The Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPL&CE) has held a one-day Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Forum for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), themed “Beyond Commerce: Building Our Lagos Tomorrow Today.” The event took place at Assbifi Hall, Alausa, Ikeja, and brought together corporate stakeholders, MSME owners, and policy experts to explore sustainable business-community partnerships.
Eko Hot News reports that the Lagos CSR forum MSMEs initiative was designed to create structured engagement between the Lagos State Government and the business community, without introducing new tax obligations. Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, explained that the forum provides a credible platform for the private sector to contribute to governance and policy shaping while aligning business growth with social impact.
The forum emphasized that structured CSR programs could qualify businesses for higher tax rebates, reinforcing the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for enterprise. Engr. Sholabomi Shasore, Permanent Secretary of OPL&CE, described MSMEs as “the heart of the economy,” highlighting their critical role in employment, food supply, and service provision across Lagos. She encouraged entrepreneurs to actively partner with the government in shaping sustainable development initiatives.
Technical sessions included presentations on CSR as a pillar of corporate governance by Mr. Kingsley Kezinibe, who stressed the importance of integrating social impact into corporate planning to build community trust and long-term stability. In addition, Ms. Oluwakemi Gbadebo of KPMG Advisory provided guidance on e-invoicing and the Electronic Fiscal System regime under the Nigeria Tax Reform Acts, 2025, helping MSMEs navigate compliance and operational efficiencies.
During interactive discussions, participants raised concerns about bureaucratic hurdles in partnering with government agencies and sought clarification on taxation and e-invoicing processes. The OPL&CE assured stakeholders that their feedback would inform inter-agency coordination and policy refinement.
The forum concluded with a call for sustained collaboration between the private sector and government. Participants were encouraged to view CSR not merely as a regulatory obligation but as a strategic investment in social cohesion, brand equity, and shared prosperity, reinforcing Lagos State’s commitment to inclusive growth and participatory governance.
