Cooperative Society remains Instrumental towards promotion of Peace -Says Labaran Garba
It has been asserted that true peace exists when people have access to decent livelihoods, economic opportunities, social justice, and inclusion within their communities.
The President of Niger State Cooperative Federation (NISCOFED), Comrade Labaran Garba, emphasized this during the celebration of the 2026 International Day of Cooperatives, held in Minna under the theme: “Cooperatives for a Peaceful World.”
He stated that peace flourishes where individuals are empowered, opportunities are fairly distributed, and citizens feel valued and respected.
Comrade Garba affirmed that cooperative societies have enabled millions worldwide to access credit facilities, markets, agricultural inputs, housing, educational support, healthcare services, and social protections.
He highlighted that by improving the economic well-being of individuals and families, cooperatives help reduce poverty, promote social cohesion, and strengthen community resilience.
In Niger State, he noted, cooperatives continue supporting farmers, traders, artisans, civil servants, transport operators, women, youths, and various other groups.
However, he acknowledged challenges such as limited access to finance, inadequate cooperative education and awareness, weak institutional capacity, poor record-keeping, low technological adoption, and limited youth participation.
Addressing these issues requires collective effort and ongoing collaboration among stakeholders. He urged cooperative leaders to maintain transparency, accountability, integrity, and democratic governance.
Representing the Commissioner for Commerce Industry and Cooperatives, Director of Cooperative Development Musa Mohammed Erena highlighted the essential role of cooperatives in human development and called for increased priority and support.
He also appealed to members to strengthen efforts in public education about the importance of cooperatives, despite ongoing security challenges.
