of the cleanup initiative.

During the event, Lawal unveiled the Ogoni Cleanup Monument, which he described as a lasting symbol of the government's promise to the Ogoni community. "Ten years ago in this very place, the flag-off of the Ogoni cleanup took place. Today, we return to affirm that commitment. The monument stands as a permanent reminder of a promise made and a promise kept," he stated.

The Minister highlighted the progress made under the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), noting that significant strides have been achieved in restoring the environment. He pointed to the establishment of various infrastructures, including the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration, which is anticipated to attract international collaboration and research.

Lawal also reported improvements in soil and groundwater remediation, the restoration of mangroves, and public health initiatives, stating that the resurgence of aquatic life in local waterways is a testament to the recovery of the ecosystem. "One of the most important developments is the evidence of ecosystem recovery. The fish, periwinkles, crabs, and shrimps are back. This is vital for the local economy and community livelihoods," he said.

In a notable achievement, four local government areas in Ogoniland have received Ramsar accreditation certificates, recognizing their wetland conservation efforts and potentially opening avenues for international funding.

The Minister announced the commencement of phase two of the shoreline cleanup project, which will address more complex remediation sites following the completion of simpler ones. He urged stakeholders to maintain open communication with HYPREP leadership to foster further development and avoid divisive actions.

Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, the HYPREP Project Coordinator, described the Ogoni cleanup as the largest oil remediation project globally, highlighting its significance in mangrove restoration. He noted that the project has created over 8,500 direct jobs for local youth and women, with 1,420 community workers receiving certificates during the event.

Zabbey also called for responsible harvesting of returning aquatic life and the protection of mangroves to ensure ongoing ecological recovery. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the project, including community disputes and misinformation, but praised the cooperation among stakeholders that has helped to overcome these issues.

Local leaders, including Dumnamene Dekor, a member of the House of Representatives, and Magnus Abe, chairman of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, emphasized the need for unity among Ogoni leaders to maximize support from the government. They stressed that the prosperity of Ogoniland depends on collaborative efforts rather than division.

As the anniversary event concluded, calls for a more comprehensive approach to HYPREP's initiatives were made, including interventions in education and economic empowerment, alongside environmental remediation, to ensure holistic development for the Ogoni people.