The NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS) and Seplat Energy Joint Venture have rewarded schools and outstanding students with cash and scholarship awards totaling N10.5 million in Imo.
Prizes were awarded at the end of the 2026 edition of the Promoting Exceptional and Responsible Leaders (PEARLs) quiz and STEM competition grand finale in Owerri on Saturday.
The Seplat PEARLs quiz and STEM competition are annual academic events for secondary school students in the company’s operating areas, aimed at promoting excellence and improving the quality of education.
Over 200 schools in Imo participated in the 2026 edition. Mountain Crest High School emerged as the overall winner of the quiz, receiving a project-based grant of N5 million for school development and a trophy. Its three representatives received N100,000 each in scholarships, and their teacher received a laptop.
Owerri City Secondary School placed second, receiving a N3 million project-based grant and a trophy. Its three students received N75,000 each as educational grants, and their teacher received a laptop.
Eziachi Secondary School, Orlu, came in third, awarded a N1 million project-based grant. Its three students received N50,000 each, and their teacher received a laptop.
Christ the King College finished fourth but did not receive a monetary prize; however, their teacher received a laptop in recognition of the school’s participation and efforts.
In the STEM Innovation Project segment, ten schools showcased student-developed projects addressing real-world problems, assessed based on relevance, value addition, technical depth, sustainability, and presentation quality.
PAC College was the overall winner, receiving a N500,000 grant. St Theresa College came second with N250,000, and Urban College secured third place with N100,000 to support project development and scaling.
All other participating students received school bags and exercise books as tokens of appreciation.
Speaking at the event, Seplat Energy’s Director of External Affairs and Social Performance, Chioma Afe, described the day as a “celebration of intellect, discipline, perseverance, confidence, curiosity, and the promise of youth.”
“The PEARLs Quiz is our flagship educational program designed to encourage discipline, rigor, academic excellence, and sharpen the minds of secondary school students in our operating states. Seplat Energy and our JV partner, NNPC Limited, remain committed to powering lives, empowering minds, and ensuring no talent is overlooked,” she said.
Olanrewaju Igandan, Acting Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NUIMS, represented by Loveday Minanengiyeofori, Lead Community Relations, NUIMS, emphasized the organizations’ dedication to education and intellectual growth. He advised students to look beyond material rewards and embrace the learning, growth, and peer connections the competition offers. He noted that the friendships and knowledge gained would benefit them in future endeavors.
Imo Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma, represented by the Commissioner for Petroleum Resources, Mr. Emeka Mgbudem, commended the joint venture and pledged continued support for programs that empower students and foster innovation.
