– Graduates 327 teachers, 15 Chief Inspectors of Education
Oritsegbubemi Omatseyin
Lagos — The NEPL/Seplat Energy Joint Venture, JV, has hosted the 2025 Seplat Education Summit in Benin, Edo State. themed “Transforming the Education Workforce: A Critical Success for Nation Building,” the summit brought together key stakeholders to explore sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s education sector.
A major highlight of the event was the graduation of 327 teachers and 15 chief inspectors of education from the 2024 Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, STEP. The milestone underscores the NEPL/Seplat Energy’s unwavering commitment to upskilling educators and enhancing the quality of education in Edo and Delta States.
Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy, at the event, emphasised the importance of capacity building for teachers and education leaders.
She said: “We recognize that teachers are the cornerstone of a thriving education system. Through initiatives like STEP, we are equipping educators with the necessary tools, skills, and innovative teaching methodologies to foster a more engaging and impactful learning environment.
“Our commitment to teacher empowerment extends beyond training; it is about creating a ripple effect that transforms classrooms. To date, the Seplat JV has trained 1,334 teachers across our host states, integrating STEAM education and technology-driven learning approaches that have directly impacted over 100,000 students annually.”
Emphasising the importance of continuous development of teachers, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, represented by the Director of Basic and Secondary Education, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs. Agatha Ogefere, said that the theme of this year’s summit, ‘Transforming the Education Workforce,’ is timely and critical.
Also speaking at the event, the Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Iyamu, remarked: “This summit is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving meaningful change in our education system. The strength of any education system is determined by the quality, capacity, and dedication of its workforce. Transforming the education workforce is a necessity.
“Today, as we recognize outstanding educators and institutions through this programme, we reaffirm our belief that excellence in education is worth celebrating. To all the teachers, your contributions are invaluable, and your dedication strengthens our collective resolve to build a brighter future through education.”
The Commissioner for Secondary Education, Delta State, Rose Ezewu, represented by the Deputy Director, Secondary Education in the ministry, Mrs. Justina Ishaka, expressed appreciation for the JV contributions.
She said: “This annual event underscores Seplat’s unwavering dedication to educational advancement. The Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP) has played a pivotal role in reshaping the secondary education landscape in Edo and Delta States. It is remarkable to note that over 600 teachers in Delta State have benefited from STEP since its inception in 2020, including 171 teachers in this current cohort. The programme has significantly bridged the knowledge gap in STEM education, leading to improvements in teaching quality and learning outcomes.”
Speaking on the tangible impact of the STEP initiative, Susan Bassey, a representative from the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL), stated: “The success of the STEP programme is evident in the testimonies of past participants who have not only enhanced their teaching skills but also leveraged their training in broader capacities. Our commitment to this initiative remains steadfast because we have seen firsthand the transformative impact it has on grassroots education. We are proud to sustain this partnership and further expand its reach.”
Professor Yinka Omorogbe (SAN), who delivered the keynote address, provided an in-depth analysis of the summit theme, underscoring the urgent need to rethink education workforce policies to drive national development. She highlighted that investing in teachers translates into long-term socioeconomic benefits, emphasising that a well-trained workforce ensures sustainability and progress in education.
Following the keynote address, a panel session featuring seasoned educationists and alumni of the STEP explored the importance of continuous investment in education. The Panelists shared personal experiences on how STEP had elevated their skills, improved their instructional techniques, and positively influenced both their personal and professional lives.
To recognize outstanding contributions, awards were presented to the top 10 teachers, while the top three innovative projects developed during the training received special recognition. These projects exemplify the practical application of the skills gained through STEP, reinforcing its tangible impact on real-world teaching methodologies.
Reflecting on her experience, Lydia Aiganigbee, a teacher from Chinel Universe Academies, Edo State said: “The STEP programme has completely transformed my approach to teaching. The methodologies and tools introduced have enabled me to create a more interactive and stimulating learning environment, significantly enhancing student engagement and performance.”
Ereraka Lucky Ovie, a teacher from Agbor College, Delta State, who was crowned the top teacher of the 2024 STEP cohort, added: “STEP is a game-changer, it has expanded my teaching perspective. Through the training, I have learned how to make learning more participatory and impactful. Now, I am empowered to make my students active participants in the classroom and equip them with skills that are relevant to society.”
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