NECA and ILO Launch Landmark ESG “State of Play” Report in Nigeria, Strengthening the Pathway for Responsible Business Conduct

The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, has called for stronger private-sector commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards as a critical pillar for business sustainability, competitiveness and international investment readiness. He made the remarks at the launch of the ESG State of Play Report, jointly developed by NECA and the International Labour Organization (ILO), held on December 5, 2025, at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.

Mr. Oyerinde noted that the study represents the first comprehensive national benchmark on ESG awareness, adoption and readiness among Nigerian employers, and is expected to serve as a reference tool for policymakers, investors, development partners and corporate decision-makers. He explained that the findings will support more robust dialogue between government, industry and capital market actors, helping accelerate responsible business practices across the economy.

The Director-General highlighted that ESG has evolved beyond voluntary action to a strategic requirement for competitiveness, particularly as global markets increasingly tie access to finance, supply chains and partnerships to sustainability performance and credible reporting mechanisms. According to him, early corporate adopters will be better positioned to align with future regulatory developments and global trade expectations.

Mr. Oyerinde acknowledged the ILO’s partnership under the LEADER Programme (Leading Employers in Action for Social and Environmental Responsibility) and stated NECA’s commitment to enhancing business capacity through continuous advocacy, policy engagement, technical support and knowledge dissemination for a smooth ESG transition among employers.

The launch brought together high-level representatives from government, regulatory bodies and the private sector, including the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, National Council on Climate Change, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Lagos State Government agencies, Dangote Industries Limited, Access Bank Plc, British American Tobacco Marketing Nigeria Limited, Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and other leading corporate sustainability actors.

Mr. Oyerinde expressed confidence that the report will catalyse structured policy conversations, improved regulatory alignment and collaborative action, particularly for MSMEs that require incentives, capacity development and technical guidance for adoption. He reaffirmed NECA’s commitment to championing responsible enterprise, supporting Nigerian businesses to integrate ESG principles, and positioning the private sector for a more inclusive, sustainable and climate-conscious future.