The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC) and FIRST Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Limited (FIRST E&P) have launched a groundbreaking multi-year grant programme aimed at empowering non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that are making significant social impacts across Nigeria. Dubbed Impact FIRST: Heritage, this initiative marks a shift from annual funding to a more sustainable model that promises long-term support for established NGOs.

The inaugural grant presentation took place in Ikoyi, Lagos, where representatives from NNPC, FIRST E&P, beneficiary organisations, and development stakeholders gathered to celebrate the launch of this innovative programme. The new initiative builds on the success of the Impact FIRST programme, which was initiated in 2024 and has since supported 15 organisations, impacting over 20,000 beneficiaries nationwide.

Unlike its predecessor, which provided one-off grants to a broader range of organisations, Impact FIRST: Heritage focuses specifically on NGOs that have demonstrated proven effectiveness and strong governance. This new model aims to bolster the capacity of these organisations, allowing them to expand their successful interventions and achieve greater social impact over time.

Five organisations were selected as the first beneficiaries of this grant following a thorough assessment process. The recipients include:

• The IREDE Foundation, which assists child amputees with prosthetic limbs and support services.
• Asido Foundation, dedicated to the rehabilitation of individuals with severe mental health conditions.
• Cerebral Palsy Centre, providing long-term care for those living with cerebral palsy.
• Health and Development Support Programme, known for its eye-care interventions and surgeries for underserved communities.
• Health Emergency Initiative (HEI), which enhances access to emergency healthcare and develops first-responder capacities.

Emmanuel Etomi, Executive Director of Corporate Services at FIRST E&P, emphasized that the initiative represents a significant evolution in the Joint Venture’s social investment strategy. He stated that it would enable successful organisations to scale their operations and create greater value for vulnerable communities.

Olanrewaju Igandan, Chief Upstream Investment Officer at NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), echoed these sentiments during the event. Represented by Usman Mohammed-Bello, Advisor for Community Relations, he highlighted that the transition from annual corporate giving to multi-year funding signifies a more strategic approach to social investment in Nigeria.

Pascal Achunine, Executive Director of HEI, expressed gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries, describing the grant as a crucial endorsement of their work in the social sector. He noted that this long-term support would enable them to deepen their impact and reach more individuals in need.

Through the Impact FIRST: Heritage initiative, NNPC and FIRST E&P aim to enhance proven interventions and improve access to essential services in healthcare, education, economic empowerment, and community development across Nigeria.