CSR REPORTERS…Amplifying Africa's Voice for Social Impact and Sustainability

In a bid to tackle Ibadan’s growing waste management crisis and create economic opportunities for disadvantaged youths, Tola Adeoye, the founder of Adto Recycling and a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, has launched a transformative initiative aimed at training young people in waste management and recycling. With Ibadan’s population exceeding three million, the city’s waste disposal systems are under severe strain, leading to mounting environmental and public health hazards. Determined to turn this challenge into an opportunity, Adeoye embarked on a mission to educate and empower young people, equipping them with practical skills, environmental awareness, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the recycling sector. Through community-driven workshops and awareness campaigns, Adeoye has trained over 250 youths across Ibadan in key areas of sustainable waste management, including: ✅ Waste segregation for efficient recycling ✅ Composting to reduce organic waste ✅ Plastic waste recycling for repurposing materials ✅ Sustainable disposal techniques to minimize pollution By providing hands-on training, Adeoye ensures that participants not only understand the urgency of proper waste management but also gain the necessary expertise to implement practical, scalable solutions in their communities Waste Into Wealth

natnudO Foods a division of Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Limited , has officially launched the natnuPreneur Seller Scheme Hub & Spoke Model in Edo State. This initiative, introduced in partnership with the Office of the Edo State First Lady and Heifer International aims to empower agripreneurs and smallholder farmers while improving access to affordable animal protein. The scheme features a Hub and Spoke distribution model designed to enhance local food supply chains. Each Hub is equipped with solar-powered freezers for product storage and distribution, while attached Spokes—comprising small vendors—are provided with push carts and parasols for daily sales. This model not only strengthens small businesses but also enhances local animal protein availability in Edo State. The unveiling ceremony took place at the natnudO Foods Processing Plant along Presco Road in the Obayanto community, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, 30th January 2025. During the event, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, handed over the empowerment equipment—including solar-powered freezers and insulated carts—to the first batch of beneficiaries, mostly women. She encouraged them to maximize this opportunity to boost animal protein supply, improve earnings, and enhance their overall standard of living. Mrs. Anani also commended the collaboration between natnudO Foods, the Edo State Government, and Heifer International, emphasizing the collective vision to empower women and young entrepreneurs. “Let us build an ecosystem that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Together, we can create a brighter future for our people,” she stated. Speaking at the event, Yunusa Alaba Deputy Head of Business for natnudO Foods, who represented Dr. Oduntan, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. For more on this and other related articles, please visit csrreporters.com and follow CSR Reporters on this channel!

A life-changing scholarship from OPay a leading financial services provider, has enabled Ayuba Bello, a student at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), to pursue his dream of higher education—without the heartbreaking sacrifice of his family’s farmland. In a statement on Sunday, OPay reaffirmed its commitment to transforming lives through its scholarship initiative, which not only covers tuition fees but also provides additional resources to help students thrive academically and personally. For Ayuba, gaining admission to the prestigious ABU Zaria was the realization of a lifelong dream. However, financial constraints nearly derailed his education. Born into a family of subsistence farmers, the 27-year-old is one of ten children. Last year, faced with the harsh reality of tuition costs, his family’s only option was to sell their farmland—their primary source of livelihood. “Selling the land would have left me with lifelong guilt,” Ayuba shared. “I didn’t want my education to come at the cost of my family’s survival.” Thankfully, OPay’s scholarship program provided a timely intervention, ensuring Ayuba’s education while preserving his family’s means of sustenance. The scholarship’s benefits extended far beyond Ayuba alone. His father expressed gratitude, revealing how the continued use of their farmland allowed them to sustain the household. “With last year’s harvest, we were able to sell enough produce to meet other family needs. OPay’s scholarship didn’t just help Ayuba; it supported our entire family,” he said. According to a 2021 Statista report, a staggering 41% of students in upper secondary education are out of school due to financial barriers. With rising inflation, the cost of education has nearly doubled over the past five years, making initiatives like OPay’s scholarship a vital lifeline for many. Elizabeth Wang Executive Director, OPay Board & Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the company’s dedication to bridging the financial gap in education. “Ayuba Bello’s story is a powerful example of how access to education can transform lives,” Wang stated. “OPay is committed to ensuring that no talented student has to choose between their dreams and their family’s livelihood.” Inspired by his opportunity, Ayuba is already planning ways to give back. As a political science student, he hopes to use his education to enhance agricultural practices in his community. “This scholarship isn’t just for me; it’s a chance to uplift others,” he affirmed. Visit: csrreporters.com to read full story and many other inspiring stories about CSR from organisations across Africa.

