Global energy management and automation company Schneider Electric SE has unveiled a multimodal examination and testing center at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas in Bonny Island, Rivers State, aimed at alleviating long-standing challenges faced by students in the Rivers community.
The facility, which provides access to multiple testing and examination platforms, addresses a critical infrastructure deficit in Nigeria's education system, where students in remote areas often travel long distances at high cost to sit for mandatory examinations. The initiative is in line with Schneider Electric's sustainability strategy and its support for the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly quality education and decent work and economic growth.
Speaking at the launch, Schneider Electric’s Country President for West Africa, Ajibola Akindele, said the project reflects the company’s belief that access to education is fundamental to long-term economic growth. “No child should be left behind,” Akindele said. “As a global energy technology leader bringing efficiency and sustainability to industries, businesses and homes, we wanted to bring that same spirit to Bonny Island. What started as a JAMB center has evolved into a multi-testing facility that creates meaningful opportunities for students and the wider community.”
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The center builds on Schneider Electric's over 25-year presence in Nigeria, where the company has combined commercial operations with partnerships focused on capacity building, innovation and sustainable development. By offering reliable testing and digital infrastructure, the Bonny Island facility is expected to improve access to education, skills development and ultimately employment for young people in the region.
For residents, the impact is both financial and social. Alabo Abel Adafe Atoni, a community leader in Bonny Island, said students previously had to travel by boat to Port Harcourt to sit for examinations, often at significant expense and personal risk. “Travelling by sea from Bonny costs about ₦20,000 excluding accommodation,” said Atoni. “For families, this center has brought peace of mind. The benefits cannot be quantified, and it puts our community above most others in Rivers State.”
Schneider Electric officials said the project was designed with an understanding of the widespread barriers students face. Omobolanle Omotayo, marketing manager at Schneider Electric West Africa, said exam logistics could be a decisive hurdle. “Students must be tested at every level of education and it is easy for them to face setbacks and give up,” he said. “With this centre, they can easily take their exams and continue their educational journey. We hope it will inspire them to see what is possible.”
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The management of the polytechnic sees the center as a strategic upgrade of its academic capabilities. Acting Rector of the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny, Dr. Akos Noel Ibrahim, said the facility will help staff and students stay abreast of global industry standards. He said the internet-enabled infrastructure is already attracting the interest of examination bodies seeking partnerships.
Energy reliability, which is an ongoing challenge in Nigeria, has also been addressed. Akindele said the centre's primary power supply is supported by Nigeria LNG Limited, with Schneider Electric providing a backup system to ensure uninterrupted power.
With the Bonny Island project, Schneider Electric is establishing community-focused infrastructure as a core element of innovation, extending its impact beyond products to solutions that support inclusive growth and long-term development.
