Yemisi Izuora
The NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL)/Seplat Energy Joint Venture has commissioned two Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) laboratories built at the Ogbe and Uselu Secondary Schools in Oredo and Ikpoba Okha Local Government Areas of Edo State
The laboratories which were commissioned on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 in Benin, the Edo State Capital aim to drive educational sustainability in State and promote excellence amongst students.
Speaking at the commissioning, Mrs. Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy Plc, said the Joint Venture has so far built and commissioned nine STEAM Laboratories in the state; thus increasing the numbers of STEAM laboratories so far established in Edo and Delta State to 14.
She said the STEAM Labs were part of the organization’s commitment to sustaining education in Edo and Delta States, whilst assuring that the same development would soon be extended to other states where the company operates.
According to her, the Joint Venture had successfully executed various educational programs in the States, which include the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Program, the Pearls Quiz competition, inclusive of the STEAM Labs and Access to Energy Projects.
Afe said: “The STEAM Lab is one where we want to further inculcate STEAM within the curriculum of basic education and secondary schools.
“The NNPCLimited and Seplat Energy took a decision years ago to start to put in place STEAM Labs. This allows the children and the teachers to practically use all the learnings that they have taken from the various activities and programs.”
Afe added that the laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and solar power to ensure that the centres have 24- hour constant power.
She commended the Edo State Government for providing the enabling environment, and NEPL for their support in the establishment of the laboratories.
While assuring that the gesture would be extended to other parts of the state, she, however, urged the teachers and students of the benefiting schools to make judicious use of the facilities as well as protect them against misuse and vandalism.
In the same vein, the Managing Director of NEPL, Mr. Nicolas Foucart, said the laboratories are designed to promote practical learning, creativity, critical thinking, and innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.
Foucart represented by Mr. Reginald Duke, Lead Community Relations Western Assets, NEPL, noted that the expectation of the management is that the laboratories would help equip students with relevant skills to succeed in a fast-changing world.
He also added that the facilities in the schools reflected the NEPL/Seplat JV shared commitment to quality education and sustainable community development.
“We believe that investing in education is one of the most meaningful ways to shape the future of our young people and our nation”, he stated.
Dr. Paddy Iyamu, a former Commissioner for Education, Edo State, described the STEAM Labs as one of the best investments any investor can make in the life of the Nigerian children.
He urged other corporate organizations in the state to emulate Seplat in fulfilling their Corporate Social Responsibilities.
He said: “Please, let’s celebrate and appreciate the leadership of Seplat energy. Together, you have also helped us in training our teachers. The list is endless. We have other companies that drill oil in the state, but when it comes to corporate social responsibility they fail.
“The NEPL/Seplat JV has always responded positively and responsibly in the environment where you operate. We are grateful. On behalf of my Governor, we thank you.”
On her part, Mrs. Edith Ebomoyi, Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Education, described the Labs commissioning as a milestone in the collective and committed efforts to the future of education in the State.
In their separate remarks, the Principal of Ogbe Secondary School, Mrs. Itohanmwen Augustina and Mrs. Obaretin Osayanmo of Uselu Secondary School, commended the State Government, Seplat Energy and NEPL for the investment and promised to take ownership of the facilities against any act of vandalism.
They also promised to make judicious use of the facilities to achieve the purpose for which they are established.