The NEPL/Seplat Energy JV on Friday hosted the 2025 Seplat Education Summit, which brought together key stakeholders to explore sustainable solutions for Nigeria’s education sector.

The summit, with the theme “Transforming the Education Workforce: A Critical Success for Nation Building,” was a major highlight of the graduation of 327 teachers and 15 Chief Inspectors of Education from the 2024 Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP).

In her address, Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, stressed the importance of capacity building for teachers and education leaders.

He said, “We recognise that teachers are the cornerstone of a thriving education system. Through initiatives like STEP, we are equipping educators with the necessary tools, skills, and innovative teaching methodologies to foster a more engaging and impactful learning environment.

“Our commitment to teacher empowerment extends beyond training; it is about creating a ripple effect that transforms classrooms. To date, the Seplat JV has trained 1,334 teachers across our host states, integrating STEAM education and technology-driven learning approaches that have directly impacted over 100,000 students annually.”

Stressing the importance of continuous development of teachers, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, represented by the Director of Basic and Secondary Education, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Agatha Ogefere, stated, “The theme of this year’s summit, ‘Transforming the Education Workforce,’ is timely and critical.”

Ogefere noted that teachers are the foundation of any education system, stressing that their continuous development is essential for national progress.

“The STEP programme has demonstrated its impact by equipping educators with modern teaching techniques that align with global best practices. I commend Seplat JV for its visionary leadership in education reform and congratulate the latest cohort of trained teachers who are now better equipped to implement Nigeria’s evolving curriculum,” Ogefere said.

Speaking on the tangible impact of the STEP initiative, a representative from the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), Susan Bassey, added that the success of the STEP program is evident in the testimonies of past participants who have not only enhanced their teaching skills but also leveraged their training in broader capacities.

On her part, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe (SAN), who delivered the keynote address, highlighted that investing in teachers translates into long-term socioeconomic benefits, emphasizing that a well-trained workforce ensures sustainability and progress in education.

Also speaking at the event, Edo State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, said the summit is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change in the education system.

“The strength of any education system is determined by the quality, capacity, and dedication of its workforce. Transforming the education workforce is a necessity. Today, as we recognize outstanding educators and institutions through this program, we reaffirm our belief that excellence in education is worth celebrating.

“To all the teachers, your contributions are invaluable, and your dedication strengthens our collective resolve to build a brighter future through education,” he said.

The Delta State Commissioner for Secondary Education, Rose Ezewu, represented by the Deputy Director of Secondary Education in the ministry, Mrs. Justina Ishaka, expressed appreciation for the JV’s contributions to the educational development of the state.

“This annual event underscores Seplat’s unwavering dedication to educational advancement. The Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) has played a pivotal role in reshaping the secondary education landscape in Edo and Delta States.

“It is remarkable to note that over 600 teachers in Delta State have benefited from STEP since its inception in 2020, including 171 teachers in this current cohort. The program has significantly bridged the knowledge gap in STEM education, leading to improvements in teaching quality and learning outcomes,” Ishaka said.