BY CHIKA KWAMBA
IN a rigorous test of knowledge and intellectual prowess, secondary schools from Edo and Delta States took centre stage at the 2025 PEARLs Quiz Competition, held in Asaba, Delta State.
The annual contest, organised by Seplat Energy Plc under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, was conducted in partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Exploration and Production (NNPCL E&P) through their joint venture (JV) operations.
The grand finale, held at the Marquee Event Centre, brought together top-performing schools from both states in a celebration of academic excellence, innovation, and leadership. The competition, which promotes Exceptional and Respectable Leaders (PEARLs), aims to inspire excellence in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and English among secondary school students.
Emerging as champions, Pioneer Education Centre, Edo State, clinched the first position and received a ₦10 million prize to equip its ICT centre. Notre Dame College, Uzoro, Delta State, came second with ₦5 million, while Eucharistic Heart of Jesus Model College, Benin City, Edo State, took the third position with ₦3 million. Ogini Model College, Ogharefe-Oghara, Delta State, received a consolation prize for participation.
Speaking during the event, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Ms. Orode Uduaghan, Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Community Support Services, and Girl-Child Development, commended the organisers for their consistency and sustained investment in education.
“The Pearl quiz is a shining example of corporate social responsibility that aligns with our developmental vision. For years, this initiative has provided a platform for students to demonstrate intelligence, confidence, and character while promoting a culture of academic excellence,
“Beyond the trophies and prizes, every participant is a winner. You have made your schools, families, and states proud
The scholarships, awards and educational resources you provide continue to enrich our educational landscape and nurture future leaders.
“Gov Oborevwori encouraged the participants and urged the winners to remain focused and committed so as to use the confidence gained to build on their brilliance for greater success in the future” Oborevwori said.
In her remarks, Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs and Social Performance, Seplat Energy, represented by Hadiza Garbati, General Manager, Government Relations, congratulated the finalists, noting that the initiative, introduced in 2012, continues to yield positive results.
Dr. Emmanuel Iyamu, Edo State Commissioner for Education, represented by Mr. Abudukadiri Ikoghode, Director, School Support Services, expressed pride in the students’ performance.
