On April 22, 2025, the Bureau of Cooperatives and Rural Development convened a statewide Cooperative Stakeholders’ Meeting in Uyo. The event brought together cooperative leaders, policymakers, and development partners to discuss the future of cooperative development under the AK-COOPTS 2025–2030 strategy.

The focus was clear: to reposition cooperatives as engines of job creation, financial inclusion, and rural prosperity across Akwa Ibom.

Voices & Highlights

Rt. Hon. Alice Ekpenyong
Special Adviser to the Governor on Cooperatives & Rural Development

“It’s time to unlock the full potential of our cooperatives using modern strategies. The Governor is committed to making this vision a reality.”

AK-COOPTS 2025–2030 Strategy
Unveiled during the meeting, the Akwa Ibom State Cooperative Transformation Strategy will:

• Strengthen cooperative governance
  Enhance access to finance and markets
  Create jobs through agribusiness and enterprise hubs
  Align with the Arise Agenda for sustainable economic growth

Mr. Monday John
Director of Cooperatives

“Let’s not just chase grants. Let’s build structures and businesses that will outlive us.”

Mr. Idorenyin Ekpo
Country Director, Cooperators Without Borders Nigeria

“Unity, transparency, and the right leadership can move cooperatives from survival to significance.”

Concerns Raised by Stakeholders

• Limited access to grants and cooperative-friendly loan schemes
  Need for stronger capacity-building programs
  Demand for regular audits and clearer communication channels

Outcomes & Next Steps

• Formation of technical working groups to support AK-COOPTS implementation
  Community cooperative audit campaigns to be launched Q3 2025
  Monthly forums for cooperative sector updates and feedback

Media Gallery

(Attach or embed 3–5 event images in carousel or grid format)

• Group photo of attendees

• Speaker highlights

• Visual of the AK-COOPTS strategy booklet

AriseAgenda, AKSCooperatives, BuildingTogether, AkwaIbomRising, CooperativeTransformation