The Bayelsa State government is seeking to enhance its partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited (SNEPCo) to further advance community development projects.
Governor Duoye Diri made this appeal following the inauguration of a multi-billion naira learning center and digital library on Thursday at the Niger Delta University, Amassoma, Bayelsa State. The facility, donated by the NNPC/Shell Joint Venture and co-funded by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), aims to revolutionize e-learning and technology-driven teaching and research at the university.
Stakeholders from across the Niger Delta region celebrated the inauguration of the project, expressing optimism that it would provide students, lecturers, and researchers with the resources and connectivity necessary to meet global ICT standards. Governor Diri, represented by Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, emphasized the Bayelsa State Government’s readiness to collaborate with NNPC/SNEPCo on various developmental initiatives.
Osagie Okunbor, Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC) and Country Chair of Shell Companies in Nigeria, commended the collaborative efforts that led to the realization of the “landmark project.”
Elohor Aiboni, Managing Director of SNEPCo, described the project as “a powerful symbol of what can be achieved when we unite for a common goal – empowering our people.”
Omatsola Egbe, Executive Secretary of NCDMB, highlighted the project’s significance in producing quality graduates for the Nigerian oil and gas industry and promoting Nigerian content development.
Bala Wunti, Chief Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), praised the partnership behind the project, emphasizing NNPC’s commitment to community development.
Professor Allen Agih, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, expressed gratitude to NNPC, SNEPCo, and the co-venture partners for providing an “iconic edifice” that would enhance teaching and learning at the institution.
The three-story structure features a fully equipped digital library and a collaborative learning center. Local contractors and individuals from the Niger Delta University contributed to the project’s completion through onsite training in complex engineering works.
The social investment initiatives of NNPC, SNEPCo, and co-venture partners have positively impacted various areas, including supporting displaced Nigerians, improving cancer treatment, and assisting students in pursuing their educational aspirations.
