The International Day of Cooperatives is celebrated annually on the first Saturday of July to recognize the contribution of cooperatives in socio-economic development and to raise awareness about the role they play in building a better world. This year’s theme is “Building a Self-Reliant Nigeria and a Better World through Co-operatives.”
Cooperatives are organizations owned and operated by their members, who work together to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations. They are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity.
Cooperatives have a long history in Nigeria and have played a significant role in the country’s development. They have been instrumental in creating jobs, reducing poverty, promoting social inclusion, and improving access to goods and services, especially in rural areas where they are most needed.
The International Day of Cooperatives provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of cooperatives in Nigeria and to reflect on how they can continue to contribute to the country’s development. Here are some ways in which cooperatives can build a self-reliant Nigeria and a better world.
- Creating Jobs and Promoting Economic Growth
Cooperatives can create jobs and promote economic growth by providing access to credit, training, and markets for their members. They can also pool resources to invest in productive enterprises that generate income and employment opportunities. This is particularly important in Nigeria, where unemployment and poverty are major challenges.
- Improving Access to Basic Services
Cooperatives can improve access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and housing by providing these services to their members at affordable prices. They can also invest in infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity to improve the living conditions of their members.
- Fostering Social Inclusion and Empowerment
Cooperatives can foster social inclusion and empowerment by providing a platform for marginalized groups such as women, youth, and people with disabilities to participate in economic activities and decision-making. This can help to reduce inequalities and promote social cohesion.
- Promoting Environmental Sustainability
Cooperatives can promote environmental sustainability by adopting practices that reduce their environmental footprint and by investing in renewable energy and other green technologies. This is important in Nigeria, where environmental degradation is a major challenge.
- Building Stronger Communities
Cooperatives can build stronger communities by promoting social capital, trust, and cooperation among their members. This can help to foster a sense of belonging and solidarity, which is essential for building resilient communities.
In conclusion, the International Day of Cooperatives provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of cooperatives in Nigeria and to reflect on how they can continue to contribute to the country’s development. By creating jobs, improving access to basic services, fostering social inclusion and empowerment, promoting environmental sustainability, and building stronger communities, cooperatives can help to build a self-reliant Nigeria and a better world.
