UN Global Compact Nigeria Launches Transformational Governance Toolkit

The United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria has launched a new Transformational Governance Toolkit, a comprehensive online resource designed to empower businesses in their commitment to ethical, responsible and impactful practices in their operations and stakeholder interactions.

The UN Global Compact Network Nigeria launched the “Transformational Governance Toolkit.” at an event in Nigeria’s commercial hub Lagos.

The toolkit is designed to help companies embrace environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles in their operations and interactions with stakeholders.

The corporate guide of the product is a two-year collaboration between partner organisations across the world and participating companies in the United Nations Global Compact Think Lab on Transformational Governance.

Also Read: Global Compact Network Nigeria urges businesses to adopt SDGs

The Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Director of Coca-Cola HBC and Chairperson of UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, Oluwasoromidayo George, emphasized the growing importance of environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles.

She said “As stewards of Nigerian businesses, we must recognize that ESG is not a buzzword; it is our compass for sustainable growth.”

Naomi Nwokolo, Executive Director of UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, highlighted the toolkit’s alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).

She explained that the tool equips companies to “transform their governance not only internally but also within the communities they operate in,” fostering strong corporate governance, which is “vital for attracting investment and fostering sustainable economic growth in Nigeria.”

Ayotola Jagun, Chief Compliance Officer and Company Secretary of Oando Plc & Board Member and Co-Thematic Lead, Anti-Corruption and Governance, UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, emphasized the ongoing commitment required for transformational governance, stating: “The journey is continuous, requiring commitment, collaboration, and ongoing evaluation.”

 The event culminated in a group discussion moderated by Uto Ukpanah, Company Secretary of MTN Nigeria Plc, & Board Member and Co-Thematic Lead, Anti-Corruption and Governance, UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, giving participants the opportunity to address gaps, exchange insights, and explore innovative ideas regarding transformational governance and other environment, social, and governance considerations in Nigeria.

The user-friendly online toolkit features a Transformational Governance Self-Assessment Tool, allowing companies to: Engage with and apply the principles of transformational governance, assess their baseline on the spectrum of transformational governance, identify key gaps in their current approach, mapped against relevant SDG 16 targets.

This launch signifies a significant step towards supporting ethical and responsible business practices in Nigeria, contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.