To foster inclusivity and economic growth, the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has launched a sustainable alternative livelihood program, providing financial support to 40 Ogoni women in community markets.
The initiative, aimed at boosting small businesses in Ogoni communities, has disbursed N4,000,000 in its pilot support scheme for nano businesses across four local government areas, according to the HYPREP Project Coordination Office (PCO). This strategic move recognizes the vital role small businesses play in stimulating economic activity and promoting sustainable livelihoods at the community level.
Speaking at the event in Wiiyaakara, Khana LGA, Project Coordinator Professor Nenibarini Zabbey emphasized that beyond financial assistance, HYPREP seeks to “foster an environment where local businesses can thrive, and innovation can flourish, enhancing the ability of beneficiaries to move up the income ladder, while inspiring others along the same path.”
Professor Zabbey assured that HYPREP will continue to integrate all Ogonis regardless of their status, noting that empowering women to run successful businesses would eventually create stronger and more resilient communities.
The PCO stressed that by empowering these market women, HYPREP continues to prioritize inclusive participation in the Project implementation process and invest in Ogoniland’s future. The selection process was transparent and inclusive, with beneficiaries identified on the spot in local markets across the four LGAs.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to HYPREP and assured they would make judicious use of the funds. Participants who had earlier been trained in local enterprise development were issued certificates of participation.
Last year, HYPREP provided business support funds for 60 Ogoni small business owners as part of its sustainable alternative livelihood initiative to boost the local economy.
