Cooperatives have been described as key drivers of sustainable economic development.
This was the centre of discourse at the 2023 International Cooperative Day Symposium and Maiden Alumni Homecoming held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka.
The conference organized by the Department of Cooperative Economics and Management, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka in conjunction with Institute of Cooperative Professionals of Nigeria attracted students, management and staff of the university, captains of industry, traditional rulers and alumni members of the department among others.
Declaring the event opened, the Vice-Chancellor of the University , Professor Charles Esimone represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration, Professor Joseph Ikechebelu, called on Departments of Cooperative Economics and Management in Nigeria tertiary institutions and federal and state Ministries of Cooperatives to further sensitize the populace on the benefits of Cooperatives to their individual members and to the Nigerian economy.
He said the emergence of well-organized cooperatives would make significant impact on the country’s small and medium scale enterprises, agricultural sector, cottage industries and in many other ways, thus becoming partners in the sustainable development of Nigeria.
In her remarks, the Head of the Department, Dr Uju Agbasi said she has a burning desire to create a synergy between the Department and its alumni which informed the organizing of
2023 International Cooperative Day as a platform to have Maiden Homecoming of their Alumni to enlist them to the much-needed infrastructural development of the department.
Dr Agbasi explained that UNIZIK has continued to make progress in infrastructure and academic developments which he said is significant in the recent rating of the university but noted that for the university to compete effectively with their foreign counterparts, the development of the institution should not be left in the hands of government alone.
The guest lecturer, Chief Tajudeen Ayeola called on Cooperatives and civil society organizations to join forces to deal with socio-economic issues challenging Nigeria today.
Professor Sharubutu Garba, in his lecture, noted that the International Cooperatives Day is creating awareness on the need to bring back the days of commodity board and a
wake up call to cooperatives to re-energize cooperative societies at all levels to boost the economy of the nation.
Presentation of awards to distinguished personalities, unveiling of the book, “Readings in Co-operative Economics and Management, third edition by the traditional ruler of Umuawulu, Igwe Joel Egwuonwu , formed the highpoints of the conference.
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