Abiodun urges cooperatives to be firm on principles

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has urged cooperative leaders, members, regulators, and policymakers to remain true to the founding principles of cooperative societies while embracing modern realities.

He listed the modern realities to include digital finance, climate change, agriculture, and sustainable business models.

Abiodun gave the charge during the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives celebration organised by the Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives in collaboration with the Ogun State Cooperative Federation Limited, at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said cooperative societies not only drive economic empowerment but also promote social solidarity, provide communities with a sense of ownership, and reduce inequality.

He said, “This day reminds us all of the power of collective action and the enduring strength of community. Over the years, cooperative societies have proven to be a veritable vehicle for driving sustainable social and economic development across communities.

As the International Labour Organisation once affirmed, cooperatives are people-centred enterprises owned, controlled, and run by and for their members to realise their common, social, and cultural needs and aspirations.”

Abiodun described the theme of the 2025 celebration, ‘Cooperatives Build a Better World’, as both apt and inspiring.

He stressed that it underscored the relevance of the cooperative business model in addressing global challenges and accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the cooperative movement across the state by providing enabling legislation, financial support, and capacity-building initiatives.