FITC URGES FIRMS TO PRIORITISE SUSTAINABILITY

The Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC) has called on Nigerian companies to prioritise sustainability in their operations as a key driver of long-term success and regulatory compliance.

The Director General of FITC, Dr. Mrs. Chizoba Emejulu, made the call on Friday during the opening of a sustainability leadership workshop in Lagos. She emphasised that businesses that integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into their strategies will be better positioned to thrive in the evolving global business environment.

“Sustainability is no longer optional. Companies must embed it into their core operations to manage risks, attract investment, and contribute to national development,” Emejulu stated.

The workshop, which brought together executives from various sectors, focused on practical strategies for implementing sustainability initiatives, measuring impact, and reporting on ESG performance. Participants discussed the growing importance of sustainability reporting and the role of leadership in driving corporate responsibility.

FITC has been at the forefront of capacity building for the financial services industry and has recently expanded its programmes to include sustainability and responsible business practices. The centre said it will continue to support organisations in developing the skills needed to navigate the sustainability landscape.

Experts at the event highlighted the increasing pressure from investors, regulators, and consumers for businesses to adopt sustainable practices. They noted that companies that fail to embrace sustainability risk losing competitiveness and access to capital.

The FITC Director General urged firms to view sustainability not as a cost but as an opportunity for innovation and value creation. She encouraged participants to develop actionable sustainability plans and to collaborate with stakeholders to achieve meaningful impact.

The workshop is part of FITC’s broader initiative to promote responsible business practices and support the growth of a sustainable corporate sector in Nigeria.