From left, Dr Ama Ikuru(representing Executive Secretary NCDMB), Edith Lawson ( Deputy Manager, External Relations, NNPC Ltd) Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo (Deputy Gov, Bayelsa State).,Mathew Seiyefa ( Pro-Chancellor) , Osagie Okunbor ( MD, SPDC & Country Chair Shell Companies in Nigeria), Prof Allen Agih ( Vice Chancellor, Niger Delta University) & Elohor Aiboni (MD SNEPCO)

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) and its Joint Venture partners in OML 18 have generously contributed a 2,300-seater ultra-modern digital library to the Niger Delta University (NDU), located in Wilberforce Island, Amassoma, Bayelsa State.

The donation, a collaborative effort between NNPC Ltd, the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo), Total Energies EP Nigeria Ltd, Nigerian Agip Exploration Ltd, and Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria (Deepwater) Ltd, underscores a shared commitment to fostering learning and intellectual growth.

The state-of-the-art library, unveiled on Thursday in Bayelsa State, stands as a testament to innovation and technological advancement in education. Spanning two stories, the complex is outfitted with cutting-edge Information Technology amenities, including 100 computer systems, e-learning and research facilities, interactive smart boards, projectors, camcorders, e-books, e-journals, e-learning portal, and spacious reading halls.

Among its myriad features, the library boasts a Wi-Fi Lounge, print and document hall, video and audio recordings, photography and online education center, e-distant learning hall, Chief Librarian and departmental offices, IT rack room, newspaper archive, stack room for new arrivals, and modern conveniences to cater to the diverse needs of students and researchers.

Moreover, the library complex is equipped with essential infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted access to resources, including a 500KVA power generator, a 500KVA transformer, and a dedicated water borehole fitted with water purification facilities.

Designed to promote ICT education and create a conducive learning environment, the e-library aims to keep students and researchers abreast of global IT practices and advancements. Its comprehensive facilities offer a holistic approach to learning, integrating traditional library resources with digital technologies to facilitate knowledge acquisition and dissemination.

The commissioning and handover ceremony of the project witnessed the presence of notable dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Evwrudjakpor; Pro-Chancellor of the NDU, Matthew Seiyefa; Vice-Chancellor of NDU, Prof. Allen Agih; representative of the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Dr. Ama Ikuru; Deputy Manager, External Relations, NNPC Ltd, Edith Lawson; Managing Director of Shell Petroleum Development Company and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Osagie Okunbor; and Managing Director of SNEPCo, Elohor Aiboni.

The collaborative effort between NNPC Ltd and its partners stands as a shining example of public-private partnership driving educational development and empowerment in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.