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By Paul Williams
International gas company, NLNG, has commissioned another set of upgraded learning facilities in Rivers State, making it the 8th such achievement in its ongoing efforts to enhance educational infrastructure in the Niger Delta region.
The commissioning, which was for educational facilities at Community Secondary School, Abarikpo and Community Secondary School, Abalamabie in Bonny, Rivers State, was in collaboration with the state Ministry of Education.
A release by NLNG’s Manager, Corporate Communications & Public Affair, Anne-Marie Palmer-Ikuku, on August 14, 2025, in Port Harcourt, said the new set of schools is part of the second phase of NLNG’s school renovation initiative in its host communities in Rivers State, aimed at attaining the company’s “broader commitment to education and community development.”
The renovations at Community Secondary School, Abalamabie, Bonny Island, cover UBE Blocks 1 and 2, the gatehouse, and the assembly/multi-purpose hall.
The release said, “Further improvements include an overhead water tank and gantry, upgraded water reticulation systems, and the refurbishment of the Home Economics and Science laboratories. Renovations also covered the Senior Secondary and ICT/Administrative blocks, transforming the school into a modern, well-equipped centre for learning.”
The upgrades at Community Secondary School, Abarikpo however include the construction of new science laboratories for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/Agricultural Science; perimeter fencing and entrance gates; a gatehouse with toilets; an overhead water tank gantry; water reticulation systems; new classroom facilities; a dedicated block of toilets; electrical tie-ins; solar power installation; and a new borehole.
These interventions, according to the Ministry of Education, will significantly improve both safety and functionality, creating a conducive learning environment for students and staff.
Managing Director of NLNG, Philip Mshelbila, represented at the commissioning ceremony by the General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, described the handover as a significant milestone in the company’s deepening relationship with its host communities.
He emphasised that the commissioning reflected NLNG’s strong conviction that access to quality education is not a privilege but a fundamental right that corporations must actively uphold and promote.
Mshelbila stressed the transformative power of education, noting that it shapes lives and determines the destiny of communities and nations. This he noted, underpins NLNG’s continued investment in initiatives that promote quality education, especially within its host communities.
“We believe that when we invest in education, we are planting seeds that grow into innovation, leadership, and resilience. We are giving our youth the tools to thrive in a complex world, and in doing so, we strengthen the very fabric of our society,” he said.
Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Education, Dr. Azibaolanari Uzoma-Nwogu, represented by the Director of Secondary Education, Alua Adiela, applauded NLNG for demonstrating an exemplary model of corporate citizenship.
She commended NLNG’s contributions to the advancement of education, stating that it remains the most powerful tool we can use to change our world.
She said that NLNG has continued to demonstrate the power of true partnership in delivering value that uplifts communities.
She described NLNG’s investment in education as guided, deliberate, and deeply rooted in long-term development goals, adding that “The upgrade of the critical facilities in these schools is impressive.”
NLNG said it remains steadfast in its mission to create enduring value beyond its core business operations, reaffirming its commitment to shaping the future through intentional investments in learning environments that promote growth, equity, and excellence.
