By Chinonso Alozie

Owerri – Seplat Energy PLC, has successfully concluded the maiden edition of the Seplat PEARLs Quiz competition in Imo State.

This event which took place in Imo, featured a total of 71 secondary schools across the State, to foster academic excellence and intellectual growth.

According to a statement by Seplat, “A total of 71 secondary schools across Imo State participated, culminating in a thrilling grand finale on November 15, 2024, in Owerri. Concorde Model Secondary School, Owerri, emerged as champions with 54 points, narrowly defeating Mountain Crest Secondary School, New Owerri, which scored 51 points. In third place, Nnuola International Secondary School, Owerri West, earned 60 points to triumph over Community Secondary School, Mbieri, which finished with 42 points.

The winners were richly rewarded for their exceptional performances. Concorde Model Secondary School received ₦5 million for a school project, while each of its three representatives was awarded ₦100,000. Mountain Crest Secondary School earned ₦3 million for a school project, with its representatives receiving ₦75,000 each, and Nnuola International Secondary School received ₦1 million, with ₦50,000 for each representative.”

It added: “The quiz prizes, the competition celebrated outstanding science and art-based projects from participating schools, recognizing innovation and creativity. These projects showcased the students’ ingenuity and commitment to addressing real-world challenges, earning them special commendation and prizes for further development.”

Ibi-Ada Itotoi, Managing Director of Eastern Asset, Seplat Energy, represented by Emmanuel Otokhine, Base Manager, Eastern Asset, underscored Seplat Energy’s dedication to education. “The PEARLs Quiz programme is more than a competition; it is a beacon of hope and opportunity. At Seplat Energy, we firmly believe that investing in education is investing in the future of our nation. Through this initiative, we aim to nurture critical thinking and academic excellence among Nigeria’s youth,” she said.

Prof. Johncliff Nwadike, Commissioner for Education, Imo State, represented by Chinyere Ibe Esq., Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Imo State, expressed profound gratitude to Seplat Energy for their impactful initiative. “Imo State is happy and appreciative of what you have done. This competition has brought an unprecedented opportunity for many students, particularly those from schools outside the municipality. We urge Seplat to continue this partnership because education is a universal right, and initiatives like this make it accessible to all.”

The Commissioner for Niger Delta Affairs & Intelligence, Imo State, Prince Dr. Henry Okafor, while commending the JV for its transformative corporate social responsibility efforts, also said: “Seplat has been exemplary, not only in the hydrocarbon sector but also in healthcare, education, and empowerment. Today’s event further solidifies their commitment to host communities in Imo State. We challenge other companies to emulate Seplat’s dedication to community development.”

The Commissioner for Petroleum and Gas Development, Imo State, Barrister Emeka Mgbudem, highlighted the broader significance of the quiz competition. “Quizzes are not just about knowledge; they foster growth, understanding, and healthy competition. It is heartwarming to see that out of the 12 finalists, eight were girls. This is a testament to the state’s efforts to promote girl-child education. We thank Seplat Energy and NNPC for their partnership, which transcends economic benefits and enriches our communities,” he said.