csrreporters 
In a strategic move to drive sustainable development in Nigeria’s Southwest, Odu’a Investment Company Limited has teamed up with the Nigeria Philanthropy Office (NPO). Their shared mission: to create one million jobs and accelerate the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through strategic philanthropy and impact investment.
Driving Sustainable Economic Growth
The partnership, coordinated under the Office of the Vice President, is set to provide philanthropic support for MSMEs, youth employment, and women-led businesses. Odu’a, a regional investment holding company with interests in real estate, agriculture, hospitality, and financial services, is channeling this effort through its social impact arm, the Odu’a Investment Foundation (OIF).
Together with NPO, they hosted the Southwest Philanthropy Summit in Lagos to brainstorm strategies that will reshape economic empowerment in the region.
Key Focus Areas of the Initiative
At the summit, stakeholders identified critical areas for collaboration:
- Public-private sector partnerships
- Innovative job creation models
- Social and impact investing
- Local and international funding
- Strategic philanthropy for sustainable development
According to Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of Odu’a Group, “We must adopt homegrown models that reflect our realities and replicate global successes.”
He emphasized that structured philanthropy, rooted in local innovation, can fuel scalable, sustainable change in the region and beyond.
Read also: SMEDAN Launches “GROW Nigerian” Strategy to Drive Sustainable MSME Growth
Scaling Impact Through Strategic Philanthropy
Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, Chairperson of the NPO, revealed that the office has already formed eight key partnerships and secured grants from over 100 companies.
She noted that their target is to mobilize $200 million in philanthropic capital, with a special focus on women entrepreneurs and MSMEs with high job creation potential.
“All our initiatives are proudly funded by Nigerian capital,” she stated, underscoring the domestic commitment to economic transformation.
Government Endorsement and Call to Action
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, highlighted the role of private philanthropy in complementing government efforts.
He called for a shift from random acts of charity to strategic, data-driven philanthropy that aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Philanthropy should be transparent, measurable, and impactful. It must empower communities sustainably,” he said.
A New Era of Impact-Driven Development
With a vision to create inclusive economic opportunities, this Odu’a-NPO partnership is poised to redefine philanthropy as a catalyst for sustainable growth. The Southwest is now set to become a model region for impact-driven investment, social change, and MSME empowerment in Nigeria.
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