Chapter 5: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Through Corporate Engagement: Challenges and Opportunities in Nigeria

This chapter critically examines corporate sector engagement with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria, assessing both contributions and limitations. It explores the extent to which businesses integrate sustainability into their core operations and identifies key challenges in achieving meaningful SDG alignment.

The chapter employs a qualitative approach, drawing on case studies of leading Nigerian corporations – Dangote Group, MTN Nigeria and Shell Nigeria – to analyse corporate sustainability practices. It considers ethical considerations, regulatory influences, economic incentives and international partnerships as critical factors shaping corporate engagement with the SDGs.

While corporations have made contributions to economic growth, digital inclusion and environmental conservation, engagement remains largely confined to corporate social responsibility (CSR) rather than embedded within core business strategies. Persistent gaps exist in addressing systemic issues such as inequality, weak governance and environmental degradation.

The chapter calls for stronger regulatory frameworks, enhanced public–private partnerships and targeted financial incentives to drive corporate SDG integration. Businesses must embed sustainability within governance structures to maximise long-term impact.

By examining corporate SDG engagement in Nigeria, this chapter provides insights applicable to other developing economies facing similar socio-economic and regulatory challenges. It highlights the need for a more robust, accountable and strategic approach to corporate sustainability.