The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in the ongoing cleanup programme in Ogoni.

The project coordinator of HYPREP, Nenibarini Zabbey, reaffirmed this commitment in a statement in Abuja on Thursday.

His remarks followed his appearance before the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, where he emphasised his long-standing stance on transparency and accountability.

’‘I have always been a strong advocate for transparency and accountability, even before assuming my current role as the coordinator,’’ he stated.

Briefing the committee on HYPREP’s activities and its efforts to ensure transparency, Mr Zabbey noted that the project is making significant progress in accelerating the cleanup process.

He said HYPREP regularly updates its website (www.hyprep.gov.ng) to keep the public informed on project progress.

Mr Zabbey noted measures to enhance transparency, such as monthly contractors’ meetings to ensure work meets specifications and deadlines.

He highlighted the establishment of a Milestone Evaluation Committee to oversee contract milestones, ensuring quality control and value for money.

The coordinator also cited the Technical Coordination Committee (TCC) for strategic guidance and the Remediation Document Review Committee (RDRC) for evaluating site characterisation and remedial action plans.

“In line with its policy of transparency and accountability, HYPREP organises regular stakeholder meetings involving youths, community leaders, Civil Society Organisations, sponsors, and regulators,” Mr Zabbey added.

According to him, these engagements have fostered a robust stakeholder framework, allowing HYPREP to keep stakeholders informed, gather valuable feedback, and incorporate their input into planning.

“For fiscal responsibility, the project’s books are audited monthly, quarterly, and annually by internal and external auditors, as well as by the Office of the Auditor General of the Federation,” he added.

He apologised to the Senate Committee on Public Accounts for his previous inability to attend earlier invitations, citing official responsibilities.

Senator Aliyu Wadada, the committee chairman, accepted Mr Zabbey’s explanation and requested that HYPREP provide additional documents when it next appears before the committee.

The meeting was then adjourned indefinitely.

(NAN)