NECA, ILO launch ESG report, urge stronger corporate commitment

By Zika Bobby

​The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has launched a comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) State of Play Report for Nigeria.

​Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Director-General of NECA, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, called for stronger private-sector commitment to ESG standards, stressing that they are a critical pillar for business sustainability, global competitiveness, and international investment readiness.

​ Oyerinde noted that the study represents the first comprehensive national benchmark on ESG awareness, adoption, and readiness among Nigerian employers. It is designed to serve as a key 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 to accelerate responsible business practices across the economy.

​The Director-General highlighted that ESG has moved beyond voluntary action to become a strategic requirement for competitiveness. Global markets are increasingly tying access to finance, supply chains, and partnerships to credible sustainability performance and reporting mechanisms.

​According to Oyerinde, early corporate adopters will be better positioned to align with future regulatory developments and evolving global trade expectations. ​Acknowledging the ILO’s partnership under the LEADER Programme (Leading Employers in Action for Social and Environmental Responsibility), NECA reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing business capacity through continuous advocacy, policy engagement, and technical support. ​The launch drew high-level participation from government, regulatory bodies, and the private sector, including the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the National Council on Climate Change, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and corporate leaders from Dangote Industries, Access Bank Plc, and Nestlé Nigeria Plc.

​Oyerinde expressed confidence that the report will catalyze structured policy conversations and collaborative action, particularly for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that require specific incentives and technical guidance for ESG adoption.