The recent donation by the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited and Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) aimed at enhancing educational infrastructure within host communities in Delta State has garnered praise from the local monarchy. His Majesty, King Obukohwo Monday Arthur Whiskey, the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, commended the initiative, which provided vital educational materials and infrastructure to seven primary schools. The items donated included lawnmowers, desks, teacher’s chairs, and an assortment of educational supplies such as textbooks and exercise books. The presentation ceremony took place at the Onyeburu Primary School in Jesse, Ethiope West Local Government Area, with participation from community leaders, students, and educators, underscoring the event’s significance in fostering educational development.
King Whiskey expressed immense gratitude for the contributions made by Seplat Energy and its partners, highlighting the initiative as exemplary and encouraging other organizations to follow suit. He emphasized the importance of education, referring to it as “the light,” and noted that the donations were a testament to Seplat’s commitment to improving the lives of his people, particularly in remote communities that might otherwise be overlooked. His remarks not only acknowledged the immediate benefits of the donations but also recognized the long-term impact this support could have on the community’s educational landscape.
The Community Liaison Officer of NEPL, Mrs. Faith Otitinor, reaffirmed the JV’s dedication to empowering local communities through educational initiatives. She articulated the organization’s goal of equipping the youth with essential skills that enable them to participate competitively in a global context, thereby improving their livelihoods and breaking the cycles of poverty prevalent in their areas. Otitinor’s comments highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with local stakeholders in creating sustainable change and fostering a brighter future for the communities served by the JV.
The event also featured a representative from Seplat Energy, Stanley Opara, who shared the vision of the JV’s Corporate Education Initiative. The Managing Director, Ayodele Olatunde, through Opara, expressed optimism that the donated resources would positively influence the learning environment, enabling students to thrive academically and holistically. He reiterated that education plays a fundamental role in shaping prosperous communities. The initiative’s theme, “Igniting Potential, Inspiring Excellence: Advancing Education for a Brighter Tomorrow,” encapsulates the commitment to not only provide materials but also to inspire a lifelong passion for learning.
During the ceremony, Comrade Iwonisa Freeborn, headmaster of Onyeburu Primary School, commended the donations, emphasizing their positive impact on both students and parents. He pointed out how the newly provided equipment, particularly the lawnmowers and educational materials, would allow students to concentrate better on their studies, relieving financial burdens from families struggling to afford such necessities. This sentiment reflects the community’s broader appreciation of the support, showcasing the donations as a catalyst for improved educational experiences.
The event also included emotional responses from students, particularly from Primary Five pupil Felix Oghenekevwe, who expressed joy and gratitude on behalf of his classmates. His acknowledgment of the gifts served as a reminder of the direct beneficiaries of the initiative and emphasized the importance of continued support for education within these vulnerable communities. Overall, the collaboration between NNPC, Seplat Energy, and local communities highlights a significant commitment to educational development as a vehicle for building sustainable futures.
