Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the metaverse: enhancing community engagement for Nigerian firms

The study explores CSR in the Metaverse and community engage. The study acknowledged that CSR has progressed beyond traditional patronage to become a tactical tool for businesses looking for sustainable growth and community engagement. This is predicated due to the introduction of Metaverse technology, which is a virtual, immersive digital space technology. The study made use of the stakeholder theory and social contract theory. It was noted that CSR in the Metaverse for community engagement presents firms with a transformative method to community engagement, enabling the firms to foster deeper connectivity with the community, which drive social impact, and promote inclusivity in the virtual spaces. The study concluded that CSR in the Metaverse has offered opportunities and challenges for Nigerian firms. Thus, Metaverse presents an advanced digital space technology where businesses can engage with all stakeholders, to foster social impact, and drive sustainable development amongst stakeholders. However, the successful implementation of CSR in this virtual environment requires fundamental key challenges such as digital availability, ethical apprehensions, and regulatory gaps. It was recommended in the study that Nigerian firms should investment in digital inclusion, transparent data practices, and policy advocacy to serve as actionable strategies for firms that are interested in navigating the difficulties of CSR in virtual environments.