NECA DG calls for stronger ESG Commitment as NECA and ILO launch Nigeria’s first national ESG benchmark report in Lagos
The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, speaking at the launch of the ESG State of Play Report in Lagos on Tuesday, urged Nigerian businesses to strengthen their commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance standards as a key driver of sustainability and competitiveness.
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The report, jointly developed by NECA and the International Labour Organization (ILO), represents the first comprehensive national benchmark on ESG awareness, adoption, and readiness among Nigerian employers.
The study is expected to serve as a reference for policymakers, investors, development partners, and corporate decision-makers.
Addressing a gathering of government officials, regulators, and private-sector leaders, Mr. Oyerinde said the findings would support more robust dialogue between industry and government, accelerating responsible business practices across Nigeria’s economy.
“ESG has evolved beyond voluntary action to a strategic requirement for competitiveness,” Mr. Oyerinde said. “Companies that adopt ESG principles early will be better positioned to meet regulatory developments, access global markets, and attract investment.”
The launch brought together high-level representatives from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, National Council on Climate Change, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Lagos State agencies, and leading companies including Dangote Industries, Access Bank, British American Tobacco Nigeria, and Nestlé Nigeria.
Mr. Oyerinde highlighted the ILO’s LEADER Programme (Leading Employers in Action for Social and Environmental Responsibility) and reiterated NECA’s commitment to providing technical guidance, policy engagement, and capacity-building support for employers, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises.
He added that the report would catalyse structured policy conversations, improve regulatory alignment, and foster collaborative action to ensure ESG adoption becomes a core business practice in Nigeria.
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“Responsible enterprise is no longer optional; it is central to sustainable growth and inclusive development,” Mr. Oyerinde said, concluding that integrating ESG principles will position the private sector for a more climate-conscious and globally competitive future.