Nigeria, a nation abundantly blessed with vast natural resources, immense human capital, and an elite class of stupendously wealthy individuals, paradoxically holds the grim title of the poverty capital of the world. This is not just a contradiction; it is a tragedy, a blight on the conscience of leadership, and an indictment of governance at all levels. The irony is glaring, the pain is palpable, and the urgency for reform cannot be overstated. How did we get here? How does a country that boasts of oil wealth, fertile lands, thriving industries, and a vibrant youth population remain shackled by the chains of poverty? The answer is glaring: mismanagement, corruption, and a gross failure to judiciously deploy the commonwealth of the nation for the good of its people. Wealth, which should be a tool for development and societal upliftment, has been hoarded by a privileged few while millions languish in squalor, struggling to afford basic needs like food, shelter, healthcare, and education. The reality is heartbreaking. Across Nigeria, families go to bed hungry despite living in a land teeming with agricultural potential. Graduates roam the streets unemployed despite a labor market that should be thriving with opportunities. Hospitals are overcrowded and under-equipped, forcing many to seek medical care abroad or resign themselves to substandard treatment. Public schools are in disrepair, and the children who should be the leaders of tomorrow are left without access to quality education. This is not just a systemic failure; it is a crime against humanity. The sight of impoverished children scavenging for food on the streets of a country with billionaires flying private jets is nothing short of a moral abomination. The stark contrast between opulence and destitution in Nigeria is not merely an economic issue; it is a leadership crisis, an ethical failure, and a betrayal of the sacred duty of governance. The gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, exacerbating social unrest, insecurity, and a growing sense of hopelessness among the populace. We must demand more from those in power. It is time for government at all levels—federal, state, and local—to rise above selfish interests and commit to real, transformative change. The resources of Nigeria must no longer serve as the private estate of a privileged few but must be equitably distributed to provide every citizen with a fair chance at a dignified life. Government budgets must be transparent, free from embezzlement and misappropriation. Public officers must be held accountable for the responsibilities they have sworn to uphold. Education must be a right, not a privilege. The government must invest heavily in public schools, equip teachers with the necessary tools, and ensure that children, irrespective of their background, have access to quality education. A nation that neglects its youth is setting itself up for failure. Read more at csrreporters.com

BUA Group has commenced the development of a 700-ton-per-day (700TPD), 45mmscf Mini-LNG Plant with a groundbreaking ceremony held today at Ajaokuta, Kogi State. Present at the event is the Founder/Executive Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu with the Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo; NNPC Limited Board Chairman, Chief Pius Akinyelure; GCEO NNPC, Mele Kyari; Authority Executive of NMDPRA, Engr. Farook Ahmed and other eminent dignitaries including various stakeholders. Speaking at the event, the Founder/Executive Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu said in his speech: “This LNG plant, which we are doing the groundbreaking today, also embodies that spirit. Upon completion, it will ensure that BUA’s captive power plants are provided with much-needed gas with limited supply downtime, thus enhancing our production and manufacturing capacity while positioning BUA to be fully integrated into the value chain of our energy supply operations”. He stated that the project is a win-win for Nigeria and is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s vision and promoting gas usage for cleaner energy. NNPC will provide critical gas feedstock for a 10% stake in the plant, and BUA will provide 100% financing while driving execution. This is a testament that public-private partnerships under the right government policies can deliver transformative results. The BUA LNG plant will ensure cost efficiency, supply stability, and sustainability for BUA’s operations while reinforcing Nigeria’s industrial future. Covering a land area of about 16 hectares, it will primarily serve BUA’s captive power plants across its manufacturing businesses in Nigeria and provide gas for other uses within the country. This is geared towards operational efficiency in alignment with the national energy transition initiative. The GCEO NNPC, Mele K. Kyari, in his speech stated that it is rightly timed to have these 5 mini-LNG plants in Kogi State of which BUA LNG is one, considering its strategic location at the crossroads of Nigeria’s North and South, in Ajaokuta, Kogi State. The signing ceremony for the project, which held within the week at NGML headquarters in Abuja, was attended by BUA’s Group Executive Director, Kabiru Rabiu, Chief Legal Officer, Oluseye Alayande, and NGML’s leadership team led by Justin Ezeala.

A Step Towards a Fitter, Stronger, and More United Nigeria Kudos to the Inspector General of Police for his visionary leadership in building a state-of-the-art fitness center for the Nigeria Police in Abuja! This isn’t just an investment in the well-being of our officers—it’s a powerful statement that the police and the people are one. By opening this facility to the public, the IGP has shown a deep commitment to community engagement, trust, and unity. A fit police force is a more effective one, and a shared space for fitness fosters stronger bonds between law enforcement and the citizens they serve. This is leadership in action—leading with purpose, innovation, and heart. A healthier force, a healthier nation! #Leadership #Innovation #Community #NigeriaPolice #FitnessForAll

