The Federal Government has unveiled ambitious plans to digitize Nigeria's cooperative sector as part of comprehensive reforms scheduled for 2026. This groundbreaking initiative was announced during a national symposium held in Abuja, signaling a major shift toward modernizing the country's cooperative movement.
Government's Digital Reform Agenda
Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security and the Coordinating Minister for Cooperative Reform, revealed that digital transformation will form a fundamental pillar of the upcoming Cooperative Reform Programme. The minister emphasized the government's commitment to revolutionizing cooperative operations across Nigeria.
"We are dedicated to achieving full-scale digitization of cooperative operations, establishing transparent financial reporting systems, and implementing robust governance mechanisms," Dr. Abdullahi stated during the symposium. "This initiative will specifically promote technology-enabled inclusion for women, farmers, traders, and youth across the nation."
Akilaah Solutions Emerges as Reform Partner
The government's announcement comes at a significant moment for Akilaah Solutions, a cooperative digital ecosystem and Fintech company that has positioned itself as a leader in the sector's transformation. The company and its parent organization, MAJ Fintech Group, achieved remarkable success at the 7th Nigerian National Cooperative Awards, winning all three categories for which they were nominated.
Their awards included:
- Most Innovative Company of the Year
- Best Cooperative Management Solution of the Year
Adding to the company's accolades, Mrs. Amenan Kouakou, Chief Executive Officer of Akilaah Solutions, was honored as the 'Most Outstanding Cooperative President of the Year'.
Technology Solutions Aligned with National Reforms
Akilaah has developed comprehensive tools that directly support the government's reform blueprint. The company's existing capabilities include:
- Digital savings and loans platforms
- Biometric member onboarding systems
- E-voting and governance modules
- Real-time visibility from local to federal levels
- Welfare and subsidy distribution solutions
- Internal marketplace for cooperative producers and MSMEs
- Automated reporting features for regulators
These technological solutions position Akilaah as uniquely equipped to support the digitization of over 30,000 cooperatives and millions of members throughout Nigeria.
Speaking about the recognition and the company's mission, Mrs. Kouakou highlighted the crucial role of youth and women in driving digital reforms. "This recognition is for every cooperative, every woman, every youth, and every community striving for financial dignity," she stated. "Akilaah is built by cooperators, for cooperators. We will continue to innovate for Nigeria and for Africa."
The convergence of government policy and private sector innovation signals a transformative period for Nigeria's cooperative sector, with digital technology expected to enhance transparency, efficiency, and financial inclusion for millions of Nigerians involved in cooperative movements.
