Two scholarly authors, Dr. Wole Adamolekun and Prof. Rotimi Olatunji have collaboratively launched a transformational book, titled “Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development”. The book was formally launched at the Metropolitan Club Lagos, on Wednesday, November 29, 2023,
The event, characterized by insightful discussions with the authors, provided attendees with a unique opportunity to delve into the inspiration behind their collaboration and the key themes explored in the masterpiece.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Wole Adamolekun addressed the complex economic, social, and environmental expectations of stakeholders in the context of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development. He emphasized the inadequacy of governments’ efforts to meet basic needs, underscoring the vital role of businesses in complementing these efforts through sustained CSR projects.
“Social responsibility can achieve greater impact through collaboration and partnerships. We are offering our expertise as a bridge for all stakeholders committed to building a better and more inclusive society. This exercise will also deepen research and scholarship that respond to the new global realities,” he said.
Also speaking during the launch, co-author Prof. Rotimi Olatunji shared his perspective on the aim of the book launch, calling for a collective commitment to social responsibility for the betterment of the economy. He challenged the notion that substantial financial resources are a prerequisite for social responsibility, asserting that organizations can integrate it into their expenditures, reducing tax burdens.
“In the pages of ‘Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development,’ we strive to ignite a collective spark for positive change—a call to action for every reader to play a role in shaping a sustainable future,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Rotimi Olatunji conveyed appreciation to all participants for gracing the occasion, particularly acknowledging the Chairman of the event and all distinguished guests of honour. He concluded by expressing, “It is when individuals, corporate organisations, non-governmental organisations, philanthropists and most of all, governments are socially responsible that our society can experience sustainable development”.
The book reviewer Lanre Arogundade, a renowned journalist, media development and strategic communication specialist and Executive Director of International Press Centre, (IPC), stated that “The book Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development offers an enchanting repertoire of knowledge on the subject matter it seeks to address. Such is the depth of the publication that it can be called some other alternate names to further highlight its essence”.
Dr. Wole Adamolekun and Prof. Rotimi Olatunji, who are both recognized sustainable development specialists, have given a wealth of expertise and a fresh perspective to the subject, making their collaboration a must-read for everyone interested in the impact of social responsibility and sustainable development.
Distinguished personalities from all sectors, including Mr. Lanre Bajulaiye, a council member of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Chief Yomi Badejo-Okusanya, the lead partner at CMC Connect LLP and the former president of the Africa Public Relations Association (APRA), Mrs. Thelma Okoh, another NIPR council member, and other distinguished guests graced the occasion.
The event also had in attendance Ken Egbas, the founder of the SERAs awards/TruCSR, and Mr. Olukayode Ogunleye, a representative from Shell plc. These renowned individuals contributed significantly to the event by sharing their ideas and insights from their various disciplines and industries.
