How Nigerian scholar in the US is contributing to global discussion on corporate purpose, CSR

As businesses around the world face increasing pressure to demonstrate a meaningful undertaking through social and environmental responsibility, many are rethinking their approach to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). While CSR initiatives have traditionally been part of corporate strategy, critics argue that many of these efforts appear superficial or disconnected from a company’s core mission.

Francis Akanbi, a corporate communication scholar and stakeholder engagement specialist, is at the forefront of this conversation, offering insights that bridge academia and industry. Currently pursuing a PhD in Public Relations at the University of Florida, Akanbi has built an academic career in researching corporate trust, corporate purpose, and CSR authenticity.

His extensive academic background, including two master’s degrees, one in Linguistics and another in Applied Communication Studies, positions him as an influential voice in the field.

At a recent corporate capacity-building session in Orlando on effective CSR management, Akanbi presented evidence of the merit and national importance of ensuring CSR initiatives are not just symbolic but truly impactful.

“CSR alone is no longer enough. the national interest requires consumers, investors, and employees receive more transparency and authenticity. When corporate purpose is well-defined and consistently communicated, it strengthens CSR initiatives and builds lasting trust,” he explained.

Akanbi pointed out that many companies struggle with CSR credibility because their initiatives appear disconnected from their broader business strategy.

“A company that promotes sustainability but fails to reform its supply chain practices will face skepticism. Corporate purpose ensures that CSR is not just about optics but about real, measurable impact,” he said.

Unlike traditional CSR, which is often viewed as an add-on, corporate purpose – an endeavor of national importance – embeds ethical, social, and environmental considerations into a company’s DNA. Businesses with a clear purpose integrate these values into decision-making at all levels—from product development to employee policies and investor relations.

“When companies articulate a strong purpose—whether it’s sustainability, social equity, or ethical governance—it becomes a guiding principle for everything they do,” Akanbi noted.

Beyond external reputation, Akanbi’s documented research and evidence highlights the internal benefits of corporate purpose, particularly in employee motivation and retention.

The national importance, however, of workforce development is evident when employees want to work for companies that stand for something meaningful. When corporate purpose is well-defined and embedded into CSR initiatives, it fosters a sense of belonging and motivation among staff,” he explained.

This shift is particularly relevant in today’s workforce, where millennials and Gen Z increasingly seek purpose-driven careers. evidence-based studies suggest that employees who perceive their company’s mission as genuine are more likely to be engaged, productive, and committed to long-term success.

In addition to shaping consumer and employee expectations, the national importance of corporate purpose is gaining prominence among investors, who are increasingly considering Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria in their decision-making.

“Investors are no longer just looking at financial performance; they want to see how companies are making a positive impact on society. Purpose-driven businesses are better positioned to meet these expectations,” Akanbi noted.

This growing emphasis on sustainable and socially responsible business practices also aligns with U.S. national interests, particularly in the areas of equitable workforce policies and corporate accountability. The US government’s focus on ESG policies, corporate transparency, and sustainability reporting further underscores the national importance of Akanbi’s research.

By advancing scholarship in corporate governance, stakeholder engagement, and public trust, Akanbi contributes to these policy discussions, helping businesses navigate regulatory expectations while fostering stronger stakeholder relationships. His well-documented research provides insights into how companies can align with federal priorities, ensuring they remain competitive in an evolving economic landscape. Despite the advantages of corporate purpose, Akanbi warns that some businesses still struggle with authenticity in their mission and implementation.

“It’s not enough to craft a compelling mission statement. Corporate purpose must be reflected in every aspect of a company’s operations, from leadership decisions to community engagement,” he emphasized.

He advocates for transparency and accountability, urging companies to measure and report their impact in tangible ways.

“Companies must go beyond feel-good campaigns and demonstrate real results. Stakeholders want to see data, progress reports, and genuine commitments—not just promises,” he said.

As a Nigerian scholar making a mark in the U.S., Akanbi’s work is not only influencing academic thought but also shaping real-world corporate strategies. His long-term career goal is to bridge research and practice, equipping organizations with the knowledge needed to navigate corporate trust, social responsibility, and stakeholder engagement in a rapidly changing world.

“Businesses must continuously reassess and refine their purpose to remain relevant. Purpose-driven companies adapt to changing societal needs while staying true to their core values,” he explained.

In an era where corporate trust is fragile and public expectations are high, aligning corporate purpose with CSR offers a clear path forward. Akanbi urges businesses to see this shift not as a trend but as a long-term transformation.

“It’s not enough to craft a compelling mission statement. Corporate purpose, an endeavor of national importance must be reflected in every aspect of a company’s operations, from leadership decisions to community engagement,” he emphasized.

He advocates for transparency and accountability, urging companies to measure and report their impact in tangible ways.

“Companies must go beyond feel-good campaigns and demonstrate real results. Stakeholders want to see data, progress reports, and genuine commitments—not just promises,” he said.

As a Nigerian scholar well-positioned to advance the field in the U.S., Akanbi’s work is not only influencing academic thought but also shaping real-world corporate strategies. His long-term career goal is to bridge research and practice, equipping organizations with the knowledge needed to navigate corporate trust, social responsibility, and stakeholder engagement in a rapidly changing world.

In an era where corporate trust is fragile and public expectations are high, aligning corporate purpose with CSR offers A clear path forward. Akanbi urges businesses to see this shift not as a trend but as an endeavor of substantial merit and national importance that will shape the future of business.