Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Emem Ibanga, has called for the integration of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles, into policy and business strategies for sustainable development.

Princess Ibanga, who stated this while delivering her goodwill message at the Annual Marketing Conference of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), held on Friday, June 20, at Ceedapeg Hotels, Uyo, noted that ESG principles will serve as catalysts across emerging economies.

Speaking on the theme of the conference, “Leveraging ESG to Drive Values Across Generations,”  the Commissioner explained that ethical governance, inclusive growth, and alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), remain central to the State’s development strategy.

Hon. Emem Ibanga

She outlined Akwa Ibom’s proactive ESG agenda, and highlighted key environmental interventions such as the promotion of green agriculture, adoption of clean energy solutions, and climate resilient policies, designed to protect natural ecosystems.

In the social sphere, the Commissioner spotlighted flagship initiatives like the ARISE Compassionate Homes project, which she maintained, provides dignified shelter for vulnerable citizens, and various empowerment schemes aimed at economic inclusion.

Underscoring the importance of good governance in driving effective ESG outcomes, Hon. Ibanga further cited the Digital Akwa Ibom Policy as a key reform that ensures transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in government programmes and interventions.

She called on marketers and industry professionals, to shift from conventional marketing strategies to purpose-driven engagement that aligns with ESG values.

“We must become architects of generational impact,” she said, urging corporate organizations to deepen their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, particularly in vulnerable communities.

The Humanitarian boss, solicited multi-stakeholder collaboration, noting that the State was open for responsible partnerships.

She also invited the private sector, development agencies, and academic institutions to co-create and replicate ESG models that deliver measurable impact, averring that potential partners are humane, dutiful and responsive to the needs of society.

While encouraging participants to translate discussions into action, Ibanga lauded the leadership of NIMN for convening the strategic dialogue.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah,  highlighted the Governor’s strides, and urged marketing professionals across Nigeria to explore and promote the transformational achievements of the Governor Eno administration, by telling Akwa Ibom’s success story through creative and compelling marketing channels.

The President and Chairman of the Council of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN), Mr. Idorenyin Enang, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to God for the successful hosting of the event, describing his four-year tenure as one marked by grace and impactful leadership.

Reflecting on his achievements in office, Mr. Enang noted with pride that one of his key goals of promoting gender inclusiveness within the Institute, has been fulfilled with greater representation of women in leadership roles, as against the once male dominated institute.

The Conference brought together Captains of industries, trailblazing business leaders, strategic marketers, policymakers, and innovators.