International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

The Nigerian oil and gas sector faces significant sustainability challenges amidst growing global pressure for transparent environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosures. This research examines the relationship between ESG reporting practices and stakeholder trust in Africa's largest petroleum industry. This study employs a systematic literature review methodology, analysing secondary data from peer-reviewed journals, corporate sustainability reports, regulatory frameworks, and empirical studies published between 2014 and 2025. The sample includes eight listed Nigerian oil and gas companies and regulatory documents from the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). Empirical evidence indicates that comprehensive ESG reporting significantly influences stakeholder trust metrics, though with varying effects across ESG domains. Social disclosure (p<0.05) and environmental disclosure (p<0.01) demonstrate significant positive relationships with market performance indicators, while governance disclosure shows inconsistent statistical significance. Regulatory frameworks such as the Petroleum Industry Act (2021) and Nigerias Climate Change Act (2021) are driving the adoption of mandatory reporting, with full implementation expected by 2028. Strategic ESG reporting represents a critical pathway for rebuilding stakeholder trust in Nigerias oil and gas sector. Companies demonstrating authentic commitment beyond compliance through verified disclosures, community engagement, and transparent governance structures achieve higher trust dividends. Future research should explore sector-specific ESG metrics and longitudinal trust measurement frameworks.