Kayode Tokede

Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), yesterday said it has signed a multi-billion-naira   funding agreement with DEG Impulse gGmbH, a subsidiary of the German Development Finance Institution, DEG – Deutsche Investitions-und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH, part of KfW Bankengruppe, to commence the implementation of its flagship NGX Net-Zero Programme (N-Zero).

The recently signed agreement in Cologne, Germany, marks a major step forward in NGX Group’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience and promote low-carbon development across Nigeria’s private sector. The multi-billion-naira funding was secured under DEG Impulse’s develoPPP programme, which supports innovative private sector initiatives with high development impact.

N-Zero is designed to support businesses with the tools, frameworks, and technical guidance required to set, validate, and achieve science-based emission reduction targets. It aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and the global goal of limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C.

By bringing together global climate partners, including implementing partner Africa Foresight Group (AFG), NGX Group, through N-Zero, will assist companies in developing credible transition plans and carbon projects that generate verifiable carbon credits, thereby supporting economic resilience, promoting green investments, and contributing to a decarbonized future.

The Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NGX Group, Mr. Temi Popoola  in a statement said:“The signing of this agreement with DEG Impulse marks a significant milestone in our sustainability journey. This partnership demonstrates strong confidence in our vision to drive sustainable finance, build a climate-conscious private sector in Nigeria and champion climate action across Africa.

“Through N-Zero, we aim to translate ambition into measurable impact by reducing emissions and positioning Nigerian corporates to benefit from emerging opportunities in the global carbon market.”

Group Chairman of NGX Group, Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga  in a statement also added that,  “This initiative represents a bold step toward positioning NGX Group at the forefront of climate leadership in Africa. As we activate the N-Zero Programme, we reaffirm our long-standing commitment to innovation, sustainable development, and creating long-term value for the Nigerian economy. It is our firm belief that capital markets must play a central role in delivering climate solutions, and this partnership is a model for what is possible when global institutions collaborate with local expertise”.

On his part, Managing Director of DEG Impulse, Dr. Hubertus Pleister in a statement  said, “With the support of the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the develoPPP initiative contributes to NGX’ transformation journey by addressing climate risks and advancing sustainability through strategic and innovative collaboration – reinforcing our shared commitment to building resilient capital markets and enabling long-term impact.”

 The “NGX’ N-Zero Programme” will run from June 2025 to April 2027 and is expected to reduce or avoid 20,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions. It will support at least 26 businesses in implementing environmental and social standards and provide access to carbon markets through credit registration and emissions offsetting. This collaboration underscores NGX Group’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action) and its role in advancing Nigeria’s transition to a more sustainable and inclusive economy