*Urges students to embrace reading culture, purposeful learning
TotalEnergies E&P Nigeria Ltd. has urged students to cultivate a strong reading culture and embrace books that align with their personal and professional goals.
Mr Victor Bandele, Deputy Managing Director (Deepwater Asset) of the company, made the call during TotalEnergies’ 2025 Annual Book Reading and Open Day for secondary school students on Saturday in Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2025 edition has the theme “Paragraphs, Pages, and Chapters: Unlocking the Secrets of Success through Reading”.
Bandele said the programme underscores the transformative power of reading in fostering knowledge, creativity, and lifelong learning.
He noted that TotalEnergies’ commitment goes beyond energy production to empowering communities through education.
“For over 60 years, we have been passionate about lighting up minds and empowering future generations through learning.
“Our dedication to Nigeria’s youth is evident in numerous educational initiatives that have enabled thousands of students to access quality education and achieve recognition for their excellence,” he said.
He said that between 2012 and 2020, more than 30,000 youths benefited from community scholarships, noting that over 39,000 students had received awards under the National Merit Scholarship Scheme since 2003.
Bandele also highlighted the achievements of the Institute of Petroleum and Energy Studies (IPES) at the University of Port Harcourt, which added he had produced over 700 graduates since 2003.
He cited the Empowering the Teachers (ETT) Fellowship Programme, organised in partnership with NNPC Ltd. and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
According to him, over 110 Nigerian lecturers have gained professional development from the programme since 2010.
The deputy managing director added that TotalEnergies continues to invest in educational infrastructure through the construction and renovation of classrooms, libraries, and laboratories across Nigeria.
This year’s reading session featured The Potter’s Wheel by renowned Nigerian author Chukwuemeka Ike, a novel celebrated for its themes of character, discipline, and growth.
He maintained that holding the Book Reading alongside the Open Day allows students to interact with TotalEnergies employees and explore career paths in various fields.
“Whether your dreams lie in engineering, medicine, literature, or leadership, your journey begins with the books you read and the knowledge you embrace,” he added.
Bandele reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting education and nurturing future leaders.
Teachers and students commended TotalEnergies for the initiative, describing it as a valuable platform that promotes literacy, research, and educational development.
Mrs Anuoluwapo Oyeleye, a teacher at Vetland Senior Grammar School, Ifako-Ijaiye, said the programme motivates students to improve their reading and research skills.
She said, “The book reading event motivates students to stay updated and ensures their reading culture is not obsolete. It also helps them learn about TotalEnergies’ efforts in supporting education and youth development.”
Similarly, Mr Ajetomobi Ayoola, a teacher at Abesan Comprehensive Senior College, Jakande, Lagos, commended the initiative.
“The programme creates a platform for both students and teachers to engage in continuous learning. It also provides a chance to better understand the operations of TotalEnergies and its role in advancing education,” he said.
A student of Doregos Private Academy, Ayobo, Lagos, Miss Agada Benice, said participating in the reading competition deepened her understanding of the company’s impact.
“I represented my school in the competition, where I spoke about the importance of TotalEnergies to education and how it has positively influenced students.
“I learnt a lot about the company and why students should cultivate the habit of regular reading,” she said.
Another student, Miss Emmanuella Nnaji of Vetland Senior Grammar School, noted that the programme had a positive effect on both students and teachers.
“The reading session taught us about life objectives and goals. I encourage other students to believe in themselves and work hard toward success,” she added.
NAN reports that 10 schools from across Lagos participated in the event, including Chrisland College, Idimu; Government Senior College, Agege; Unity Senior College and Iju Senior Grammar School.
Others were Vetland Senior Grammar School; Abesan Comprehensive Senior College; Mirale Community Senior High School; Ifako International Secondary School; Doregos Private Academy; and Meiran Government High School.
After a presentation contest on TotalEnergies’ operations, Vetland Senior Grammar School emerged overall winner, followed by Doregos Private Academy and Abesan Comprehensive Senior College, which placed second and third respectively.
