NEPL/Seplat JV Expands STEAM Education Footprint with New Labs in Edo Schools
By Rashidat Olushola Okunlade
The joint venture between NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) and Seplat Energy Plc has commissioned two new Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) laboratories in Edo State, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable educational development.
The newly inaugurated facilities, located at Ogbe Secondary School in Oredo Local Government Area and Uselu Secondary School in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, are designed to enhance practical learning and stimulate academic excellence among students.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony in Benin City, the Director of External Affairs and Social Performance at Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, disclosed that the joint venture has now delivered nine STEAM laboratories in Edo State, bringing the total number across Edo and Delta States to 14.
She explained that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to deepen educational sustainability and innovation, noting that similar interventions would be extended to other operational states. According to her, the JV has also implemented complementary programmes such as the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, the Pearls Quiz Competition, and Access to Energy projects.
“The STEAM Lab is intended to integrate science and technology more effectively into basic and secondary education curricula, enabling both students and teachers to apply theoretical knowledge in practical ways,” Afe said.
She further highlighted that the laboratories are equipped with modern tools and powered by solar energy systems to guarantee uninterrupted electricity supply, ensuring optimal utilization.
Representing the Managing Director of NEPL, Nicolas Foucart, Mr. Reginald Duke, Lead Community Relations, Western Assets, emphasized that the facilities are tailored to foster creativity, critical thinking, and innovation among students.
He noted that the investment reflects the JV’s shared vision of equipping young Nigerians with relevant competencies required in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
“We believe that investing in education is one of the most impactful ways to shape the future of our youth and the nation,” he stated.
Former Edo State Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, described the initiative as a strategic and commendable investment in human capital development. He called on other corporate organisations to emulate the NEPL/Seplat JV’s example in fulfilling their corporate social responsibility obligations.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Education, Edith Ebomoyi, described the commissioning as a significant milestone in advancing the state’s education sector.
Principals of the beneficiary schools, Mrs. Itohanmwen Augustina of Ogbe Secondary School and Mrs. Obaretin Osayanmo of Uselu Secondary School, expressed appreciation for the intervention. They pledged to safeguard the facilities and ensure their effective use in achieving the intended educational outcomes.
The commissioning underscores the growing role of public-private partnerships in strengthening Nigeria’s education system and promoting sustainable community development.
