Title: Unveiling the boardroom: how board diligence shapes board diversity-corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD) nexus in Nigeria's non-financial firms

Authors: Wisdom Okere; Cosmas Ambe; Sanele Phumlani Vilakazi

Addresses: Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Private Bag X 11283, Mbombela, 1200, South Africa ' Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Private Bag X 11283, Mbombela, 1200, South Africa ' Faculty of Economics, Development and Business Sciences, University of Mpumalanga, Private Bag X 11283, Mbombela, 1200, South Africa

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of board diligence on the relationship between board diversity and corporate social responsibility transparency in Nigeria's non-financial firms. Grounded in upper echelon and agency theory, the research employed a panel of 15 firms from 2013 to 2024. The ordinary least squares panel regression was employed, and findings show that ethnic diversity and professional background diversity enhance CSR transparency, while gender and nationality diversity exert negative influences, reflecting symbolic appointment and limitations in Nigerian firms. Also, board diligence has a negative effect on its direct effect. However, its moderating role strengthens the diversity of ethnic and professional backgrounds while intensifying the negative effect of gender and nationality diversity. Also, larger firms tend to disclose less CSR information and prioritise compliance disclosure over substantive reporting. The study recommends creating policies mandating diversity thresholds, requiring more specific board disclosures and introducing governance provisions for sustainability-focused board deliberations.

Keywords: board diligence; CSRD; corporate social responsibility disclosure; board diversity; sustainability; ESG; economic; social and governance; emerging markets.

DOI: 10.1504/AJFA.2026.153114

American Journal of Finance and Accounting, 2026 Vol.9 No.2, pp.149 - 165

Received: 04 May 2025
Accepted: 15 Dec 2025
Published online: 22 Apr 2026 *

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