Sterling One Foundation CEO Olapeju Ibekwe Appointed to UN Global Compact Nigeria Board
Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, has been named to the Board of the United Nations Global Compact Network Nigeria (UNGCNN), highlighting her influential role in advancing Africa’s sustainable development agenda.
The announcement was made through official UNGCNN channels just ahead of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, where Ibekwe is expected to engage with global leaders across government, business, and civil society to foster partnerships that promote Africa’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This appointment underscores Ibekwe’s proven dedication to implementing sustainable solutions in areas such as education, healthcare, and women and youth empowerment. Under her leadership, Sterling One Foundation has expanded its international partnerships and created tangible impact on the continent, reaching thousands and influencing policy dialogue across Africa.
Experts emphasize that her appointment comes at a crucial juncture, as only 15% of SDGs are currently on track worldwide, and Africa faces a $200 billion annual financing gap. Addressing these challenges requires not just funding but also strong political will, private sector engagement, courageous policymaking, and effective cross-sector collaboration.
Commenting on her new role, Ibekwe described it as an opportunity to deepen efforts in localizing SDG initiatives—a cause she has vigorously championed through her foundation. The appointment also aligns her more closely with UN Global Compact Principles and the African Union’s Women and Youth Financial and Economic Inclusion (WYFEI) 2030 initiative, both of which focus on inclusive growth and responsible private sector participation.
Observers note that her position highlights the importance of gatherings such as the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), where Ibekwe plays a pivotal role in mobilizing stakeholders to unlock Africa’s potential through strategic partnerships. With this new appointment, she brings grassroots experience and continental insights into global dialogues, reinforcing the narrative that Africa is not merely a beneficiary of aid but a driver of innovation and sustainable solutions.
The UN Global Compact Network Nigeria, a chapter of the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative, continues to galvanize businesses and organizations to align their strategies with universal principles and actively contribute toward achieving the SDGs.