The Federal Government of Nigeria is actively pursuing reforms to revitalize the nation’s cooperative sector, aiming to bolster economic growth, enhance social cohesion, and reduce poverty.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Abdullahi, revealed this during a technical strategy session on the Cooperative Reform Programme held in Abuja on Wednesday.
Abdullahi stressed the cooperative sector’s role in strengthening food and nutrition security. He also recognized challenges like weak governance, outdated regulations, and inadequate funding that have hindered its growth.
He highlighted major challenges in the cooperative sector, including weak governance, outdated laws, and insufficient funding.
“However, we are also aware of the challenges that have hindered its growth, including weak governance, outdated laws and inadequate funding.
“Our mission is to chart a new course for the Cooperative sector, one that is built on the principles of transparency, accountability and inclusivity.
“We aim to create an enabling environment that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation,” he stated.
Abdullahi identified key reform priorities, including reviewing the final report of the ministerial technical working group on cooperative reform and revitalization.
“We will develop implementation strategies that align with the Renewed Hope Agenda, prioritising the needs of our citizens and promoting economic growth.
“Secondly, we will examine proposals for restructuring the Federal Department of Cooperatives’ divisions and units.
“This will ensure that our institutions are fit for purpose, efficient, and effective in delivering services to our citizens,” he added.
He also emphasized the importance of repositioning Federal Cooperative Colleges nationwide.
“Our goal is to ensure that these institutions are equipped to provide high-quality training and education, preparing our youth for the challenges of the 21st century,” Abdullahi stated.
