NEPL/Seplat JV Graduates 623 Teachers In Edo, Delta

The NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL)/Seplat Energy Joint Venture has graduated 623 teachers and education inspectors under the 2026 Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP), reaffirming its commitment to improving education standards in Edo and Delta states.

The graduation ceremony took place at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, where stakeholders from government and the education sector gathered to celebrate the participants’ achievements.

Speaking at the event, Chioma Afe, Director of External Affairs and Social Performance at Seplat Energy, encouraged the teachers to apply their newly acquired skills with purpose.

She reminded them that “Teach, inspire and transform” is more than a slogan, describing it as a responsibility to shape future generations.

Representing NEPL’s Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart, Mr. Oluwaseyi Orimoloye described STEP as a collaborative initiative delivering measurable social impact.

He noted that the programme equips educators with critical thinking abilities, leadership competencies and technology-driven teaching tools.

Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, represented by Finance Commissioner Engr. Emmanuel Okoebor, said the initiative aligns with the state government’s education reform agenda.

The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, represented by Mrs. Caroline Ikem, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to raising teacher quality nationwide.

She urged participants to share their knowledge, stressing that the nation’s future depends on well-equipped educators.

Also speaking, Donna McGowan, Country Director of the British Council, represented by Chikodi Onyemerela, underscored the need for continuous professional development, particularly in digital literacy and modern teaching methods.

Delta State Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, and Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, commended the joint venture partners and encouraged the graduates to cascade their learning within their schools and communities.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the Teacher Innovation Contest, which showcased market-ready solutions developed during the programme.

Among the winners were Stephen Egbeburu for the Eco “Fueless” Generator; Matthew Nwokoye for Learning Solutions; and Faith Igbayo for Live FaceFoods, launched in 2020.