President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a complete overhaul of the Governing Council and Board of Trustees of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYREP), in a move aimed at revitalising the project’s leadership structure and ensuring fair representation for all key stakeholders across Ogoniland and the Niger Delta.
HYREP, established to address environmental degradation and restore livelihoods in communities affected by hydrocarbon pollution—particularly in Ogoniland—has long been recognised as a vital federal government intervention. The President’s decision marks a renewed commitment to tackling long-standing environmental challenges in the oil-rich region.
According to a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the reconstituted Governing Council will be chaired by the Minister of Environment, reflecting the government’s intention to give environmental policy experts a leading role in guiding HYREP’s operations.
The Council will also have diverse representation from various sectors and communities:
Loanyie Barituka Victor – representing non-governmental organisations with a focus on environmental issues.
Bright Onyebuchi Jacob and Henry Obiabure – representing Niger Delta communities.
Professor Barinedum Michael Nwibere and Barrister Baride Abdul Gwezia – representing the Ogoni community.
Gideon Onyebuwa Melfor and Dr Ibikunle Omotehinse – representing the nine oil-producing states.
To ensure broader participation, four alternate members have also been appointed:
Rev. Canon Dr Abraham Olungwe (reappointed) and Engr. Maeba Power Ekpobari – alternate members representing Ogoniland.
Joseph Akedesuo and Beauty Warejuowei – alternate members representing the Niger Delta communities.
In addition to the Governing Council, President Tinubu has reconstituted the HYREP Board of Trustees. Emmanuel Nwiika Deeyah has been reappointed as Chairman, underscoring confidence in his previous leadership.
Other members of the Board include:
Fred Mbombo Igwe and Dr Fred Barivule Kpakol – representing Ogoni communities and stakeholders.
Mrs Dorcas Amos – representing the Niger Delta communities.
Chief Jide Damazio (reappointed) – representing NGOs engaged in environmental work.
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project is one of the most ambitious environmental clean-up operations in Nigeria’s history, with a mandate to restore lands and waters damaged by decades of oil exploration and spills.
By bringing in a mix of experienced hands, community representatives, and environmental advocates, the new Governing Council and Board of Trustees are expected to improve project execution, foster transparency, and build trust among stakeholders.
The President’s appointments are seen as part of a broader strategy to address environmental injustices in the Niger Delta, promote community participation in decision-making, and ensure that remediation projects are implemented efficiently and sustainably.