Deputy Governor of Edo State, Engr. Godwins Omobayo, at the weekend described cooperative societies as the live wire of the larger society.
Engr. Omobayo, who was speaking as the special guest of honour at the grand finale/award ceremony of the 2024 International Day of Cooperatives, said
Cooperatives, not only in Nigeria but across the globe, have provided a means for all to save for a better future.
According to the Deputy Governor, who was represented by his Public Relations Officer (PRO), Dr. Austin Osegbe, “If not for the existence of Cooperative Societies, it would have been difficult for any of us civil servants and public servants to do one or two things, cooperatives societies have provided us a veritable platform for savings.
“Edo State government, through the Ministry of Business Trade and Cooperatives not too long ago, engaged stakeholders in cooperatives societies across the state, and made it clear why they must abide by the rules and regulations.
“I want to believe that after that engagement, the cooperative societies in Edo State have not only been strengthened, but also repositioned for better service delivery.”
While admonishing those present to continue to pray for the governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Godwin Obaseki, to finish well and finish strong, Omobayo said, “By the grace of God, Governor Obaseki will finish well and finish strong, because this is one man that has transformed the entire civil service in the state and made the working environment world class.
“He’s a compassionate governor with a great heart for the workforce in Edo state, and that is why he’s doing everything possible to ensure that the civil service in the state is taken to greater heights.
“The theme for this year’s 102nd celebration, Cooperatives, Build A Better Future For All is very apt, because when you look at your savings, you know that it pays to belong to a cooperative.
“I urge you all cooperators and stakeholders to continue to extend our loyalty to the government of the day, and pray for Dr. Godwin Obaseki the People-centric governor, a visionary leader, yo finish well and finish strong”.
Earlier, the Commissioner MBTC, Hon. Patrick Iria Uanseru, while welcoming cooperators and other stakeholders to the ceremony, said, “I warmly welcome you to this year’s International Day of Cooperatives, celebrated every 1 Saturday of July. This event honours the contributions of cooperatives worldwide and theircrolevin fostering a sustainable and equitable future.
“The International Day of Cooperatives provides a platform to discuss the ongoing role of cooperatives societies in building a better world. By participating, you help ensure a future where cooperatives contribute to a more prosperous and inclusive society.
“We have enhanced the capacity of box cooperatives societies in the state through digitization and automation of the registration process. Now new cooperatives can register and receive their certificate without delay.
“We are also training trustees and members in using your managed cooperatives thereby improving ease of doing business in the state”.
On his part, Chairman of Live Above Poverty Organization (LAPO) Group, Dr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe and chairman of the occasion, said, “The cooperative movement in Nigeria had lost its autonomy in the manner the cooperative enterprise was introduced. The introduction of cooperatives to Nigeria was solely the idea of the colonial administration to realize the aim of effective exploitation of agricultural resources. The cooperative movement of 1935 was placed under the exclusive control of colonial officials. The Co-operative ordinance gave wide ranging powers to the Registrar of cooperatives, a government appointee.
Speaking further, Dr. Ehigiamusoe who was represented by Kenneth Okakw, Ph.D, said, “Not much would be achieved in cooperative movement without making it relevant to agriculture. Collaboration between the current department of cooperatives and relevant departments of the Ministry of Agriculture is required to formulate a roadmap for effective application of the cooperative principles and practices to agriculture.
“Dr. Ehigiamusoe while making a case gir cooperative societies,said, “I would like to appeal to the government as lead partner in any development effort, to make concerted efforts at developing an agenda that will make the cooperative movement benefit the ordinary people. In the mode of democracy rhyme, the Cooperative enterprise is economic development of the society by the people and for the people ”.
There was also a panel of discussion, where experts gave insights into sundry issues. The panelists comprised, the Permanent Secretary of MBTC, Mrs. B. J Igbinobaro(anchor), Mr. Joel Edionwe, Consultant, Efo State Investment Promotion office (ESIPO) ;Mr. Efe Iserhienrhien, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Budget, Economic Planning and Development Edo State; Dr. Osarenren Aigienohuwa, president ,Association of Non Banking Micro finance Institution of Nigeria(ANMFIN) ; Mr Ojo Filani, President, Edo Cooperatives Federation;Mr. Nosa Obayuwana, state coordinator, GIZ-Sedin.
In her closing remarks, Director of Cooperatives, Mrs. Enoma Efeoma thanked participants for all their contributions at ensuring a successful cooperatives day celebration. High point was the presentation of awards to some individuals and cooperatives for their outstanding contributions.