Total E x P Nigeria Lim
ited has restated its strong commitment towards the educational development of its host communities in particular and Nigeria in general.
The Deputy Managing Director of the Company, Mr Nicolas Brunet, stated this at the 2014 edition of the firm’s Book Reading/Book Donation event held in Port Harcourt.
Brunet, who was represented by the Executive General Manager, Port Harcourt, said it is the tradition of the company to promote Human Capital Development especially that of youths in its host communities and operational areas stressing that the foundation of every society is the education of its youths.
The Deputy Managing Director said the Book Reading/Book Donation event is part of the company’s campaign to get young Nigerians to cultivate the habit of reading books as a way of life, stressing that reading makes good leaders.
“Reading and writing go hand in hand, and the chances of one of you students, who is dedicated in his or her studies becoming a Nobel Laureate in literature in future is possible,” he said.
The Rivers State Commissioner for Education, Dame Alice Lawrence-Nemi commended the company for its commitment in the education development and urged other corporate organisations in the state to emulate Total.
The commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr Michael West, said the present administration in the state led by Governor Chibuike Amaechi was passionate about education.
According to her, it was in view of the high regard attached to the sector that the administration embarked on massive infrastructural development, scholarship both local and foreign as well as employment of over 13,000 teachers.
The Commissioner advised participating students to be focused and always read their books.
In his own contribution, Chairman of Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Rivers State branch, Mr Obinna Nwodim, expressed excitement at this year’s edition of the event remarking that there was so much improvement and commended the company for its efforts.
Theme of this year’s edition of the event was, “Maintaining the Habit of Reading” and twenty schools participated. Highlight of the event was presentation of books to participants.

Chris Oluoh