Deji Somoye Charts Unconventional Path to Community Development Through Faith-Based Investments

• Deji Somoye, CEO of SG Holdings, pioneers a faith-based approach to corporate social responsibility by strategically investing in religious institutions
• His decade-long interventions include building church auditoriums, donating worship essentials, and funding community-centered infrastructure like e-libraries
• Somoye blends spiritual and economic empowerment by hosting business summits and supporting faith communities to foster moral values and sustainable development

In an era where corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Nigeria is largely defined by investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, one business leader is taking a road less traveled — with far-reaching impact.

Mr. Deji Somoye, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SG Holdings Limited, is quietly transforming lives and communities through strategic investments in faith-based organizations, leveraging the influence of religion as a powerful force for societal development.

Mr. Somoye’s philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of the central role that religion plays in shaping personal values, emotional resilience, and community cohesion in Nigeria. “At SG Holdings, we believe spiritual growth goes hand-in-hand with national development,” he said. “A society built on strong moral foundations is better equipped to progress economically and socially. By supporting our faith communities, we are investing in the very fabric of our society.”

His commitment to this vision began in 2012, when he constructed and donated a church auditorium to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Ekiti Village, Kobape, Ogun State — a project that marked the beginning of a long-standing legacy of faith-based philanthropy.

A decade later, in 2022, Mr. Somoye unveiled one of his most iconic projects: the Venerable Jacob Olabode Farombi Memorial Anglican Church in Olorunsogo, Ojere, Abeokuta. Complete with a furnished vicarage and modern sanitation facilities, the church’s dedication ceremony drew bishops, priests, and dignitaries, reflecting the broad appreciation of his unconventional CSR approach.

His philanthropic reach has since extended to numerous churches across Ogun State. He has donated 27KVA soundproof generators, musical instruments, and hymn books to churches including Christ Anglican Church, Ijemo; African Church Cathedral, Idi-Ape; and others. In 2018, he sponsored the extension of the chancel at Christ Anglican Church, Ijemo, and in 2023, he facilitated a full repainting and refurnishing of its auditorium and vicarage.

His generosity also reached the Unfailing Jesus Evangelical Ministry in Ita-Bayinbo, Ijemo, which received ₦2 million in 2016 for its development. But perhaps his most symbolic contribution came in the form of a trumpet-style processional cross — valued at $18,000 — donated to Christ Anglican Church, Ijemo. The design, reminiscent of biblical trumpets, represents a call to worship and signifies the fusion of faith and music. “It is my hope that this cross will enrich our worship experience and draw us closer to God through music and reverence,” he said.

Yet, Mr. Somoye’s commitment goes beyond infrastructure and aesthetics. In 2022, during the 46th anniversary of the Anglican Diocese, he organized a Business Summit aimed at empowering clergymen and churchgoers with entrepreneurial knowledge. Acting as lead resource person, he offered insights into wealth creation and financial independence — demonstrating a unique blend of spiritual and economic empowerment.

Furthering his mission, he also donated a state-of-the-art E-Library and Youth Development Centre to the Egba West Diocese of the Anglican Communion. Situated within the diocesan premises, the centre serves as a hub for digital literacy and youth engagement, creating an enduring resource accessible to the wider community.

Through his strategic and deeply personal CSR initiatives, Mr. Somoye has redefined what it means to invest in society. His efforts underscore that corporate giving can be sacred and sustainable, grounded in values that transcend religious walls to uplift entire communities.

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Source: Legit.ng