The Seplat Energy Joint Ventures/
NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) has reinstated it’s commitments to boosting education in host Edo and Delta state.
This is as the venture graduated 623 teachers and education inspectors at the 2026 edition of the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) held in Benin City, Edo State.
Speaking at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub , Director External Affairs and Social Performance at Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe urged the teachers to carry their renewed skills and confidence into their classrooms.
She maintained that the “teach, inspire and transform” theme is not a mere slogan, but a responsibility.
Also, speaking, Mr. Oluwaseyi Orimoloye, who represented NEPL’s Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart,
described STEP as “a partnership delivering meaningful social impact,” adding that the programme equips teachers with critical thinking, leadership skills, and technology-enabled learning tools.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholor , who was represented by Finance Commissioner , Engr. Emmanuel Okoebor, confirmed the programme’s alignment with the state’s education agenda.
The Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, represented by Mrs. Caroline Ikem, emphasized the Federal Government’s focus on teacher quality and urged graduates to “share what you have learnt, because the future of the nation depends on it.”
British Council Country Director, Donna McGowan, represented by Chikodi Onyemerela, highlighted the importance of continuous professional development, calling for more emphasis on digital skills and modern pedagogy.
Delta State’s Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, and Edo State’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, also commended the JV partners and encouraged teachers to cascade their knowledge within their schools.
The highlight of the occasion was the Teacher Innovation Contest, featuring market‑ready ideas developed during STEP.
Winners included: Stephen Egbeburu – Eco “Fueless” Generator; Matthew Nwokoye – Learning Solutions; Faith Igbayo – Live FaceFoods.
The program launched in 2020, STEP has trained 1,957 educators, combining STEAM-focused pedagogy, digital literacy, leadership development, and mentorship to improve instructional quality across host communities.
