NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL)/Seplat Energy Joint Venture has expressed commitment to strengthening teacher capacity across Edo and Delta states.

Director, External Affairs and Social Performance at Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, made this known in Benin at the graduation ceremony of 623 teachers and education inspectors from the 2026 Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP).

Afe, who urged the teachers to carry their renewed skills and confidence into their classrooms, said: “Teach, inspire and transform is not a slogan, it is a responsibility.”

In his speech, NEPL’s Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart, described STEP as “a partnership delivering meaningful social impact.”
Foucart, who was represented by Oluwaseyi Orimoloye, stressed that the programme equips teachers with critical thinking, leadership skills, and technology-enabled learning tools.

On his part, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, represented by the Finance Commissioner, Emmanuel Okoebor, confirmed the programme’s alignment with the state’s education agenda.

Also speaking, Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, represented by Mrs Caroline Ikem, emphasised the Federal Government’s focus on teacher quality and urged graduates to share what they have learnt, saying that the future of the nation depends on it.

British Council Country Director, Donna McGowan, represented by Chikodi Onyemerela, who highlighted the importance of continuous professional development, called 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.