Lagos State Cooperative Movement Celebrates 2024 International Cooperative Day in Grand Style

Lagos State Cooperative Movement Celebrates 2024 International Cooperative Day in Grand Style

The Lagos State Cooperative Movement celebrated the 2024 International Cooperative Day with a week of vibrant events from Tuesday, July 2nd to Sunday, July 7th. Organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade, and Investment in partnership with the Lagos State Cooperative Federation (LASCOFED), the celebration centered around the global theme: “Cooperatives: Build a Better Future for All.”

International Cooperative Day, observed annually on the first Saturday of July, was established by the United Nations to honor the contributions of cooperatives worldwide. This year’s festivities in Lagos highlighted the movement’s achievements and provided a platform for networking and collaboration among cooperators and cooperative societies.

In his keynote address, LASCOFED President Barrister Oladipo Shobule emphasized the significance of this annual event. He noted that the day serves not only as a celebration but also as an opportunity for cooperators to reflect on how well stakeholders are upholding cooperative principles and best practices. “This event showcases the power of cooperation in building a better future. It allows us to assess our progress, share knowledge, and strengthen the bonds that make our movement so resilient,” Shobule remarked.

Weeklong Activities

The celebration kicked off with a press briefing, followed by a series of community outreach initiatives, including visits to care homes and orphanages, reflecting the cooperative movement’s commitment to concern for the community. One of the highlights was a cooperative road walk, where members marched in unity through the streets of Lagos, demonstrating the solidarity and community spirit that define the cooperative ethos.

The Grand Finale, held on Saturday, July 6th, at the LASCOFED Multipurpose Hall, was the culmination of the week’s events. Attended by key figures from the Lagos State Cooperative Movement, government officials, and cooperative leaders, the event featured panel discussions and interactive sessions on housing and mortgage issues, highlighting the cooperative movement’s focus on addressing pressing social and economic challenges. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by a raffle draw and product exhibitions, giving attendees the chance to win prizes and explore offerings from local cooperatives.

Closing Ceremonies

The celebrations concluded with thanksgiving services at the Lagos State Central Mosque on Friday, July 5th, and at Christ the Light Chapel on Sunday, July 7th. Cooperators gathered to express gratitude for the successes of the past year and to pray for continued blessings and growth in the future.

Messages of Prudence and Growth

The Honorable Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade, and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, delivered an inspiring message during the event. She urged all cooperative leaders and members to prudently manage cooperative businesses and funds, emphasizing that responsible governance and financial management are crucial to the continued growth and sustainability of the movement. “By maintaining high standards in governance and financial management, we ensure that our cooperatives remain strong and capable of fulfilling our mission to build a better future for all,” she stated.

A Celebration of Impact

The 2024 International Cooperative Day celebration in Lagos was more than just a commemoration—it was a powerful reaffirmation of the cooperative movement’s ability to drive positive change in the lives of millions. With a focus on sustainability, governance, and community engagement, the event underscored the movement’s role in shaping a brighter future for all.