By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
Lagos played host to a landmark gathering of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability experts at the inaugural MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference and Awards.
Held at the prestigious Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the event convened industry leaders, policymakers, and sustainability advocates to explore strategies for driving organizational growth through CSR and creating positive societal impact.
The conference, themed “Driving a Sustainable Future: Leveraging CSR for Organizational Growth,” highlighted the importance of integrating CSR into core business operations. Speakers emphasized the need for businesses to adopt sustainable practices, stating long-term benefits for both the environment and profitability.
Olukemi Ogunsankin, delivering the keynote speech on behalf of Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods, stressed the importance of adapting to growing environmental concerns. “As public concern for the environment grows, companies must adapt to remain relevant and responsible.” She also highlighted the benefits of sustainable practices like renewable energy and organic farming.
Dr. Femi Idowu-Adegoke, Special Adviser on One Health and President of the Lagos Recyclers Association, emphasized that CSR in Nigeria should be a core business strategy, not just charity. He said, “In a country facing ongoing socio-economic and environmental challenges, businesses that weave CSR into their operations can gain competitive advantages, build stakeholder trust, and achieve sustainable profitability.”
A dynamic panel discussion, moderated by Clara Okoro, former Chairman of the Brands Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), explored effective CSR implementation, challenges, and potential impact. Adetunji Faleye, Co-Publisher of MediaConsortium Magazine, set the tone for the event. He said, “I am delighted to welcome you all to the MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference 2025. CSR has evolved from a mere buzzword to a critical commitment that forward-looking organizations must adopt to make a meaningful difference.”
The conference culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing organizations that have made significant strides in CSR:
– PZ Wilmar: Best CSR Initiative in Palm Oil Production
– Iron Resources Limited: Sustainable Business Award
– Capacious Foods: Outstanding CSR Initiative in Organic Farming
– Simba Group: Outstanding CSR Initiative in Renewable Energy
– Sifax Group: Outstanding CSR Initiative in Community Development
The event concluded on a high note, with attendees motivated to drive innovation, collaboration, and purposeful leadership in their CSR endeavors.
