A set of 17 big goals that can help make the world a better place. These are called the Sustainable Development Goals, or SDGs for short. They were created by the United Nations in 2015 to solve problems like poverty, hunger, and climate change by 2030. Nigerian businesses can use these goals to grow stronger, help the country, and compete with companies all over the world.
Let’s break it down in a simple way to see how this works!
1. Using SDGs to Grow Nigeria’s Economy- The SDGs are like a guide for businesses to help Nigeria’s economy grow. For example, SDG 1 is about ending poverty, and SDG 8 is about creating good jobs. Nigerian businesses can focus on these goals to make life better for people and build a stronger economy:
- Helping Small Businesses: Small businesses in Nigeria, like shops orstartups, create half of the country’s money, but many can’t get loans. Banks can help by giving them money to grow, which fits with SDG 8. Thismeans more jobs and more money for everyone!
- Training Workers: A company called LADOL started a school in 2018 to teach people skills for jobs. This helps SDG 4 (good education) and SDG 8.
- When people learn new skills, they can work better and help other businesses grow too.
- Recycling and Saving Resources: Businesses can use less waste by recycling, which is part of SDG 12 (using things wisely). This saves moneyand makes their products more attractive to people around the world.
2. Protecting the Environment to Compete Globally- The SDGs also care about the environment, like SDG 13 (fighting climate change) and SDG 15 (protecting land). Nigeria has problems like floods and deserts growing bigger, which hurt businesses. By focusing on the environment, companies can stand out globally.
- Using Clean Energy: Many businesses in Nigeria use diesel generators forpower, which pollute the air. Switching to solar or wind energy helps SDG13 and saves money. Nigeria plans to add lots of clean energy by 2030, so businesses can lead the way!
- Keeping Nature Safe: Companies can make sure their products don’tharm rivers or forests, which fits SDG 14 (life in water) and SDG 15. Thismakes them look good to customers in other countries who care about the planet.
- Following Green Rules: Nigeria’s government has rules for businesses tocheck if their projects hurt the environment. By following these,companies can attract investors from around the world.
3. Using Technology to Get Ahead- SDG 9 is all about new ideas and technology. Nigeria is growing fast in tech, like with mobile phones and online shopping. Businesses can use this to compete globally.
- Going Digital: Nigeria’s internet and phone systems have helped businesses like online stores and Nollywood movies grow. Using tech helps businesses reach customers far away, which is part of SDG 9.
- Connecting Everyone: Many people in Nigeria don’t have internet,especially in rural areas. Businesses can help bring the internet to more places, which helps SDG 9 and lets them sell to more people.
4. Working Together for Success- SDG 17 is about teamwork. Businesses can work with the government, other companies, and groups like the United Nations to do more.
- Team Up with the Government: Nigeria’s government wants businesses to help with things like schools and hospitals. This is called a public private partnership and helps SDGs like 3 (good health) and 4 (education).
- Joining Africa’s Big Market: Nigeria is part of a huge African trade group called AfCFTA, which is like a giant market worth $3.4 trillion. Businesses can sell to other African countries, which helps SDG 17.
- Learning from the World: The United Nations helps Nigerian businesses learn how to be sustainable. By joining groups like the UN Global Compact, companies can connect with others worldwide.
5. Facing Challenges- It’s not always easy for Nigerian businesses to use the SDGs. Here are some problems they face:
- Not Enough Money: Nigeria needs a lot of money to reach the SDGs. Businesses can help by finding new ways to get funding.
- Power and Roads: Many places in Nigeria don’t have electricity or good roads, which makes it hard to work. Companies can use solar power or push for better roads to help SDG 7 (clean energy) and SDG 9.
- Confusing Rules: Sometimes, the government changes rules, which confuses businesses. They need clear rules to plan better, which fits SDG16 (fair systems).
6. Steps for Businesses to Take- Here’s how Nigerian businesses can use the SDGs to grow and compete:
- Make SDGs Part of the Plan: Focus on goals like fighting poverty orsaving the planet to make better business plans.
- Train Workers: Teach employees new skills, like LADOL does, to help SDGs 4 and 8.
- Use Green Ideas: Check if projects hurt the environment and use clean energy to save money.
- Go Tech-Savvy: Use the internet and phones to sell products and reach new customers.
- Work with Others: Team up with the government or other businesses to share ideas and money.
- Show Your Work: Tell people how you’re helping the SDGs look good to customers and investors.
Conclusion
The SDGs are like a map for Nigerian businesses to help the country grow and shine worldwide. By fighting poverty, protecting the environment, using technology, and working together, businesses can make Nigeria stronger and compete with the best. It’s not easy, but with the right steps, Nigerian companies can lead the way to a better future!
Author: Ejiose Ikunenobe
