Concepts and Impact of CSR in Africa; A case study of Nigeria oil and gas industries companies (Chevron and Shell)

Oretunde Oluwaseyi Onabowale

Master's thesis

Abstract:

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become an increasingly important aspect of business operations in both developed and developing countries This research thesis proposal attempts to critically appraise the concept and impact of Corporate Social Responsibility performance of Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited(SPDC) and Chevron Nigeria Limited(CNL) in respective host communities Egbeme and Ogu communities. The desire to carry out the research came as a result of current developments in the oil industry especially as it relates to conflicts between host communities and oil prospective companies. Furthermore, the study employs a qualitative research methodology, using interviews, surveys, and document analysis to collect data from the host communities and the companies officials. The findings suggest that the performance of CSR by Shell and Chevron has a positive impact on reducing external conflicts in the host communities. However, the current CSR practices are deemed inadequate by the local communities, who argue for more inclusive and participatory approaches. Furthermore, non-performance of CSR has negative implications for the social license to operate, community relations, and overall business operations of the oil companies. The study concludes that the concept of CSR is context-specific and requires a more understanding of the social, political, and economic dynamics of the host communities. It recommends a shift towards more collaborative, inclusive, and culturally sensitive approaches to CSR, which can enhance the social legitimacy and long-term sustainability of the oil companies' operations in Nigeria and beyond and also that host communities should be adequately compensated in terms of development programmes initiatives, such as health care centre, scholarships, employment, sand filling, among others

Keywords

Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainability, Community, Multinational Companies

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 4. 4. 2023

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 29. 5. 2023
• Supervisor: doc. Ing. Irena Jindřichovská, CSc.
• Reader: Eva Jančíková, externi

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Economics and Management

Master programme:
Economics and Management