(Video) WASSA 2026: West Africa charts new course for green transition, growth
Cross section of WASSA Awards winners 2026
By Daniel Ekiye
West African business leaders, policymakers, sustainability advocates and development stakeholders have called for stronger environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments as the region seeks to accelerate its transition to a greener and more inclusive economy.
The call was made at the 2026 West Africa Sustainability Summit & Awards (WASSA), held on October 2 at Lagos Oriental Hotel.
Organised by The Sustainable Report Africa Media Limited, the summit was themed, “Accelerating Africa’s Green Transition: People, Planet & Prosperity.”
The event brought together stakeholders to examine how Africa can pursue environmental sustainability while addressing economic development, social inclusion and the need to improve livelihoods.
In his welcome address, Chairman of Business Times, Dada Ajai-Ikhile Arpa, stressed the importance of collective action and responsible leadership in tackling the continent’s environmental and socioeconomic challenges.
A key message from the summit was that Africa’s green transition must be people-centred, with sustainability policies designed to create economic opportunities, decent jobs and improved living conditions while protecting the environment.
Six key areas
Discussions at the summit focused on six major areas: ESG integration and corporate accountability; climate finance and green investment; sustainable agriculture and food security; youth, gender and inclusive sustainability; policy, regulation and the green economy; and technology, innovation and the digital green transition.
Participants examined the role of governments, businesses and communities in achieving environmental goals without leaving vulnerable groups behind.
Issues discussed included renewable energy, carbon markets, biodiversity conservation, sustainable business practices, digital technologies and inclusive economic development.
Climate finance and green investment received particular attention, with stakeholders examining their potential to support Africa’s energy transition and broader economic transformation.
Participants also highlighted the need for sustainable agricultural practices and stronger food systems as climate change continues to affect agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.
The discussions further examined how technology and digital innovation could improve resource efficiency, strengthen environmental monitoring and open new opportunities in the emerging green economy.
Youth, women and green transition
The summit also placed emphasis on the role of young people and women in Africa’s sustainability drive.
Speakers noted that West Africa’s youthful population presents an opportunity to expand green entrepreneurship, technological innovation, sustainable businesses and employment.
They also stressed the importance of improving access to financing, entrepreneurship opportunities and decision-making platforms for women and young people to ensure a more inclusive transition.
Sustainability Awards
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the West African Sustainability Awards, which recognised organisations, companies and individuals for their contributions to environmental, social and governance advancement.
The organisers said the awards were designed to promote sustainability, accountability and innovation.
According to the organisers, nominations were assessed by an independent panel comprising representatives from academia, civil society, the private sector and international development organisations.
Among the recipients were:
– United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Financial Institution of the Year 2026.
– Spiro — Most Sustainable Integrated Electric Vehicle Ecosystem Company of the Year 2026.
– Trust Radio — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Terrestrial and Digital Audio Services Company of the Year 2026.
– Sigma Securities Limited — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Asset Management and Stockbroking Company of the Year 2026.
– MBH Power — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Integrated Power and Energy Company of the Year 2026.
– Margaret Joseph Asian — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Hospitality Services Personality of the Year 2026.
– Protea Hotel — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Accommodation and Broad-Range Guest Amenities Services Company of the Year 2026.
– Media Trust Group — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Terrestrial and Digital Audio Services Company of the Year 2026.
– Julius Berger Nigeria Plc — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Engineering and Construction Contracting Company of the Year 2026.
– Mayhill Hotel — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Hospitality Services Company of the Year 2026.
– First Securities Brokers Limited — West Africa’s Most Sustainable Equities and Securities Trading Company of the Year 2026.
Other organisations and individuals were also honoured for their contributions to sustainable development, responsible business practices and ESG advancement.
Towards sustainable future
The summit reinforced the need for stronger collaboration among governments, businesses, investors, civil society organisations, young people and communities as Africa responds to climate change, energy challenges, food insecurity and rapid urbanisation.
Participants stressed that Africa’s sustainability efforts must translate into practical action, measurable impact and greater accountability.
The discussions ultimately centred on the need to balance environmental protection with social inclusion and economic prosperity in building a more resilient future for the continent.
The event ended with a networking session, providing participants an opportunity to strengthen relationships and continue discussions around sustainability and responsible business practices.
