Experts Urge Businesses to Integrate CSR as Core Strategy at MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference & Awards
Lagos served as the backdrop for a pivotal gathering of experts in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability during the first-ever MediaConsortium CSR Impacts and Excellence Conference and Awards.
Hosted at the esteemed Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Alausa, Ikeja, the conference brought together industry leaders, policymakers, sustainability advocates, and business professionals to discuss actionable strategies for driving growth through CSR and making a positive societal impact.
Under the theme “Driving a Sustainable Future: Leveraging CSR for Organizational Growth,” the event fostered deep discussions on how companies can integrate CSR into their core operations while recognizing those businesses making significant strides in social and environmental sustainability.
In her keynote speech, delivered on behalf of Ekuma Eze, Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Rite Foods, Olukemi Ogunsankin highlighted the pressing need for businesses to adopt sustainable practices. “As public concern for the environment grows, companies must adapt to remain relevant and responsible,” she stated. She further emphasized that investing in sustainable practices—like renewable energy and organic farming—can lead to long-term cost savings and enhanced profitability.
Dr. Femi Idowu-Adegoke, Special Adviser on One Health to the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare and President of the Lagos Recyclers Association, also shared insights with attendees. He stressed that CSR in Nigeria must shift from mere charity to a key component of business strategy. “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,” he noted.
Dr. Idowu-Adegoke urged organizations to move beyond superficial gestures and adopt structured, impactful CSR initiatives, emphasizing the private sector’s crucial role in addressing national challenges.
A dynamic panel discussion, moderated by Clara Okoro, former Chairman of the Brands Journalists Association of Nigeria (BJAN), delved into effective CSR implementation, the challenges faced by businesses, and the potential for greater impact.
In his opening remarks, Adetunji Faleye, Co-Publisher of MediaConsortium Magazine and one of the event’s organizers, set an inspiring tone: “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 concluded with an awards ceremony honoring organizations that have excelled 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 was a significant success, underscoring the necessity for intentional CSR strategies that not only benefit businesses but also contribute positively to society and the environment. Attendees left motivated to innovate, collaborate, and lead with purpose.