As Nigeria joined the rest of the world to celebrate the 102nd lnternational Day of Cooperatives 2024, Edo State Deputy Governor, Engr Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, has said the present administration, under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, will continue to provide the enabling environment for cooperative societies to thrive, in order to engender the overall economic growth of the State.
The Deputy Governor gave the assurance over the weekend, when he spoke through Dr Austin Otas-Osegbe, Director, Media and Public Relations, Office of the Deputy Governor, during the celebration of this year’s event, organized by the Ministry of Business, Trade and Cooperative, MBTC, at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City.
The Edo State number two citizen described cooperative societies as the live wire and catalyst for shared economic prosperity in many households and communities across Nigeria and Edo State in particular, noting that the theme of the celebration: ‘ Cooperative Build A Better Future For All’ was very apt, considering the prospects and benefits enjoyed by cooperators.
According to Omobayo, ‘cooperative societies have provided a veritable platform for individuals to voluntarily pool resources together for their common interest and economic benefits’.
He restated the commitment of the Obaseki-led administration to general well-being and welfare of Edo citizens, especially workers who, he affirmed, as drivers of government policies and programmes.
In his address, the Chief Host and Commissioner, Ministry of Business, Trade and Cooperative, Mr Patrick Iria Uanseru, stated that the International Day of Cooperatives is celebrated every first Saturday of July.
He added: ‘ the International Day of Cooperatives provides a platform to discuss the ongoing role of cooperative societies in building a better world’.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Business, Trade and Cooperative and host of the event, Mrs Bose Joy Igbinobaro, moderated a Panelists’ Session at the ceremony.
The lnternational Day of Cooperatives celebration attracted members and stakeholders of the cooperative movement from within and outside Edo State.
Highlight of the event was recognition and presentation of awards to deserving cooperatives and individuals, including the Deputy Governor, Engr Marvellous Godwins Omobayo.
