Olajobi Makinwa is the United Nations Global Compact’s Chief, Intergovernmental Relations & Africa where she leads high-level interactions with governments as well as strengthening relations and mobilizing political support to advance the work of the UN Global Compact. She also coordinates relations with regional organizations. When we had this interview with her, she was the UNGC’s chief, Africa, and our conversations were around her work on anti-corruption with organizations under the UNGC.
We hope you enjoy this interview as much as we enjoyed putting it together.
How did you begin your journey in the development space?
My journey in the development field started as a student when I sat in on an International Law class with my beloved teacher, Prof. Akin Oyebode at the University of Lagos. I was captivated and signed up for the class. I ended up obtaining the Bola Ajibola Prize for the student with the best result in International Law. As part of the study of International Law, we looked at the international law of development. The rest, they
My UN career started at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in Nairobi where I volunteered at the Regional Office for Africa. I was later employed at UNEP Environmental Law and Institutions Programme Activity Centre where we facilitated the development of
For women, what is the reality of achieving gender equality, in your opinion?
Women constitute 50% of the world’s population. However, many women and girls are not given the opportunity to reach their full potential. Despite many reports on the business case for gender equality, studies continue to show us that we are far from reaching gender equality. We hear more words and less action. Gender equality is a human rights issue.; Governments, captains of industry and influencers in society need to act. Women, girls, boys, and men should continue to speak out in support of gender equality. We need more women leaders, leaders who can mentor other women. Laws and policies alone will not solve the problem. Effective implementation and enforcement of laws and policies together with taking concrete and bold action is required.
L-R: Bekeme Masade, Olajobi Makinwa (UNGC Africa Chief), Amina Mohammed (UN DSG), Omobolanle (Head, Sustainability, Access bank),& a member of UNGC Local Network Steering Committee at the Honorary event for Amina Mohammed
How tough is your job as the United Nations Global Compact Chief for Africa?
Most jobs are incredibly challenging. Life itself is a challenge.
It gives me immense joy to see how companies are embedding corporate sustainability into their operations. Many companies now see that it is in their enlightened self-interest to conduct business in a sustainable way. The challenge is to get a critical mass of companies to embrace and embed sustainability into their operations.
Kindly shed more light on the project you are currently handling with anti-corruption and the UNGC Local Compact.
I led UN Global Compact work for many years and was instrumental to the evolution and growth of the UN Global Compact’s work on the 10th principle which calls on business to fight corruption in all its forms, including extortion. I successfully led the development of strategic projects on the 10th Principle, including Siemens Integrity Initiative on Collective Action to fight corruption (SII). Collective Action is a proven method to stem the tide against corruption. Fighting corruption requires governments, the private sector, and civil society to join hands together to fight corruption. Companies too should work with other companies since the effort of one company alone is not sufficient to stem the tide against corruption. Through SII, we supported Global Compact Local Networks in some countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
What are your favorite SDGs and how do you think businesses can support their realization?
My favourite SDG is goal 16. It’s about peace, justice, and strong institutions. Without peace, justice,
What has motivated you all through your career?
I believe in the dignity of human beings. My belief in human dignity and dislike of injustice and poverty in whatever form motivate me daily. The world has the capacity to eradicate poverty, achieve gender equality, protect the oceans, have sustainable cities, protect migrants and so on and so forth. This is what sustainable development is all about. The development that is about People, the Planet and Prosperity. We must improve the lives of people. We must protect the environment that gives us so much, yet we abuse and violate the environment. Why can’t we all enjoy peace and prosperity? We all have a part to play to ensure that the SDGs are realized before the year 2030. I am reminded of the “Aspirations of African Union’s Agenda 2063, Africa that is prosperous based on inclusive growth and sustainable development, good governance, democracy, respect for human rights justice, rule of law, a peaceful Africa and many
What would your advice be to young Nigerian professionals striving to reach the peak of their careers?
Believe in the power of prayers. I believe that God can take you to a place where you never thought you can get to. Working hard is also important. A Yoruba adage says that “hard work is the antidote to poverty”. Also, read a lot and don’t limit yourself to a particular field.
How do you take time out to relax from work?
Well, I don’t think my husband and family will say that I rest. I rest by meditating on the words of God. I read my Bible. I’m not somebody that goes out a lot and when I go out, I go to church and church events. I love dancing though! I still do, especially in Church.
