The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially declared open the 2025 International Day of Cooperatives (IDC), reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to strengthening the cooperative sector as a core component of the state’s economic development agenda.
The opening ceremony, which took place on Thursday, July 3, at the Women Development Centre, Uyo, drew participants from various cooperative societies and agencies across the state. Governor Eno, represented by the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, underscored the administration’s resolve to implement impactful programmes that would enhance cooperative growth and rural development.
“It is my pleasure to represent my boss and to declare this event open. Cooperative development is critical to the Governor’s vision for grassroots empowerment and inclusive economic growth,” Elder Essien stated. “He has lofty plans for the sector, and all stakeholders must work collaboratively to actualize this vision.”
Essien further commended the Special Adviser to the Governor on Bureau of Cooperative and Rural Development, Rt. Hon. Alice Ekpenyong, for her strategic leadership and dedication to the success of the event. Describing her as a “square peg in a square hole,” he praised her capacity to mobilize and reposition the sector effectively.
In her remarks, Rt. Hon. Ekpenyong expressed appreciation to the Governor for his responsive leadership and proactive engagement with the needs of cooperative societies in the state. She called on members of cooperatives across Akwa Ibom to actively participate in the three-day celebration and contribute to the success of this year’s observance.
“His Excellency has demonstrated genuine interest in the welfare of cooperatives. We urge all cooperators to show up in numbers and make this year’s celebration impactful,” she said.
Day One of the event featured capacity-building sessions for Field Staff of Cooperatives, Rural and Community Development officers, aimed at equipping them with practical skills to drive the administration’s cooperative agenda.
The 2025 International Day of Cooperatives is being marked under the theme of strengthening grassroots economies through collaboration and community-driven enterprise.
