Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), in collaboration with Germany’s development finance institution DEG and Africa Foresight Group, convened a CEO Roundtable to accelerate corporate climate commitments and position Nigerian corporates for access to climate-linked capital estimated at $2.5–$3.0 billion.
The NGX–DEG CEO Roundtable brought together chief executives, development finance institutions and key market stakeholders to advance the NGX Net-Zero Programme (N-Zero), a market-led initiative designed to strengthen the long-term investability and competitiveness of companies listed on the Nigerian Exchange. The engagement focused on helping corporates move beyond climate pledges towards clear actions that meet global investor expectations.
In his opening remarks, the Group Chairman of NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, said capital markets have a critical role to play in shaping Africa’s climate response. According to him, “Capital markets must be at the centre of climate leadership in Africa. The NGX Net-Zero Programme enables companies to move from climate ambition to measurable action.” He added that aligning corporate strategies with sustainability goals is increasingly important for companies seeking long-term growth.
Presenting the investment rationale, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola, noted that climate considerations are now central to how companies are valued. “Global capital is increasingly becoming conditional, with climate risk directly impacting cost of capital and valuation. Companies that embed sustainability into strategy and governance are better positioned to attract long-term capital,” he said.
On her part, Ms. Monika Beck, Member of the Management Board of DEG, said the institution’s strategy focuses on mobilising private capital to support climate action while delivering development impact. “Partnerships such as this enable us to scale solutions that are both impactful and commercially viable,” she stated.
During the interactive session, the Chief Executive Officer of Chapel Hill Denham, Mr. Bolaji Balogun, said execution remains a major hurdle, stressing that “access to capital, technical expertise and credible frameworks are essential if climate reporting is to translate into real investor value.”
Also speaking, the President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Plc, Dr. Owen Omogiafo, OON, said Africa’s climate transition must be practical and inclusive, balancing sustainability goals with economic growth and social impact.
The event, which concluded with a Closing Gong Ceremony, follows a multi-million-naira co-funding partnership between NGX Group and DEG Impulse gGmbH under Germany’s develoPPP programme. The partnership is providing listed companies with subsidised net-zero transition planning, technical capacity building and access to globally recognised climate frameworks.
Read Also: FG allocates ₦202bn to NSIPA programmes
