Ogoni cleanup needs more support from private sector, donors – Minister

Nigeria's Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, is calling for greater private sector involvement and donor funding to ensure the continued success of the Ogoni environmental restoration project. Speaking at a conference in Abuja focused on facilitating donor and diplomatic support for the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Lawal emphasized that the initiative is a long-term endeavor demanding sustained financial backing, technical expertise, and international collaboration.

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The project is supposed to be a lifespan project. We must move towards achieving its main aim, which is environmental restoration and sustainable development.

Lawal acknowledged the foundational scientific assessment provided by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which underpins the remediation efforts in Ogoni land. He reported that hundreds of hectares of polluted land have been cleaned up, with ongoing remediation at additional sites. The minister also highlighted the delivery of water schemes to affected communities, alongside ongoing ecosystem restoration, livelihood empowerment programs, and healthcare projects.

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We have remediated hundreds of hectares of polluted land, and more sites are still being worked on. Water schemes have also been delivered to affected communities.

Despite these advancements, the minister warned that funding remains a critical obstacle to sustaining the project's momentum. He appealed to development partners, donor agencies, international financial institutions, foundations, and private sector entities to increase their support. Lawal stated that the Ogoni cleanup is a global model for environmental recovery, but stressed that no single organization or government can achieve its goals alone, underscoring the need for comprehensive financial, technical, scientific, and strategic assistance.

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While substantial progress has been made, the journey is not yet complete. The implementation of UNEP recommendations requires long-term commitment and sustained financial and technical support.