On a joyful day in Akwa Ibom State, mothers cradled their infants, children whose births coincided with the historic moment an oil well was spudded in their communities. These “Spud Babies,” as they are fondly called, became the centre of celebration as the NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NEPL) and Sumedha Energy Limited (SEL), gathered families, traditional rulers and health experts for a day of free medical care, gifts, and cash support for each child.
This year, which marks the fourth edition of the initiative, NEPL and Sumedha Energy Limited (SEL) celebrated 66 “Spud Babies” across four local government areas in Akwa Ibom State—Eastern Obolo, Onna, Mkpat Enin, and Ikot Abasi LGAs—providing free healthcare services and cash grants to each child, a gesture that underscored the companies’ ongoing commitment to community welfare in these areas of operation.
Spud Babies are children born on the same day an oil company commences drilling—an event regarded as symbolic and worth celebrating, with a total of 234 babies having benefitted since the programme’s inception.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Reorientation, Mrs. Margaret Edem, the Ministry’s Registrar, Mrs. Uduak Etuk, applauded the initiative, describing it as consistent with Governor Umo Eno’s Arise Agenda, which prioritizes the health and wellbeing of mothers and children. She commended NEPL and SEL for investing in child health and pledged the Ministry’s continued support and collaboration.
The Paramount Ruler of Mkpat Enin, His Royal Majesty Edidem Akpan Akpan Ekpene, and the representative of the Paramount Ruler of Ikot Abasi, His Highness Engr. Celestine Ubiam, praised the companies for the gesture. They appealed for the extension of support to children’s education, describing it as an investment that would help raise responsible and productive citizens, and commended Sterling Oil Group, through its subsidiary Sumedha Energy Limited, for consistently investing in the health and wellbeing of host communities.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Charity Evans and Mrs. Lily Benjamin expressed heartfelt appreciation for the healthcare support and financial assistance.
“I am so happy. The medicines I should have spent money on were given to me free, and I also received financial support. I sincerely thank Sumedha Energy Limited for this kindness,” one of the mothers said.
The Senior Base Manager of Sumedha Energy Limited, Engr. Fabian Ebri, noted that the event symbolizes “the beginning of great things” in the lives of the children born on the day of the company’s well-spudding operations. He explained that the beneficiaries were selected through verified medical birth records within the host communities, ensuring fairness and transparency. “The Babies bring joy to their families, and the company is committed to sustaining that joy. This is the fourth edition of the programme, and so far, 234 babies have benefitted,” he added.
Ms. Atim Asuquo Ulo, Director of the Primary Healthcare Centre, Eastern Obolo, and Ms. Udokan Udom, delivered health talks on family planning, immunization, and exclusive breastfeeding, among others. Medical experts also conducted free diagnoses and administered medications to the children.
The “Spud Babies” celebration brought together families, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and representatives of NEPL and Sumedha Energy Limited, including High Chief Duke Reginald and Mrs. Susan Bassey. The event highlighted the companies’ commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of children born on the day of the company’s oil operations, bringing joy to families and reinforcing a legacy of care, compassion, and community development.
Beyond corporate responsibility, the joint venture of NEPL and SEL embodies a shared vision of nurturing future generations, supporting mothers, and fostering sustainable growth in Akwa Ibom State. Through this initiative, Sumedha Energy Limited demonstrates the mission of bringing smiles with each barrel, empowering communities, and creating lasting positive impact across the communities where it operates.
