BY MONDAY OISE
BENIN CITY — In a landmark move to revolutionise science and technology education in Edo State, the NEPL/Seplat Energy Joint Venture has commissioned three new state-of-the-art Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) laboratories.
The facilities were officially handed over on Thursday, 26 June 2025, to the Edo State Ministry of Education, strengthening efforts to position Edo as a centre of educational excellence in Nigeria.
The new STEAM labs, located at Niger College, Army Day Secondary School, and Oba Akenzua Secondary School in Benin City, bring to six the total number of STEAM laboratories established by the JV in the city. Earlier, labs were launched at Ihogbe College, New Era College, and Edo Boys High School, reflecting a comprehensive investment in secondary school education across Edo State’s urban centres.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Chioma Afe, emphasised that the new laboratories will address gaps in practical education and stimulate interest in technology and science-based careers among young learners.
“These STEAM Laboratories are designed to foster curiosity, develop critical thinking, and encourage innovation among our students,” she stated.
“We are confident that this investment will significantly contribute to preparing Edo youths for the fast-evolving global economy.”
Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by Dr Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, Commissioner for Education, described the initiative as timely and transformative.
He hailed Seplat and NEPL for their rapid project delivery and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting education, noting that the state is implementing education reforms to improve learning outcomes at all levels.
Deputy Manager of Sustainability at NEPL, Paul Omenogor, urged students and community members to safeguard the facilities, adding that proper maintenance will encourage the JV to expand similar interventions to other parts of the state.
Commissioner for Mining, Oil and Gas, Andrew Ijegbai, also praised the initiative, stressing that it aligns with the state’s goal of diversifying its economy by investing in human capital development.
Principals of the beneficiary schools, Godwin Idemudia (Niger College), Osemwenkhae Ezeilekhae (Army Day Secondary School), and Ipogah Michael (Oba Akenzua Secondary School) — expressed gratitude, describing the labs as “game-changers” that will significantly enhance teaching and learning.
They pledged to ensure the labs are fully utilised and maintained.
Each lab is equipped with modern educational resources, including computer systems, internet connectivity, multimedia teaching aids, laboratory equipment for practical science experiments, and arts supplies — all tailored to encourage interdisciplinary learning.
This STEAM initiative reflects Seplat Energy’s broader commitment to social responsibility and sustainable community development, with previous investments covering education, healthcare, and economic empowerment across Edo and Delta states.
The well-attended ceremony brought together representatives from the Edo State Government, school administrators, community leaders, and stakeholders from the education and oil and gas sectors.
