The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) has made history by becoming the first state-owned oil company in Africa to sign up for participation in the United Nations Global Compact, the world’s largest voluntary corporate sustainability initiative.
The momentous signing ceremony occurred on Thursday, September 21, on the sidelines of the 78th United Nations General Assembly session.
The signing of the agreement was conducted by Mele Kyari, the Managing Director/CEO of NNPCL, and Naomi Nwokolo, the Executive Director of UN Global Compact Nigeria.
The presence of Nigeria’s Minister of Trade and Investment, Honorable (Dr.) Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite added significance to the event.
Experts say by joining the United Nations Global Compact, NNPCL has demonstrated its dedication to aligning business strategies and operations with universal human rights, labour, environment, and anti-corruption principles.
A public affairs commentator, Shaibu Adamu said:
”This significant step reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to international best practices and sustainability, particularly within the oil and gas industry, which plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economy.
”NNPCL’s decision to embrace the UN Global Compact underscores the importance of corporate responsibility and sustainable development in addressing global challenges.
”This move is expected to have a positive ripple effect on Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and serve as a catalyst for other African state-owned oil companies to follow suit.
”NNPCL’s participation in the United Nations Global Compact represents a commendable stride toward a more sustainable and responsible future, both for the company and the continent at large.”
