By David Ndife, Awka
The Anambra State Government has launched reforms to strengthen cooperative societies and improve their access to government intervention funds, development financing, and international grants.
Speaking during the 2026 International Cooperative Day celebration in Awka, Commissioner for Commerce, Nonso Ebeonwu, said the reforms include a statewide revalidation and digitisation of cooperative societies to create a transparent database and improve governance.
He said the initiative, in partnership with the Cooperative Federation of Anambra State (COFAS), would enhance financial inclusion, grassroots development, and economic growth, while enabling cooperatives to benefit from funding opportunities such as the Bank of Industry (BOI).
COFAS President, Dr. Ogochukwu Soludo, said the federation had adopted a three-year roadmap focused on governance reforms, digital transformation, financial literacy, and improved access to affordable financing.
Director of Cooperatives, Mrs. Chinwe Ozoemena, said the planned Cooperative Management Information System would improve transparency, regulatory compliance, and attract international grants.
The event featured a symposium, march-past, exhibitions by cooperative societies, and inspection of locally made products.
Tags: Anambra, Cooperatives, BOI, COFAS, Economy
