Investment in Youth Fuels Community Development
Felix Omo Assun of Benin
At a graduation ceremony in Benin City, Samson Ezugworie, Chief Operating Officer of Seplat Energy Plc, emphasized the significance of the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP), describing it as a vital investment in the future of individuals, communities, and Nigeria as a whole.
The event marked the graduation of 110 young Nigerians who participated in the NNPC Exploration and Production Limited/Seplat Energy Joint Venture (JV) empowerment program. The initiative aims to equip these young people with practical skills in renewable energy, laying the groundwork for sustainable livelihoods that will ultimately contribute to Nigeria’s clean energy future.
Enhancing Educational Facilities for the Visually Impaired
In addition to the YEP graduation, the JV also inaugurated a newly upgraded classroom building, alongside advanced learning facilities for the Visually Impaired Unit at Ihogbe University in Benin City. This demonstrates the JV’s ongoing commitment to inclusive community development by ensuring that underserved learners have access to quality education.
This endeavor, a part of the JV’s Diversity and Inclusion Program, involved the renovation of three classrooms, an office, and an inverter room. It also included the provision of specialized learning equipment designed to enhance teaching and learning outcomes for students with visual impairments.
A Supportive Learning Environment for All
The interventions are expected to foster a more supportive learning atmosphere for visually impaired students while enhancing teachers’ capabilities and improving access to quality education for those needing specialized support.
Showcasing Innovations in Renewable Energy
The YEP graduation event featured the theme “Illuminating the Nation: Empowering Youth with Renewable Energy Solutions.” During the proceedings, participants showcased innovative projects they developed throughout the program, including solar home systems, mini-grid prototypes, solar dryers, biogas digesters, and energy audit tools. Ezugworie stressed that the YEP is structured to assist young people in transforming their technical training into viable income-generating ventures that also meet the pressing energy needs of households, educational institutions, health centers, and small businesses.
Long-Term Commitment to Youth Empowerment
Ezugworie noted that initiatives like the YEP reflect NEPL/Seplat JV’s strategic approach to creating enduring value for host communities. This commitment encompasses various areas, including education, enterprise development, energy access, and social inclusion. As he stated, “The Youth Entrepreneurship Program is here to stay,” highlighting the firm belief that investing in youth is foundational for nation-building.
Supporting Graduates in Their Entrepreneurial Journey
He further explained that the program extends beyond skill acquisition; graduates receive start-up grants to help launch their own businesses, thereby fostering community value creation. Ezugworie encouraged the graduates to view their successes not just as personal achievements but as opportunities to drive change and uplift their communities.
Building Resilience through Renewable Energy Skills
Chioma Afe, Seplat Energy Plc’s Director of External and Social Performance, stated that the YEP aligns with the broader aim of enhancing community resilience by equipping young people with future-ready skills relevant to the evolving energy sector. “Across Nigeria, there is a pressing demand for reliable, affordable, and clean energy,” Afe explained. By training young people in renewable energy technologies, the initiative seeks to create new livelihood opportunities while empowering the participants to become problem solvers within their communities.
Afe highlighted that the YEP is part of the JV’s comprehensive approach to education and community development. This ecosystem includes initiatives such as the PEARLS quiz competition, undergraduate scholarships, Seplat’s Teachers Empowerment Program (STEP), the solar-powered STEAM Institute, and various energy access initiatives focused on host communities.
Mr. Nicolas Foucard, Managing Director of NNPC Exploration and Production Limited, represented by Olubukonla Oyegbami, reiterated NEPL’s dedication to fostering partnerships that broaden opportunities for youth and enhance regional development. This commitment to community-focused initiatives underscores the JV’s mission to drive lasting positive change.
Dr. Rita Elewele, represented by Gregory Anokwu, accepted the facility on behalf of the Edo State Secondary Education Board, further solidifying the collaborative efforts to advance educational access and quality.
