Lagos aims to utilize 3000 cooperatives to enhance people’s quality of life.

The Lagos State government has restated its dedication to utilizing the extensive network of over 3000 cooperative societies within the state, with the aim of enhancing the citizens’ quality of life.

Adetutu Oluremi Ososanya, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives, emphasized the administration’s understanding of the cooperative movement as a highly democratic and locally self-governing entity that also holds international integration. She shared this insight during a media briefing ahead of the 2023 International Cooperative Day, which is being organized in collaboration with the Lagos State Cooperative Federation (LASCOFED).

With the theme “Cooperatives: Partners for accelerated sustainable development,” Ososanya revealed that this year’s celebration will begin with a cooperative awareness walk on August 23. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will serve as the distinguished guest of honor at the luncheon/merit award scheduled for August 26. The event will conclude on August 27, 2023, with an interdenominational thanksgiving service at the Chapel of Christ the Light in Alausa.

“The administration led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has recognized the significance of the over 3000 cooperative societies within the state. These societies and enterprises offer citizens a platform to enhance their lives effectively, while also playing a role in the economic, social, and cultural advancement of their local communities, the state, and the nation,” she explained.

To maximize the advantages of a strong partnership with the cooperative movement, Ososanya highlighted that the administration is actively working on establishing well-defined goals, objectives, and mechanisms for accountability. She emphasized that the collaboration with cooperatives will be guided by a shared vision and a mutual understanding of the desired outcomes.

“In order to support the operations of cooperative societies, the government can engage in partnerships by providing grants and facilitating collaboration with Development Partners to enhance the regulatory framework for their effective functioning,” she stated. “Cooperatives naturally serve as vehicles for collaborative partnership and universal prosperity, contributing to the sustainability of economies, societies, and environments across various regions and economic sectors.”

Oladipo Shobule, the president of LASCOFED, affirmed that cooperative societies in Lagos have remained committed to fulfilling their primary objectives since their inception.

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