The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Sabi Abdullahi, has stressed that reforming Nigeria’s cooperative sector is critical to achieving food security and reducing poverty. He described the move as urgent and unavoidable.

According to him, cooperatives play a major role in everyday economic activities, from farming and food distribution to housing, transport, and small business support. He noted that they remain a strong force for grassroots development.

He explained that the Federal Government, under its reform agenda, sees cooperative revitalization as key to boosting job creation and ensuring inclusive economic growth across the country.

Despite their importance, Abdullahi pointed out that the sector has faced many challenges over the years, including weak policies, poor funding, and lack of proper data systems.

He also highlighted issues such as limited use of technology, poor coordination across states, and inadequate training for those managing cooperative societies. These problems, he said, have slowed progress.

The government is now working through the Federal Department of Cooperatives to introduce new policies and reforms, with the aim of strengthening the system and unlocking its full potential for national development.