Kwairanga unveils NGX Net-Zero initiative to boost Nigeria’s capital market
Nike Popoola
Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), has officially launched the NGX Net-Zero Programme, an initiative aimed at guiding listed companies in Nigeria toward net-zero pathways, climate disclosure, and sustainable growth.
The launch took place during the NGX-DEG CEO Roundtable and Closing Gong Ceremony at the NGX Building, Marina, Lagos today.
Delivering the welcome remarks, Dr. Kwairanga emphasized the growing importance of climate action and sustainability as core business imperatives. “Capital markets globally are critical enablers of the transition to a low-carbon economy, mobilizing capital, setting standards, and incentivizing responsible corporate behaviour,” he said. “Africa, and Nigeria in particular, must not be passive participants in this transition but active shapers of it.”
The NGX Net-Zero Programme is designed to support listed companies in measuring and reducing their carbon footprints, enhancing ESG disclosures, building capacity, and accessing sustainable finance opportunities.
Dr. Kwairanga encouraged CEOs to see the initiative not merely as a compliance exercise, but as a strategic opportunity to attract long-term capital, strengthen investor confidence, and future-proof their businesses.
Dr. Kwairanga also expressed gratitude to NGX’s key partners, including the German Investment and Development Company (DEG), led by Ms. Monika Beck, and AFG, the implementation partner. He specially acknowledged Mr. Bernd Tilemann, outgoing Regional Director of DEG, for his leadership, and congratulated Mr. Ikenna Mbaekwe, the incoming Regional Director for West Africa.
The NGX Chairman reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to working with regulators, development finance institutions, and listed companies to drive sustainable finance, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth.
He urged all participants to actively engage and embed climate considerations into their governance and operations, setting a new benchmark for Nigeria’s capital market.
