The Pan-African Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Forum 2025: A Crucial Gathering for Africa’s Sustainable Future
The Pan-African Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Forum 2025 is set to be a pivotal event for policymakers, business leaders, academics, and sustainability advocates. Scheduled for 29 October 2025 at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, the Forum will delve into one of Africa’s most pressing challenges: balancing energy security with the imperative of decarbonisation. Under the compelling theme, “Energy Security and Decarbonisation: Bridging the Gap for a Sustainable Future,” this event promises to foster insightful discussions and strategic collaborations.
A Pre-Forum Masterclass
To kick off the event, a virtual masterclass on 28 October 2025 will precede the main forum. This session aims to set a robust foundation for discussions by featuring expert-led deep dives into innovative energy solutions and emerging sustainability trends. Participants can expect to engage comprehensively with the latest strategies influencing energy landscapes and sustainable practices.
Partnerships Fuelling the Initiative
The 2025 ESG Forum has already attracted substantial backing from leading organisations such as Nesgas, Stanbic IBTC, WACOT Rice (part of TGI Group), and BAT Nigeria, among others. These partnerships illustrate a widespread commitment to cultivating a sustainable business environment across Africa. By joining forces, these entities underscore the critical need for collaborative efforts in addressing sustainability issues, reinforcing the notion that impactful solutions often arise from collective action.
Building on Previous Momentum
This edition of the ESG Forum continues the rich legacy of its predecessors, reaffirming its status as Africa’s premier platform for sustainability dialogue. Previous forums have laid significant groundwork for discussions on vital topics, and this year, the focus on energy and climate uncertainty showcases an urgent call-to-action. With its continued emphasis on bringing together diverse stakeholders, the forum aims to strengthen networks that can navigate Africa’s unique challenges.
Highlighting Key Issues
In 2025, the forum will address essential questions surrounding the financing of energy transitions and the practical pathways to achieving renewable energy adoption in resource-limited contexts. Expert sessions will aim to illuminate pragmatic collaboration models between governments, businesses, and communities. A significant emphasis will be placed on crafting strategies that balance sustainability objectives with Africa’s increasing energy demands, while also working towards emission reduction.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Odiri Erewa-Meggison, Chair of the ESG Forum Technical Committee and External Affairs Director for BAT WCA, stated, “The challenge before us is as urgent as it is complex. Africa must meet its rapidly growing energy needs while simultaneously acting on a critical path to decarbonisation.” This sentiment resonates strongly, highlighting the dual pressures that necessitate immediate action from all sectors.
Similarly, Tosin Leye-Odeyemi, Head of Risk & Capital Management at Stanbic IBTC Holdings, expressed pride in being a partner in the Forum. He remarked, “The ESG Forum provides a unique space where key stakeholders can co-create solutions that are practical, scalable, and rooted in Africa’s realities.” This perspective underscores the importance of localised solutions instead of merely importing global models that may not suit African contexts.
Celebrating Cross-Industry Collaboration
Otome Afiegbe, Executive Director at Nesgas Producing, reaffirmed the Forum’s reputation for promoting cross-industry collaboration aimed at sustainability. He noted, “In 2025, the focus on energy and climate reflects the twin pressures shaping Africa’s development trajectory: building energy resilience while responding to the global climate imperative.” This understanding of interconnected challenges highlights the Forum’s critical role in facilitating essential dialogues.
Engaging a Diverse Audience
The Forum is expected to host over 300 participants, including regulators, corporate leaders, sustainability experts, and advocates. Together, they will explore innovative financing options, green technology adoption, and the significance of public-private partnerships—elements vital to accelerating Africa’s transition towards sustainability.
By bringing together such a diverse array of stakeholders, the ESG Forum aims to foster robust conversations around sustainable development, positioning Africa to tackle its energy challenges more effectively while adhering to global climate commitments.
In a rapidly evolving global landscape, the Pan-African ESG Forum 2025 promises to be a cornerstone event for driving forward-thinking initiatives in energy security and decarbonisation, ensuring Africa can carve out its sustainable future while addressing its unique demands.