Nigeria’s Corporate Sector Embraces ESG Mandate
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has intensified efforts to equip businesses with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) competencies through specialized training programs, responding to mounting pressure for sustainable business practices globally.
Key Initiatives
1. Training of Trainers (ToT) Workshop
July 8–9, 2025 | Lagos
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20 NECA staff and partners trained under the ILO’s LEADER Programme, a global initiative to advance corporate sustainability.
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Curriculum tailored for Nigerian business realities, covering:
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ESG reporting frameworks (e.g., GRI, NGRC).
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Climate risk mitigation.
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Ethical supply chains.
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2. Step-Down Training for 52 Companies
July 10–11, 2025
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Multinationals and SMEs from diverse sectors engaged in hands-on ESG strategy sessions.
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Case studies from Nigerian sustainability leaders like Dangote, Nestlé, and Access Bank.
Why ESG Matters for Nigeria
Regulatory Pressure: SEC Nigeria mandates ESG disclosures for listed firms by 2026.
Investor Demand: 78% of global investors prioritize ESG-compliant businesses (PwC 2025).
Risk Mitigation: Companies with strong ESG practices report 30% lower operational risks (MSCI).
Quote:
“ESG is no longer optional. NECA will lead Nigeria’s transition to sustainable business models.”
— Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General, NECA
ESG Challenges in Nigeria
Awareness Gap: 65% of SMEs lack ESG knowledge (NBS 2024).
Funding Hurdles: Green financing remains inaccessible to most local firms.
Data Shortages: Inconsistent metrics hinder ESG reporting.
NECA’s 2025 ESG Roadmap
Sector-Specific Guidelines: Custom frameworks for oil & gas, agriculture, and fintech.
Policy Advocacy: Push for tax incentives for ESG-compliant businesses.
Digital Toolkit: Launch an ESG Knowledge Hub for SMEs in Q4 2025.
