The Managing Partner of Alliance Law Firm, Mr. Uche Val Obi (SAN), has urged corporate organisations to promote the institutionalisation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in their operations.
He said it is important for corporate organisations to imbibe the culture, entrench it in their psyche and create a budget for it.
The lawyer made the submissions during the celebration of the firm’s 20th anniversary, the founder’s marriage silver jubilee and the fourth edition of its yearly lecture series.
This year’s lecture was titled, “Developing Nigeria Through Philanthropy”.
In his welcome address, Obi expressed delight at the turnout, adding that while planning for the yearly lecture, the firm decided to merge the other two events into one mega celebration.
He recalled that the first lecture held in 2017, pointing out that COVID-19 could not allow them to hold lectures in 2020 and 2021.
He also said that the choice of this year’s lecture could not have come at a better time considering the current situation, where citizens are gradually becoming poorer due to the state of the economy.
He called on wealthy Nigerians to help as much people as possible, because it leads to further development
Chairman of Julius Berger PLC, Mr Mutiu Sunmonu who chaired the event, said philanthropy is a natural law. According to him, embarking on philanthropy helps to develop the state.
He commended the staff and management of the firm for their courage to pursue excellence over the past 20 years.
The guest lecturer, Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi, who recalled his humble background, said generosity helps to elevate the people’s living condition, adding that he is always moved by the sight of school age children who are out of school, hence his reasons for building the school in Okija, Anambra state.
Dr. Obiejesi said that his love for being a philanthropist comes from the heart, and he called on the wealthy Nigerians to help people because they will be blessed too.
Highlights of the celebration include the presentation of awards to the longest serving staff and top clients who have been with the firm all these years.