Adegbola calls for ESG-driven governance at sustainability, finance conference

Michael Adesina

Global audit and sustainability expert, Adegbola Oreyingbo, has called for the adoption of ESG-driven governance at the 2022 Abuja Sustainability & Finance Leadership Conference held virtually.

He highlighted the strategic role of ESG and governance maturity in shaping Africa’s economic future.

Speaking on the topic “Building Investor-Ready Enterprises Through ESG and Governance Excellence,” Oreyingbo told an audience of policymakers, development institutions, and SME executives that Africa is on the verge of an economic breakthrough if businesses prioritize governance transformation.

He noted that global investors are increasingly directing funds toward organizations with strong internal controls, transparent reporting, and sustainability-aligned business models.

Drawing on his work at Workplace Stars Africa, where he leads Business Sustainability Projects across the continent, Oreyingbo warned that SMEs risk exclusion from international markets if they fail to adopt ESG-aligned frameworks.

He emphasized that ESG is no longer a donor-driven concept but a core requirement for competitiveness, resilience, and capital attraction.

Attendees praised Oreyingbo’s ability to simplify complex governance concepts into actionable strategies. His presentation underscored the need for executive discipline, risk-aware leadership, and integrated reporting systems.

He also highlighted the importance of mentorship and capacity building, stressing that “no sustainability strategy succeeds without strong people and competent leadership behind it.”

The Abuja event ended with a call for nationwide adoption of sustainability reporting and governance reforms, echoing recommendations Oreyingbo has championed for more than a decade.