Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, has been appointed to the Board of the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria (UNGCNN), further cementing her role as a leading voice in advancing Africa’s sustainable development agenda.
The announcement, made through UN Global Compact Network Nigeria’s official channels, comes just ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where Ibekwe is expected to engage with global leaders across government, private sector, and civil society to accelerate Africa’s progress toward Agenda 2030.
Under her leadership at Sterling One Foundation, Ibekwe has championed sustainable solutions in education, healthcare access, and women and youth empowerment. The Foundation has not only built global affiliations but also delivered tangible local impact, reaching thousands of beneficiaries while shaping policies and partnerships across Africa.
Her appointment comes at a critical moment. With only 15% of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on track worldwide and Africa facing a $200 billion annual financing gap, experts say political will, bold decision-making, private sector engagement, and cross-sector collaboration are urgently needed.
Reacting to the development, Ibekwe described the appointment as “an opportunity to further strengthen the localisation of the SDGs,” a cause she has long championed. Her work also aligns with the UN Global Compact Principles and the African Union’s Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI) 2030 initiative, both of which emphasize inclusive growth and responsible private sector action.
Observers highlight her central role in convenings like the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), which brings together governments, businesses, and civil society to forge partnerships that unlock Africa’s potential.
With her new role on the UNGCNN Board, Ibekwe is expected to bring grassroots experience and continental insights into global conversations — reinforcing the view that Africa is not merely a recipient of aid but a key driver of innovation and sustainable solutions.
The UN Global Compact Network Nigeria is the local chapter of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, mobilizing businesses and organizations to align strategies with universal principles and advance the SDGs.
