Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has increasingly become a significant aspect of business operations, with organizations recognizing the importance of integrating social and environmental concerns in their strategies. This study aims to investigate the impact of CSR on organizational performance, focusing on Zenith Bank Nigeria Plc. The research will utilize a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of financial performance data with qualitative data from interviews and surveys. The study will explore how Zenith Bank's CSR initiatives have influenced various aspects of organizational performance, such as financial outcomes, reputation, employee engagement, and customer loyalty. By examining both financial indicators and stakeholders' perceptions, the research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between CSR and organizational performance. The findings of this study are expected to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on CSR and organizational performance, particularly in the context of the banking sector in Nigeria. The results will offer insights into the specific ways in which CSR practices can impact different dimensions of organizational performance and provide practical recommendations for managers seeking to enhance their company's performance through CSR initiatives. Overall, this research aims to shed light on the role of CSR in driving organizational success, with a focus on Zenith Bank Nigeria Plc. By examining the link between CSR activities and organizational performance, the study will provide valuable insights for both academics and practitioners interested in understanding how socially responsible practices can create value for businesses and society as a whole.

Thesis Overview

  STATEMENT OF PROBLEM
Most organizations do not see reason in given back to the society a little of their profit. Hence, some organizations including banks see no reason why they should involve themselves in Corporate Social Responsibility. This has created a problem in the environment where they operate, because many banks see the programme of CSR as an onerous task.
Taking deposits, granting loans and providing complementary services which could and would yield profitable returns are the core business of banks in whatever kinds of countries, whatever kinds of culture, and whatever kinds of business environments. However, the trend in social responsibility is increasingly adopted by banks to respond to the need of the society within which it operates and to be responsible for meeting the expectations of their customers and other stakeholders in a socially responsible way. Thus, perceived drawbacks on this practice could be on the amount of capital that has to be devoted in solving society’s needs and meeting up with their expectations.
Again, this trend may be viewed as a drift from the main focus of banks as profit making institutions to charitable organizations. However, there is need to battle with this wrong notion and orientation to accepting CSR programs as a necessity and an unavoidable option to modern day Banks knowing that they are not operating in a vacuum but within the society and as such should reciprocate by meeting some of her expectations.

1.3     OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
          The general objective of this research work is to determine the Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Organizational Performance of Zenith Bank Nigeria Plc. However other specific objectives are to;

1.4     RESEARCH QUESTIONS
          This work is guided by the following research questions: