NNPC LTD AND FIRST E&P UNVEIL GAME-CHANGING SCHOOL RENOVATION PROJECT TO EMPOWER DISPLACED CHILDREN IN BAUCHI STATE

• 16 Oct, 2024
• News
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In a remarkable development for education in Bauchi State, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) and FIRST Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P) have successfully completed a transformative project that rehabilitated six schools in the region. This initiative, which began in 2022, has significantly improved learning conditions for students in communities severely affected by internal displacement.

Nigeria, grappling with one of the largest internally displaced populations in Africa, faces a pressing challenge in its Northeastern region. As of early 2021, over 2.18 million people were displaced across the country due to various crises. This displacement has had a detrimental effect on local education infrastructure, leaving many schools in disrepair and students without essential learning resources.

The joint venture between NNPC Ltd and FIRST E&P invested over N900 million naira into this impactful project, which focused on both primary and secondary education facilities. The schools that received comprehensive renovations include:

• Government Day Secondary School, Azare
• Government Day Comprehensive Secondary School, Azare
• Ahmad Turaki Primary School, Nassarawa East
• Matsango Senior Secondary School, Azare
• Katsalle Primary and Junior Secondary School, Azare
• Bakoshi Nursery and Primary School, Azare

The renovations addressed critical issues such as infrastructural decay, non-functional toilets, and a lack of learning supplies. The project introduced new roofs, structural repairs, updated classroom furniture, enhanced school laboratories, and installed essential sanitation facilities. Additionally, solar-powered boreholes were installed to provide clean drinking water, addressing vital Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) needs.

Mr. Etomi, Executive Director of Corporate Services at FIRST E&P, expressed the company's commitment to educational advancement: “Education is the bedrock of societal progress. By revitalizing these schools, we are not just upgrading infrastructure; we are restoring hope and dignity for the children of Bauchi State. This project aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goal 4, aiming for inclusive and equitable quality education and is a crucial step towards unlocking the future potential of these communities.”

Bala Wunti, Chief Upstream Investment Officer at NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), highlighted the company's dedication to community development: “This project underscores our commitment to supporting our communities. By investing in education, we are investing in the future of our nation. We hope this renewed infrastructure will inspire both students and teachers, fostering a renewed enthusiasm for learning.”

The impact of the project has been widely praised by local educators. Inuwa Muhammad, Principal of Government Comprehensive Day Secondary School, Azare, noted, “The renovation has brought a significant positive change to the school and the community. The improvements are much appreciated.”

Similarly, Ibrahim Muhammad, Principal of Government Day Secondary School, Azare, commended the initiative: “The timing of this renovation is perfect. It will greatly enhance our school's standards and benefit our students immensely.”

Local contractors were engaged to implement the project, ensuring that the benefits extended beyond education to include economic empowerment. This approach not only ensured high-quality work but also stimulated local economic growth through job creation and skill development.

In sum, this collaborative effort by NNPC Ltd and FIRST E&P has made a substantial difference in the educational landscape of Bauchi State, providing a renewed sense of hope and opportunity for the region’s young learners.