Schneider Electric Launches Multimodal Centre in Bonny Island

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

Global energy technology leader Schneider Electric has unveiled a multimodal centre at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny Island, Rivers State, aimed at easing commuting challenges and providing students with convenient access to examination facilities.

The centre underscores Schneider Electric’s commitment to addressing a critical educational need in Nigeria while advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Speaking at the launch, Country President, Schneider Electric West Africa, Ajibola Akindele, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to expanding learning opportunities. “At Schneider Electric, access to education is one of our top priorities because no child should be left behind. What began as a JAMB centre has grown into a multi-testing facility, providing students with convenient access to examination centres and creating meaningful opportunities for the community. We are committed to making a lasting impact,” he said.

The initiative strengthens Schneider Electric’s 25-year legacy of partnership, innovation, and sustainable development in Nigeria. By providing access to essential testing and training facilities, the centre empowers young people in Bonny Island and supports pathways to education, skills development, and employment.

Community Leader, Bonny Island, Se Alabo Abel Adafe Attoni, expressed gratitude on behalf of residents, highlighting how the centre eliminates costly and time-consuming travel to Port Harcourt and reduces associated security risks. “The benefits cannot be quantified. Travelling from Bonny by sea costs around twenty thousand naira, excluding accommodation. For families, this centre has brought peace of mind. We are grateful to Schneider Electric for this initiative and to His Majesty the king for ensuring this community responsibility was fulfilled. This centre sets us above most communities in Rivers State,” he said.

Marketing Manager, Schneider Electric West Africa, Omobolanle Omotayo, spoke on the challenges students face and how the centre helps address them. “Students have multiple challenges, and we have solved one of them by creating the multimodal centre. For every level of education, there is a test, and it is easy for students to hit a roadblock and give up. With this facility, they can write their tests and exams conveniently and progress to other institutions. We aim to inspire, and we hope this centre shows them what is possible,” she explained.

Acting Rector, Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas Bonny, Dr. Akos Noel Ibrahim, described the centre as a catalyst for improving the quality of training at the polytechnic.

“This centre elevates the standard of teaching by helping our students and staff stay current with industry trends. With the internet facilities, we can install study packages and other resources that give our students the leverage to compete globally. Through this centre, we are already receiving partnership requests from examination bodies to further strengthen the polytechnic,” he said.
On energy stability at the facility, Ajibola Akindele added, “The power infrastructure is being provided largely by NLNG, and Schneider Electric has provided a backup system to guarantee consistent electricity supply.”

Schneider Electric continues to demonstrate that true innovation extends beyond products and technologies to co-creating sustainable, community-focused solutions that shape brighter futures for young people.