By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
The NEPL/Seplat Energy Joint Venture has taken a significant step in enhancing education in its host communities by inaugurating three state-of-the-art STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) laboratories in Benin City, Edo State.
These new facilities were handed over to the Edo State Ministry of Education on June 26, 2025, and are located at Niger College, Army Day Secondary School, and Oba Akenzua Secondary School.
This initiative complements the three existing STEAM labs previously established by the Joint Venture at Ihogbe College, New Era College, and Edo Boys High School, all in Benin City.
Chioma Afe, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs & Social Performance, expressed her gratitude to the Edo State Governor and government for their support, saying, “We are excited to partner with the Edo State Ministry of Education to deliver quality education. These STEAM labs are designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation among students, equipping them for the demands of the 21st century.”
The STEAM approach emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to connect different subjects and fuel curiosity and creativity.
Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, praised Seplat Energy and NEPL for their investment in the future of Edo’s youth, saying, “Our goal is to ensure every Edo child has access to quality education, and these labs are a step toward that vision.”
NEPL’s Deputy Manager of Sustainability, Paul Omenogor, urged students, staff, and the community to maximize the use of the laboratories and safeguard the equipment. The principals of the beneficiary schools expressed their gratitude, pledging to ensure the facilities are well-maintained and effectively utilized.
The STEAM Labs are equipped with modern educational tools, including computers, internet access, and specialized learning materials, aiming to revolutionize the teaching of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics at the secondary level.
