The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has achieved five million man-hours without a fatality or Lost Time Injury (LTI), a milestone the Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, described as clear proof of the agency’s entrenched Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) culture.
Speaking during a formal celebration at the Bomu shoreline remediation site in Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Prof. Zabbey said the achievement was not accidental but the outcome of deliberate planning, strict adherence to safety standards, and collective commitment by all stakeholders.
Represented at the event by the Director of Technical Services, Prof. Damian-Paul Aguiyi, the Project Coordinator expressed delight at the accomplishment, congratulating management, staff, contractors, and field workers for their dedication.
“This five million LTI-free man-hours milestone is a significant achievement for everyone involved in the cleanup project. It reflects our individual and collective commitment to safety and teamwork,” he said.
He stressed that while the milestone is worth celebrating, adherence to HSE regulations must remain non-negotiable.
“HSE rules protect people and the environment, reduce accidents and incidents, improve productivity and efficiency, save costs, and enhance the reputation of HYPREP. Safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he added.
Prof. Zabbey commended HSE officers for ensuring strict compliance with safety procedures on site, as well as site nurses, civil security personnel, community workers, cleaners, administrative officers, and contractor teams for their various roles in maintaining safe operations.
Describing the project as a relay race, he noted that every participant must properly “hand over the baton” to ensure seamless operations.
“Your work is connected to the next person’s duty. That is why we must continue to carry out our responsibilities carefully, safely, and responsibly. Every role matters, and every effort counts,” he stated.
As part of activities marking the milestone, the Project Coordinator approved the distribution of reusable water flasks to staff as a token of appreciation and a reinforcement of the agency’s stance against single-use plastics. Contractors were also presented with gifts in recognition of their commitment to safety compliance.
In his remarks, the Renaissance Africa Energy Company/JV Representative in HYPREP, Engr. Ehioze Igbinomwanhia, described the five million LTI-free man-hours as outstanding and commendable. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to providing the necessary technical and financial support to ensure the success of the project and urged workers to sustain compliance with safety standards.
Community leaders also lauded the milestone. Speaking on behalf of the Bomu Community, the Paramount Ruler, HRH Benedict Tenalo—represented by the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs, Chief Kpoobari Vinla—congratulated HYPREP on the achievement and called for strict monitoring of contractors. He assured the agency of the community’s continued support in maintaining peace across project sites.
Other traditional rulers who commended HYPREP’s safety record and community engagement efforts included HRH Chief T.E.K. Akobe (JP) of Eteo Community in Eleme LGA and Acting Paramount Ruler of K. Dere Community, Chief Isaac Gberetee. They urged stakeholders to sustain support for Prof. Zabbey and emphasized the need for continued attention to impacted communities.
Speaking on behalf of contractors, Renshaw Benjamin expressed appreciation to HYPREP for the opportunity to participate in the remediation exercise, pledging continued adherence to safety regulations with a target of achieving another five million LTI-free man-hours. Representatives of community workers echoed similar sentiments.
Earlier, HYPREP’s HSE Lead, Boma Eddie-Amadi, attributed the zero-fatality record since the commencement of the project to the safety consciousness and dedication of all personnel. She urged workers and drivers involved in the project not to relent in discharging their duties diligently.
The event drew attendance from several traditional rulers across impacted communities, including HRH Chief Friday Dimkpa of Gbe, HRH Chief Kadilo Sooh of B. Dere, HRH Chief Fidelis Nkerelo of Gio, Chief Baridi Kobani representing Goi Community, and Chief Goddy Nwikpo representing Wiiyaakara Community, alongside HYPREP officials, security representatives, unit heads, and community worker representatives.
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