FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT
HYDROCARBON POLLUTION REMEDIATION PROJECT (HYPREP)
OFFICE OF THE PROJECT COORDINATOR
PRESS STATEMENT
HYPREP CELEBRATES DESIGNATION OF OGONI MANGROVE WETLAND AS A RAMSAR SITE OF INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE
- The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) is pleased to share the exciting news that the Ogoniland mangrove wetland has officially been designated as a Ramsar Site of International Importance by the Secretariat of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. This global recognition highlights the ecological value of Ogoniland’s mangrove wetlands and affirms the importance of HYPREP’s ongoing, extensive restoration of oil-degraded mangroves in Ogoni. The mangrove wetlands are vital for maintaining biodiversity, safeguarding the environment, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. The designation is a proud moment for HYPREP, the people of Ogoni, and all stakeholders working towards the restoration and protection of the Ogoni environment.
- The wetlands covering over 31,700 hectares of mangrove ecosystems consist of islands, tidal creeks, mudflats, and mangrove forests that support a diverse range of biodiversity, such as fin fish, shellfish, crustaceans, crocodiles, turtles, and the endangered grey parrot. The wetland provides vital ecosystem services, including fisheries production, flood regulation, water purification, and carbon storage. This designation will therefore further support the livelihoods and cultural practices of local communities, promote ecotourism, and bring the region international recognition.
- Interestingly, this recognition marks the conclusion of a meticulous process that started in 2024 when HYPREP submitted a memorandum to the National Council on Environment seeking support for designating the Ogoni wetlands as a Ramsar site. Following the Council’s review and approval, the Honourable Minister of Environment and Chairman of HYPREP’s Governing Council, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, formally wrote to the Ramsar Convention Secretariat requesting international recognition of the wetlands in Ogoniland.
- After a careful assessment of the area’s ecological significance, the Ramsar Convention Secretariat has now granted the designation. Recognising the Ogoniland wetland as one of the wetlands of global importance will bolster ongoing HYPREP environmental restoration efforts in the area. The recognition also promotes stronger conservation measures and sustainable management of the wetlands for the benefit of current and future generations.
- Most importantly, the public is encouraged to note that this designation fulfils a key recommendation within the UNEP Environmental Assessment Report on Ogoniland. Therefore, the recognition signifies another significant milestone in implementing the UNEP recommendations on Ogoniland and further highlights the Federal Government’s actions and commitment, through HYPREP, to the long-term environmental restoration and protection of Ogoniland.
- HYPREP remains dedicated to restoring the Ogoni Environment through the remediation and restoration of oil-damaged land, shorelines, and mangrove areas. At the same time, we call for collective responsibility to sustain the progress of the Ogoni Cleanup and seek stakeholder support as we prepare to introduce a comprehensive, sustainable management plan for the Ogoni mangrove wetland.
Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey
Project Coordinator
6th March 2026