Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, NECA says its members createeight out of every 10 jobs in thecountry. This occurred as Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu assured the state’s organised private sector, OPS, of a more accommodating operating climate. NECA, represented by its Director General, Mr Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, and Governor Sanwo-Olu, spoke at the 4th NECA Annual Employers’ Excellence Awards, held in Lagos. Oyerinde explained that the awards were created to recognise businesses’ resilience, perseverance, innovation, and contributions to national development.
According to him, “The private sector contributes eight out of every 10 jobs in the country. The awards are focusing more on fundamental issues affecting businesses globally such as climate change, sustainability, just transition and the Environment, Social and Governance, ESG, issues.
“It alsoaboutdeepening engagementswith the Centre for International Private Enterprise, CIPE, and theInternational Labour Organisation, ILO, in the context ofresponsible business conduct withinthe context of the law.”It is also about advocating against conflicting business regulations and institutions that view organised corporations as cash cows rather than agents of national growth.
The award is intended to recognise enterprises that continue to operate in the country despite the country’s difficult economic conditions, as well as those that have left in the recent year due to their contribution to the economy, even if he anticipated their return.The award has become a national benchmark for corporate performance, recognising organisations that have excelled in their contributions to the economy as well as their commitment to employee welfare, diversity, and sustainability.
The “Defying The Odds” award recognises organisations that prioritise not only profitability but also the well-being of their employees and society. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of employers in fostering economic growth and development, reaffirming the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by HoS Head of Service Olabode Agoro, spoke on the theme ‘Defying the Odds’, emphasising Nigerian employers’ resilience, innovation, and determination in overcoming challenges to sustain businesses, create jobs, and drive national development. He stated that resilience reflects the enduring entrepreneurial spirit that defines Nigeria as a great nation.
During the awards ceremony, MTN Nigeria, Fidson Healthcare, and Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) were named Employer of the Year, while Dangote Industries Limited and Nestle Nigeria were recognised for their efforts to promote workplace diversity, innovation, and employee well-being. He urged employers to take the lead in addressing these challenges.