LG Electronics has taken a bold step in advancing sustainability by commissioning the University of Benin first-ever solar-powered borehole. Officially inaugurated in January 2025, this innovative project provides clean, uninterrupted water to thousands of students and staff while promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The solar-powered borehole eliminates reliance on the national grid, lowering utility costs and aligning with global sustainability goals. The inauguration ceremony brought together LG representatives, university officials, student leaders, and hostel residents, all celebrating the milestone achievement. Paul Mba. (MBA, Animn, Acipmn, CIM Affiliate) Corporate Marketing Manager at LG Electronics Home Appliances emphasized the company’s unwavering dedication to corporate social responsibility during the event. “At LG Electronics, our mission is to improve lives through technology. This solar-powered borehole is more than a water source—it’s a symbol of how renewable energy can meet essential human needs while driving sustainability. We are proud to partner with UNIBEN on this impactful initiative,” Mba stated. Mba also encouraged the university community to ensure proper maintenance of the facility, highlighting LG’s commitment to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions for educational institutions across Nigeria. Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of UNIBEN, Prof. Edoba Omoregie, Prof. Fred Ekhaise, Chairman of the Security Committee, expressed gratitude for LG’s thoughtful intervention. “This project is a transformative milestone for the University of Benin. Reliable access to clean water is essential for both academic excellence and residential life. By integrating solar energy, this initiative also reinforces the importance of environmental responsibility. We deeply appreciate LG Electronics for this invaluable contribution,” Prof. Ekhaise remarked. To read more on this and other related news, follow us and also visit: csrreporters.com

Hybrid Group a leading provider of health, safety, environment, and sustainability (HSES) training in West Africa, has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting workplace safety and sustainable practices with the launch of its 2025 Interactive Training Calendar. This innovative digital tool is designed to provide seamless access to globally recognized professional development courses and certifications, making safety and sustainability training more accessible than ever. Dapo Omolade Principal Consultant and CEO of Hybrid Group, emphasized the transformative impact of the new calendar. “Our mission is to empower individuals and organizations to create safer, more sustainable work environments. By simplifying access to our globally accredited training programs, we’re equipping professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to implement effective safety practices,” Omolade stated. For more on this and other related stories, visit: csrrporters.com

Water.org has awarded a $200,000 grant to LAPO Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO MfB) to advance its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives in Nigeria. This collaboration is set to empower underserved communities by improving access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene solutions, fostering healthier and more sustainable living conditions. Building on the successes of its WASH loan adoption program across 56 groups in Kano and Jigawa states, LAPO MfB plans to scale the WASH program across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The initiative will focus on delivering innovative financial solutions as part of the bank’s social impact strategic move. The #WaterCredit program will adopt a holistic approach, targeting diverse populations with a particular focus on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Guided by market research, LAPO MfB will develop tailored financial products delivered through conventional branch networks and digital channels. By the program’s conclusion in December 2027, the bank aims to provide WASH financing solutions to 12,000 households and 500 SMEs. In a statement, Oluremi Olatunji Akande rpa. MNIPR. MCIB. MDSS , Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at LAPO Microfinance Bank, added, “We are thrilled to receive this generous grant from Water.org, which marks a significant milestone in our efforts to provide sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions to underserved communities across Nigeria. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to uplift lives and foster socio-economic development through innovative financial services.” Water.org’s extensive experience in empowering communities with access to affordable water and sanitation solutions will be pivotal to the success of this partnership. Having positively impacted over 73 million people worldwide, Water.org’sinnovative approach ensures lasting change, and this collaboration with LAPO MfB is a testament to their commitment to driving meaningful transformation. To read more about this and other inspiring stories, visit: csrreporters.com

As the world pauses to commemorate the end of one of the darkest chapters in human history—the Holocaust—we are reminded of the resilience of humanity and the unyielding commitment to ensure such atrocities never recur. The Holocaust, orchestrated by Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime, resulted in the murder of six million Jews alongside millions of others who were deemed “unfit” to exist. The scars left by this genocide are etched deeply in the fabric of human history, serving as an enduring reminder of the perils of unchecked hatred and totalitarianism. In a historic and deeply moving gesture, King Charles III recently visited former Nazi concentration camps, where millions were detained, tortured, and killed during World War II. This visit underscores the critical importance of remembering and honoring the victims of the Holocaust while ensuring future generations learn from this harrowing past. King Charles’ presence at these sites of immense suffering is a powerful statement of solidarity and a call for humanity to reject bigotry, racism, and violence in all its forms. His Majesty’s visit serves as a poignant reminder that the lessons of the Holocaust are as relevant today as they were 80 years ago. The rise of hate speech, xenophobia, and the glorification of authoritarianism in some corners of the world demands vigilance. History has taught us that silence in the face of evil is complicity. As global citizens, we must remain alert to any leader or ideology that seeks to replicate the horrors of that era. The mantra “Never Again” must not just be a phrase; it must be a collective pledge. The international community—from world leaders to ordinary individuals—bears the responsibility of safeguarding peace and promoting unity. The memory of the Holocaust stands as a testament to the catastrophic consequences of division and hate. It is a stark warning of the devastating outcomes when prejudice is allowed to flourish unchecked. Upholding peace is not merely a moral imperative; it is the foundation upon which prosperity for all can be built.