Birch and Lily, a local cleaning firm has stressed on the importance of grassroot development.

The firm, who organised an initiative, in partnership with an expert in operation management,  Kingsley Ishiguzo, noted that the aim is to encourage businesses that started in slums and local communities to partake in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as it should not be limited to only large organisations.

Ishiguzo urged such firms to strive for operational excellence even though the the business environment in the nation is unfavourable.

“In Nigeria, starting a business is not an easy task, especially with the unfriendly business environment but we have to strive to achieve operational excellence and show the success stories to these kids out here that they can achieve excellence in whatever they set out to do. I have seen what failure looks like and I want to make sure many kids out here don’t fail so I decided to jump on the opportunity when Birch and Lily shared the idea with me,” he said.

Manager, Birch and Lily, Adeyemi Adeniran, emphasised that local firms shouldn’t rely on the offerings or activities of top organisations alone.

“In 2021, Nigerian banks donated a sum of 24.1 billion to CSR. In as much as this is a huge sum, we don’t have to rely on top corporate organisations as change and development start with us,” he said.

He further stated “Kingsley has an eye for helping people and it was easy to get on this project. We’re nothing without our community,” he said

The initiative birthed the Kingsley Ishiguzo Cup aimed at providing an avenue for young children/footballers to chase their dream.

The players were advised to maintain focus, consistency, passion, avoid bad gangs and never forget their roots.

The three days event had four teams play for the grand prize at Ojoniyun football pitch located in Ebute Metta area of Lagos state.

Super Soccer FC emerged winner of the match  while Living Legend came second place. The players received cash prizes and trophies.
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