The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) and FIRST Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P) Joint Venture (‘the JV’) have announced the completion of an education infrastructure project which saw the comprehensive rehabilitation of 6 schools in Bauchi State.

According to the firms, with a project implementation cost of over N900 million naira, the 4 secondary schools and 2 primary schools that were rehabilitated through this exercise include Government Day Secondary School, Azare, Bauchi; Government Day Comprehensive Secondary School, Azare, Bauchi; Ahmad Turaki Primary School Nasarawa East, Bauchi; Matsango Senior Secondary School, Azare; Katsalle Primary and Junior Secondary School, Azare and Bakoshi Nursery and Primary School, Azare.

Commenting on the announcement, Executive Director, Corporate Services of FIRST E&P, Mr. Etomi, said: “For us as a company, educational advancement is one of our pillars for social development. We believe that education is the foundation of societal progress, and by revitalising these schools, we have helped in empowering the children with the tools they need to rebuild their lives. However, this initiative goes beyond mere construction; it’s about restoring hope and dignity for the children of Bauchi State.”

Chief Upstream Investment Officer, NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Bala Wunti, added: “As a responsible corporate citizen, NNPC Limited is committed to supporting the development of our communities. This education infrastructure project is a testament of our dedication to providing quality education and essential amenities to those who have been affected by the insurgency.

We believe that investing in education is investing in the future of our nation.”

Commenting on the impact of the initiative, Principal, Government Comprehensive Day Secondary School, Azare, Inuwa Muhammad said, “As the Principal of the School, I am very delighted to have this renovation during my tenure because this is a great development to the school and the entire community at large.

The company has done so much. Thankfully, the renovation took place at the right time. It will greatly help the school and its standard.”