The week kicked off with the Social Enterprise Dialogue on Monday, 17th November 2025, at Spice Route Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event, themed “Purpose Meets Profit: Building Impact-Driven Enterprises for a Better Future,” brought together 60 participants, including ecosystem leaders, innovators, and social impact practitioners, to discuss how enterprises can integrate purpose into their business models without compromising profitability. The dialogue opened with a welcome address, setting the tone for a reflective and engaging conversation on the evolving role of social enterprises in Nigeria. Odunayo Sanya, Executive Director of MTN Foundation, delivered a compelling keynote address, emphasizing the importance of aligning business objectives with social good. She highlighted practical pathways through which enterprises can balance purpose and profit, stressing the need for sustainability, accountability, and long-term value creation.A robust panel session titled “Founders for Change: Building Enterprises That Solve Real Problems” followed, featuring accomplished entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders whose work demonstrates the power of innovation and social responsibility.
Panelists:
• Samuel Chibueze (Alumni Development Coordinator, Teach For Nigeria)
• Hannah Ayilaran-Omon, Founder, SDGforHer
• Aramide Kayode, Founder and Executive Director, Talent Mine Academy
• Moses Deshi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, TentaGrow Integrated Farms
Moderator: • Agnes Onyekwere-Disu, Lead, Project MEND
The discussion explored actionable strategies for building and scaling impact-driven enterprises—ranging from community engagement and gender inclusion to leveraging technology, sustainable business models, and responsible leadership. Panelists shared experiences navigating challenges such as funding constraints, operational sustainability, and creating measurable social impact. Dr. Tonna Eze, Head of Sustainable Banking, Fidelity Bank, spoke on SME packages available to entrepreneurs and highlighted Fidelity Bank’s commitment to supporting and empowering entrepreneurial growth. Participants gained valuable insights on designing businesses that address societal challenges while maintaining strong financial foundations. The session reinforced the importance of collaboration across sectors and highlighted the role of young entrepreneurs in shaping Nigeria’s social innovation landscape.