The NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL)/Seplat Energy Joint Venture says its PEARLs Quiz Competition has impacted more than 57,000 students across Edo and Delta states since its inception in 2012.

The company disclosed that it has also invested over ₦100 million in educational development and school infrastructure through the initiative.

Speaking at the 2026 edition of the competition in Benin City, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Chioma Afe, said the programme has evolved into one of the company’s flagship education initiatives, aimed at promoting academic excellence and developing future leaders.

According to Afe, this year’s competition attracted 476 secondary schools from Edo and Delta states, with the grand finale showcasing students’ academic ability, innovation, leadership and confidence.

Notre Dame College, Ozoro, Delta State, emerged overall winner, receiving the championship trophy and a ₦10 million education infrastructure grant. Henson Demonstration School, Benin City, finished second and received ₦5 million, while Lumen Christi College secured third place with a ₦3 million grant.

Students and supervising teachers from the top three schools also received educational support awards.

Afe noted that the PEARLs programme extends beyond academic competition by equipping students with leadership, discipline and problem-solving skills.

“PEARLs is more than a quiz. It builds confidence, discipline, leadership and problem-solving skills. To date, the programme has impacted over 57,000 students, with more than ₦100 million invested in school infrastructure and educational development,” she said.

Seplat Energy’s Chief Operating Officer, Samson Ezugworie, said the company’s educational interventions are designed to bridge learning gaps and create opportunities for young people to succeed.

He added that through initiatives such as the PEARLs Quiz, Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme and STEAM laboratories, the NEPL/Seplat Energy Joint Venture continues to promote quality education and sustainable development in its host communities.

Representing NEPL Managing Director, Nicolas Foucart, Olubukonla Oyegbami encouraged participants to value the knowledge and experience gained through the competition, noting that every contestant emerged a winner regardless of the final results.

Officials of the Edo and Delta State governments commended the joint venture for its sustained investment in education and youth development.

The event also featured a STEAM Innovation Showcase, where students presented practical solutions to real-world challenges. Cradle High School emerged overall winner, while Ogbe Secondary School and Meridien Royal Academy finished second and third, receiving cash prizes of ₦1 million, ₦500,000 and ₦200,000 respectively.