Over 110 youths graduate from NEPL/Seplat entrepreneurship programme, renovates school in Edo

Over 110 young Nigerians have graduated from the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL)/ Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP) in Edo State.

The programme was geared towards equipping the youths with practical renewable energy skills and start-up support to build sustainable livelihoods, serve their communities and contribute to Nigeria’s clean energy future.

The Joint Venture also commissioned a renovated classroom block and modern learning facilities for the Visually Impaired Unit at the Ihogbe College, Benin City.

Speaking at the ceremony, Samson Ezugworie, Chief Operating Officer, Seplat Energy Plc, described YEP as a strategic investment in people, communities and the nation’s future.

Ezugworie also added that the commissioned renovated classroom block was to expand access to quality education for underserved learners and reinforce its commitment to inclusive community development.

The Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP) graduation, titled “Lighting Up the Nation: Empowering Youths in Renewable Energy Solutions,” featured exhibitions of practical solutions developed by participants during the programme, including solar home systems, mini-grid.

According to Ezugworie, the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme is here to stay. We have sustained it over the years with our Joint Venture partner because we believe that investing in young people is fundamental to nation-building.

“Together, the initiatives demonstrate the NEPL/Seplat JV’s strategic approach to creating long-term value in its host communities through education, enterprise development, youth empowerment, energy access and social inclusion.

“The programme is designed to help young people convert technical training into income-generating enterprises, while also addressing real needs in homes, schools, health centres and small businesses that require reliable, affordable and cleaner energy solutions”, he said.

Ezugworie added that the programme goes beyond skills acquisition by providing graduates with take-off grants to support the launch of their businesses and enable them to begin creating value within their communities.

“Today, we celebrate your achievement, but tomorrow, we want to celebrate your impact. Your contribution should extend beyond personal success to creating opportunities, solving problems and transforming communities,” he added.

Earlier, Chioma Afe, director, External Affairs and Social Performance of Seplat Energy Plc, said the YEP reflects the JV’s commitment to building community resilience by connecting young people with skills that are relevant to the future of work and the evolving energy landscape.

Afe noted that the initiative was conceived to bridge the gap between learning and enterprise, ensuring that training translates into practical outcomes for individuals, families and local economies.

“Across Nigeria, families, schools, healthcare facilities and small businesses are seeking reliable, affordable and cleaner energy. By equipping young people with renewable energy skills, we are helping them create new sources of livelihood while empowering them to become problem-solvers in their communities,” she stated.

She added that YEP formed part of the JV’s broader education and community development ecosystem, which includes the PEARLS Quiz Competition, undergraduate scholarships, the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme (STEP), solar-powered STEAM laboratories and energy access initiatives across host communities.

Afe explained that the projects, which are delivered under the JV’s Diversity and Inclusion Programme, include the renovation of three classrooms, an administrative office and an inverter room, as well as the provision of specialised learning equipment to improve teaching and learning outcomes for visually impaired students.

She stated that the intervention is expected to provide a more supportive learning environment for students with visual impairment, strengthen the capacity of teachers, and improve access to quality education for learners who require specialised support.

Also speaking, Nicolas Foucart, managing director of NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, represented by Olubukonla Oyegbami, reaffirmed NEPL’s commitment to sustaining partnerships that expand opportunities for young people and strengthen community development.

Rita Erewele, who was represented by Gregory Anokwu, received the facility on behalf of the Edo State Secondary Education Board.