The Nigerian Exchange Group, in collaboration with Germany’s development finance institution DEG and leading corporate players, has launched an initiative to accelerate Nigeria’s transition to net-zero and position local firms to access climate-linked capital estimated at $3 bn.

The NGX–DEG CEO Roundtable brought together corporate leaders, development finance institutions, and market stakeholders to advance the NGX Net-Zero Programme, a market-led initiative aimed at strengthening the long-term competitiveness and investability of listed companies.

In his opening remarks, Group Chairman of NGX, Umaru Kwairanga said capital markets must lead Africa’s climate response. “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 said.

Also, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NGX, Temi Popoola, highlighted the investment rationale, noting that climate risk is now a key factor in corporate valuation and capital allocation. “Global capital is increasingly conditional, with climate risk directly impacting cost of capital. Companies that embed sustainability into strategy and governance are better positioned to attract long-term investment,” he said.

Additionally, Member of the Management Board of DEG, Monika Beck, added that the partnership aims to mobilise private capital to accelerate climate action while delivering sustainable development impact. “Partnerships like this enable us to scale solutions that are both impactful and commercially viable,” she said.

During the session, CEO of Chapel Hill Denham, Bolaji Balogun noted that execution remains a key challenge. “Access to capital, technical expertise and credible frameworks are essential if climate reporting is to translate into real investor value,” he said.

The President and CEO of Transcorp Plc, Owen Omogiafo, stressed the importance of practical solutions. “Africa’s climate transition must be practical and inclusive, balancing sustainability objectives with economic growth and social impact,” he said.

The event concluded with a Closing Gong Ceremony and follows a multi-million-naira co-funding partnership between NGX and DEG Impulse gGmbH under Germany’s develoPPP programme, which provides subsidised net-zero transition planning, technical capacity building, and globally recognised frameworks for listed companies.