Corporate Social Responsibility as a Critical Tool in achieving Harmony with Host Communities: The Case of SEPLAT

Abstract

Sustainability is not just important for people and the planet but also for business success. Business experts will cite everything from strong loyalty programme to a personalised, mobile friendly shopping experience as keys to business success. These offerings are certainly important, but one thing that may tilt the scale in your favour is using your profits to do good in the world. This is where Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) comes in. CSR refers to a business practice that involves participating in initiatives that benefit society. This study therefore appraises the use of cooperate social responsibility in achieving harmonious coexistence with host communities with its ripple effect on the economy and corporate image of an organisation. The study adopts the qualitative analytical technique in evaluating the very essence of corporate social responsibility practice by corporate organisations as an off-shoot of public relations practice vis-à-vis its salient contributions to the health of any organisation. It goes without saying that CSR determines to a large extent the existence, profitability and sustainability of an organisation. The foregoing underscores the particular mention of SEPLAT Petroleum Development Company Plc and its CSR model as an acme of good corporate citizen. The study concludes among others that without CSR, an organisation may find it difficult to operate in a safe environment and may even go into extinction. It recommends among others that organisations operating in Nigeria should take a cue from SEPLAT Petroleum Company Plc in developing a CSR model in tandem with the needs and aspirations of their host communities with an aim to promoting mutual and harmonious relationship with them.

Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Critical tool, Harmony, Host Communities, SEPLAT Plc.