Title: HYPREP Begins 2nd Phase Fish Stock Assessment to Track Biodiversity Recovery in Ogoni Creeks Date Published: 27 June 2025 Description: The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has launched the second phase of a Fish Stock Assessment in Bomu Creek, Ogoniland, as part of its ongoing efforts to measure the ecological recovery of rehabilitated mangrove ecosystems.Led by HYPREP’s Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, the assessment seeks to evaluate the relationship between mangrove restoration and fish stock improvement one year after mangrove seedlings were planted in the area. The study is in partnership with local fishermen and researchers from the Fisheries Department of the University of Port Harcourt.Using fish fencing across three tidal flats previously studied before restoration began, the study compares post-rehabilitation data with baseline data collected during the first phase conducted between January and March 2024.Preliminary results are promising. Mudskippers, known for their sensitivity to hydrocarbon pollution, have reappeared in the area—indicating improved water quality. There has also been a visible increase in periwinkle populations and higher mullet landings, suggesting a revival in aquatic biodiversity.According to HYPREP, the pilot mangrove planting in Bomu is 93% complete, while the first phase of shoreline cleanup across five Ogoni coastal communities is 51.1% complete. These efforts are expected to restore breeding grounds for fish, improve water quality, and boost livelihoods dependent on fishing in the region.As part of its data transparency policy, HYPREP has promised regular updates to stakeholders on the ecological restoration of the Ogoni creeks, emphasizing that mangrove regeneration is critical for carbon sequestration, shoreline protection, and long-term fish productivity.  Attached Images: 8a68abbd205c1d45fc86745d718d49d51f6081d2684ba65ace140eb3f883c1a1.jpg, bb0c9cf06722d4bd850a64b8d4d732dd3921a456e5423a099e4fa21d582338d7.jpg Attached Video: None