The NNPC Foundation Ltd. has called on Nigerian youth to take the lead in addressing the energy deficit through innovation, creativity, and the application of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director of NNPC Foundation Ltd., made the appeal on Tuesday in Abuja at the “Battle of the Energy Titans” Awards Ceremony and the official launch of the “Energy on Wheels Project for Schools.”
The event was organized by the NNPC Foundation in collaboration with the Oloibiri Oil and Gas Entrepreneurs Development (OLOGED), a Nigerian nonprofit promoting energy and environmental education for schools and communities.
Arukwe described the project as a strategic initiative to enhance energy awareness and education across schools and communities nationwide.
She emphasized that the project aims to engage stakeholders at all levels and encourage Nigerians to actively participate in addressing the country’s energy challenges.
The initiative aligns with NNPC’s goal of making energy available, affordable, and accessible for all Nigerians.
Arukwe also highlighted that the project promotes the protection of energy infrastructure by discouraging vandalism and activities harmful to the country’s energy future.
“We want Nigerians to see themselves as partners in the energy sector. Instead of working against energy development, they should collaborate to make energy more affordable and accessible,” she said.
“The Energy on Wheels project is not just for NNPC; it’s for all Nigerians because it concerns our collective energy future and sustainability,” she added.
Arukwe stressed that energy poverty remains a global challenge and urged young Nigerians to lead the ongoing energy transition.
“The world is moving quickly. Energy poverty is real and urgent.
“The power that lights our homes, fuels our industries, and drives innovation must evolve.
“The energy transition is here, and Nigeria’s youth must lead the way,” she said.
She also noted that the Foundation is investing in education aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to create opportunities for young people.
“You are among the few given this opportunity, and it comes with responsibility. Use it to innovate, create, and lead your peers,” she urged.
Arukwe highlighted that since its inception in 2023, the NNPC Foundation has focused on four key areas: education, health, environment, and energy access.
She mentioned that its education programs have trained over 500 Nigerian youths for employment and entrepreneurship in science and creative industries.
The Foundation has also supported young creatives through initiatives like the African Film Finance Forum (AFFF), helping them pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
“Through programs such as the STEM Book Project, NYSC Empowerment, and Climate-Smart Agriculture training, we are equipping thousands of Nigerians with skills to innovate, support the economy, and protect the environment,” she said.
Arukwe announced that NNPC Ltd. plans to resume its annual STEM Competition.
She also received the Energy Champion Award from OLOGED in recognition of her leadership in advancing energy sustainability and addressing energy poverty.
