The NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL)/Seplat EnergyJoint Venture has graduated 623 teachers and education inspectors from the 2026 Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP), reinforcing their commitment to strengthening teacher capacity across Edo and Delta States.
The graduation ceremony was held at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City.

Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs and Social Performance at Seplat Energy, urged the teachers to carry their renewed skills and confidence into their classrooms. “Teach, inspire and transform is not a slogan—it is a responsibility,” she said.

Representing NEPL’s Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart, Mr. Oluwaseyi Orimoloye described STEP as “a partnership delivering meaningful social impact,” adding that the programme equips teachers with critical thinking, leadership skills, and technology-enabled learning tools.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholor, represented by Finance Commissioner Engr. Emmanuel Okoebor, confirmed the programme’s alignment with the state’s education agenda.

The Honourable 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 you have learnt, because the future of the nation depends on it.”

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

A highlight of the event was the Teacher Innovation Contest, featuring market‑ready ideas developed during STEP. Winners included:

Stephen Egbeburu – Eco “Fueless” Generator
Matthew Nwokoye – Learning Solutions
Faith Igbayo – Live FaceFoods
Launched in 2020, STEP has now trained 1,957 educators, combining STEAM-focused pedagogy, digital literacy, leadership development, and mentorship to improve instructional quality across host communities.