Corporate Social Responsibility Dimensions and Societal Loyalty of Selected Upstream Oil and Gas Companies in Nigeria

The extraction and production activities associated with the upstream oil and gas sector in Nigeria have been linked to significant environmental degradation. Practices such as oil spills, gas flaring, and deforestation have led to pollution of land, water bodies, and the atmosphere. This degradation not only poses risks to ecosystems and biodiversity but also threatens the health and livelihoods of local communities who depend on these natural resources for sustenance. Hence, this study examined the effect of corporate social responsibility dimensions on societal loyalty in the Nigerian upstream oil and gas businesses. The study adopted survey research design. The population of the study comprised 13, 443 regular employees of eight O&G firms' companies in Nigeria. The sample size of 748 was determined using Cochran's sample size formula (1977) and simple random sampling technique was adopted in selecting respondents. A structured, adapted and validated questionnaire was administered. Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient for the constructs ranging from 0.630 to 0.910. The response rate was 91.0%. The research hypotheses were tested using multiple regression statistics. The findings revealed that corporate social responsibility dimensions had no significant effect on societal loyalty (Adj. R2=0.11, F(2. 671)= 1.96, p > 0.05), corporate (Adj. R2=.001, F(2. 671)= 1.292, p > 0.05). The study concludes that CSR dimensions do not have a substantial influence on societal loyalty, business image, and competitiveness, suggesting the need for further investigation into the complex connection between CSR practices and organisational results. Therefore, the study recommends that to improve loyalty, Oil and Gas firms should conduct stakeholder evaluations, customize CSR programs, participate in community outreach, philanthropy projects, and environmental conservation efforts. Transparent communication and stakeholder involvement are crucial for trust and confidence.