The NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL)/Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) has impacted over 57,000 students in Edo and Delta states, and has invested more than ₦100 million in school infrastructure and educational development since its inception in 2012.

Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy Plc, who disclosed this at the 2026 edition of its PEARLs Quiz Competition held in Benin City, stated that

The Guardian reports that this year’s competition attracted 476 secondary schools from Edo and Delta states, culminating in a keenly contested grand finale that celebrated academic excellence, innovation, confidence and character among young people.

At the end of the competition, Notre Dame College, Ozoro, Delta State, emerged overall winner, receiving the championship trophy and a ₦10 million education infrastructure grant, Henson Demonstration School, Benin City, placed second and received ₦5 million, while Lumen Christi College came third, winning ₦3 million.

Student representatives and supervising teachers from the top three schools also received educational support prizes.

Speaking further at the event, Afe said PEARLs has grown into one of the JV’s most impactful education initiatives since its launch in 2012, reaffirming the company’s commitment to improving education outcomes and nurturing future leaders across Edo and Delta states.

“PEARLs is more than a quiz. It builds confidence, discipline, leadership, and problem-solving skills. To date, the programme has impacted over 57,000 students, with more than ₦100 million invested in school infrastructure and educational development,” she said.

Also speaking at the event, Samson Ezugworie, Chief Operating Officer, Seplat Energy Plc, said the JV’s education interventions are designed to address foundational gaps and create stronger pathways for young people to thrive.

He disclosed that PEARLs and other education-focused CSI initiatives, including the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme and STEAM laboratories, the NEPL/Seplat Energy JV continues to expand opportunities for young people and contribute to sustainable development across its host communities.

“Our approach goes beyond conventional educational support. It is about creating opportunities for students, schools and institutions to succeed, while building a stronger and globally competitive education system,” he said.

Nicolas Foucart, Managing Director, NEPL, represented by Olubukonla Oyegbami, commended the partnership and urged participants to focus not only on prizes but on the knowledge, discipline and confidence gained through the competition.

“Every participant is a winner. The real value is in the experience gained and how it is applied in future endeavors,” he said.

Representatives of the Delta and Edo State Governments commended the NEPL/Seplat Energy JV for sustaining investments that continue to strengthen education, inspire excellence and support youth development.

This year’s quiz competition also featured a STEAM Innovation Showcase, where students presented practical solutions to real-world problems.

Cradle High School emerged overall winner, while Ogbe Secondary School and Meridien Royal Academy placed second and third respectively, receiving cash prizes of ₦1 million, ₦500,000 and ₦200,000.
Caption: The NEPL/Seplat JV PEARLs Quiz Final held in Benin, Edo State