Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — To address the persistent health issues caused by oil contamination in Ogoniland, HYPREP has declared a three-year initiative focused on human health surveillance. This project will be conducted alongside the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer, known as IARC.

The research initiative starting in July aims to examine the health hazards associated with cancer within Ogoni populations who have been exposed to harmful hydrocarbon substances. This investigation aligns with crucial suggestions outlined in the 2011 United Nations Environment Programme, known as UNEP, report concerning Ogoniland.

At the inaugural gathering of regulators and asset owners during the first-quarter conference in Port Harcourt, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, who serves as the project coordinator for HYPREP, highlighted this endeavor as a significant step towards health-oriented environmental restoration efforts.

Zabbey mentioned that the research will be conducted independently and will include cooperation with nearby universities and healthcare organizations in Rivers State.

We have recently entered into an agreement with the International Agency for Research on Cancer at the World Health Organization to carry out a human monitoring study over a period of three years in Ogoni.

Remember that UNEP suggested conducting a health study subsequent to the environmental assessment. The residents have been subjected to carcinogenic hydrocarbons such as benzene and ethylbenzene via their drinking water. While we shouldn't presuppose the findings, immediate investigation should commence.

As he states, identifying cancer at an early stage is vital, and this research aims to supply information to shape future healthcare policies and systems in Ogoniland.

Zabbey also disclosed that HYPREP is constructing the Ogoni Specialist Hospital to bolster the health aspect of the remediation effort. This facility will feature state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment such as cutting-edge MRI technology.

We have recently come back from Germany following the completion of a factory acceptance test for our new equipment. I am pleased to share that we will be installing one of the most sophisticated MRI systems in the area at Ogoni Hospital. This institution will accommodate various specialized departments typical of a comprehensive healthcare center, such as gynecology and infectious disease services, tailored specifically to meet the community’s medical requirements.

He highlighted that HYPREP's larger purpose extends further than just environmental cleanup, characterizing the initiative as a blueprint for sustainable development and science-driven rehabilitation.

"What we're implementing in Ogoni goes beyond remediation; it's about creating a model that can be duplicated throughout the Niger Delta. We aim to generate knowledge that will reshape the socioeconomic environment," Zabbey emphasized.

The coordinator at HYPREP emphasized the significance of collaborative alliances, ensuring their efforts resonate with UN Sustainable Development Goal 17, focusing on partnerships aimed at achieving these objectives. 

Although we possess the internal capability to lead the initiative, collaborating with asset holders, regulatory bodies, civic organizations, and government entities at various levels remains essential," he stated. "This is precisely why gatherings such as these hold significant value; they enable us to share progress reports, gather insights, and confirm that all our choices adhere to sustainability principles.

He stated that World Health Organization representatives will reach Nigeria by mid-July to complete logistical arrangements and start engaging stakeholders. This includes scheduled meetings with the Rivers State Ministry of Environment as well as local entities such as the University of Port Harcourt and Rivers State University.

“Local researchers are critical. They understand the terrain and the people. WHO won’t conduct this study in isolation, they’ll collaborate with our universities and hospitals to ensure data integrity and relevance,” Zabbey said.

He concluded by assuring stakeholders of transparency and independence in the study’s execution. “We’re providing the enabling environment, then stepping back to allow the experts to carry out their work. Their findings will guide long-term healthcare interventions for the people of Ogoni.”