Top ESG voices to drive sustainability agenda at MediaConsortium CSR Awards 2026

Stanley Ihedigbo

Top Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) experts and industry leaders will converge in Lagos on May 15, 2026, as MediaConsortium hosts the second edition of its CSR Impact and Excellence Conference and Awards, a high-level gathering aimed at redefining corporate success through sustainability, ethical governance, and measurable social impact.

On Friday, May 15, 2026, MediaConsortium will host the second edition of its CSR Impact and Excellence Conference and Awards, bringing together thought leaders, corporate executives, policymakers, and sustainability advocates to explore new pathways for responsible business practices in Nigeria.

With the theme, “Beyond Profit: Redefining Success Through CSR and Sustainability,” the conference seeks to challenge organisations to rethink traditional metrics of success by placing greater emphasis on environmental stewardship, community impact, and ethical governance.

According to the organisers, the 2026 edition is designed to spark a shift from viewing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a peripheral activity to embracing it as a strategic imperative.

They noted that modern consumers, investors, and regulators are increasingly demanding accountability, transparency, and measurable impact from businesses.

The conference will feature a lineup of distinguished speakers, headlined by respected Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) experts, Tosin Leye-Odeyemi and Adewole Lawal. Both speakers are expected to deliver keynote addresses that will set the tone for in-depth panel discussions focused on integrating sustainability into core business operations.

“We are at a critical juncture where CSR is no longer optional. It has become a key driver of long-term value creation,” the organisers stated.

“Our speakers will provide insights into how organisations can align profitability with purpose while maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly changing market.”

A major highlight of the event will be the CSR Impact and Excellence Awards, which aim to recognise organisations and individuals who have made significant contributions to social development and environmental sustainability over the past year.

Building on the success of its maiden edition, the awards will spotlight innovation across several critical sectors, including renewable energy initiatives, sustainable business development, organic farming and food security, as well as wellness and community health.

Last year’s ceremony saw leading companies such as Sifax Group, PZ Wilmar, Seplat, and Stanbic IBTC receive accolades for their outstanding contributions to community development and environmental stewardship, setting a high benchmark for this year’s nominees.

Organisers expressed optimism that the 2026 edition will attract a broader spectrum of participants and inspire more organisations to adopt impactful CSR strategies that go beyond philanthropy.

They emphasised that Nigeria’s current socio-economic realities make it imperative for businesses to play a more active role in addressing societal challenges.

By showcasing practical success stories and scalable models, the conference aims to provide both large corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with actionable insights for achieving sustainable growth.

With a diverse audience expected, including industry leaders, sustainability professionals, academics, and media practitioners, the event is poised to catalyze redefining corporate success in Nigeria.

As anticipation builds, stakeholders agree that the conference represents more than just another industry gathering; it is a platform for shaping the future of responsible business and driving a collective commitment to sustainable development.