Welcome Address by the Chairman, NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga at the NGX N-Zero Launch Day and Signing Ceremony at the German Investment and Development Company headquarters at Colonge, Germany.
Good morning distinguished guests, colleagues and our valued partners at DEG.
On behalf of the Board, Management and stakeholders of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, it gives me great pleasure to be here today to mark this important milestone in the journey of the Nigerian Exchange Group.
This collaboration with DEG represents much more than the signing of an agreement; It symbolizes our shared commitment to driving meaningful change, by creating pathways for climate action, sustainable finance, and long-term economic resilience in Nigeria and across Africa.
In recent years, the global conversation around climate action and sustainability has intensified and rightly so. The role of capital markets in facilitating this transition is becoming increasingly pivotal. At NGX Group, we have consistently sought ways to lead from the front, championing initiatives that not only deliver commercial value but also create long-term positive impact on society and the environment.
The NGX Net Zero Programme (N-Zero) is a bold step in that direction. This initiative speaks directly to our commitment to driving responsible investing, supporting listed companies in their transition to net-zero emissions, and positioning the Nigerian capital market as a hub for green and sustainable finance solutions.
We deeply appreciate the support and confidence that DEG has shown in this vision. Your backing sends a strong signal to the broader development finance community that Nigeria is serious about climate action and sustainability.
Beyond today’s signing ceremony, we see this partnership as the beginning of a long-term relationship, one that will unlock new pathways for sustainable financing models, investor participation, and economic resilience.
It is also a powerful platform for NGX Group to demonstrate leadership, attract global ESG capital flows, and set new standards for the African market.
The NGX Group will host the platform, publicise it and work to on board many of our listed companies. We shall also provide project management and oversight to ensure effectiveness and transparency.
We are part of this Initiative because we recognise the impact that climate change could have on humanity and the need to take appropriate actions to mitigate and reverse such impact. With the assistance of partners such as DEG and the African Foresight Group, I believe we will be able to do effective and impactful work in that direction.
Let me thank all our partners once again for the tremendous work that has been put into making this day a reality.
I want to commend NGX Group and AFG management team and all the project partners who have worked tirelessly to bring this initiative to life. Your dedication is evident in the quality and ambition of the programme we are launching.
As we move forward, I am confident that the NGX Net Zero Programme will not only deliver measurable environmental impact but will also strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global investment landscape.
Thank you all for your support, partnership and commitment to this cause. Together, we can build a more sustainable future.
