Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Cooperative societies have played a significant role in the socio-economic development of Nigeria since their introduction. This research delves into the origin and development of cooperative societies in Nigeria, tracing their evolution from the pre-colonial era to the present day. The study employs a historical approach, utilizing both primary and secondary sources to provide a comprehensive analysis of the cooperative movement in Nigeria. The origins of cooperative societies in Nigeria can be traced back to the traditional practices of mutual assistance and communal cooperation among various ethnic groups. These indigenous cooperative principles laid the foundation for the formal establishment of cooperative societies during the colonial period. The British colonial administration introduced cooperative societies as a means of promoting agricultural development and empowering local communities. The development of cooperative societies in Nigeria was influenced by various factors, including government policies, economic conditions, and social dynamics. The Cooperative Societies Ordinance of 1935 provided a legal framework for the registration and regulation of cooperative societies in Nigeria. Subsequent legislation and government initiatives aimed at promoting cooperative development further shaped the cooperative landscape in the country. Over the years, cooperative societies in Nigeria have evolved to encompass a wide range of sectors, including agriculture, finance, housing, and consumer cooperatives. These cooperatives have played a vital role in poverty reduction, rural development, and empowerment of marginalized groups. The cooperative movement has also contributed to fostering social cohesion, promoting self-help initiatives, and enhancing community resilience. Despite facing various challenges such as inadequate funding, poor governance, and limited access to markets, cooperative societies in Nigeria continue to thrive and adapt to changing economic conditions. The cooperative movement remains a crucial component of Nigeria's development agenda, with the potential to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development. In conclusion, the origin and development of cooperative societies in Nigeria reflect a rich history of community-based collaboration and collective action. By examining the evolution of cooperative societies in Nigeria, this research provides valuable insights into the role of cooperatives in promoting economic development, social welfare, and empowerment at the grassroots level.

Thesis Overview

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The history of modern co-operative society in Nigeria dates back to 1933 when the government of Nigeria arranged for an inspection to be carried out by M.C.F Strickland a co-operating expert, who for three months December 1933 to March 1934 investigated the possibility of introducing a co-operative system into Nigeria. Mr. Jlriok – land strongly recommended the introduction of co-operatives into Niger and his report submitted in 1934 (April) forms the main point for the introduction of modern co-operation into Nigeria. Mr. Strickland also drafted a proposed ordinance and regulation. His report was accepted and quickly implemented co-operative was registered in the name of Mr. E.F.G Haig, was appointed and sent for training in overseas. Mr. Haig studied the Indian co-operative law and modified it for use in Nigeria. By 1934, many co-operative has been formed. The first co-operative society to be registered was that G. Bedun near Ibada in 1937 late Chief Akinpene Obisesan who is regarded as the father of Gbedum Co-operative produces marketing society limited following this, many co-operative were formed all over the country.

A co-operative is an association of persons united, social and austral used and aspirations through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise. A co-operative is an association of persons into a capital. The interest of the members must come before those of capital. The group of persons is the social element. In early 80s, so many co-operatives was formed, this is done so as to enable members to save their money and also with the aim of borrowing loans from the society a lot of progress was gain by member because of the low rate of interest also, it encourage members to borrow money from other organization. However, co-operative have played an effective role to the socioeconomic development and growth of the society today. This will take the ovation to a greater height in such a way that individuals and organizations does not lack fund. The nation will be push to a fretter industrial and technological stage.

1.2   STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The problem associated with the development of co-operative is that there are many problems, which prevent it from not performing, as well as it should, these include:

a. Poor members and high level of illiteracy among members, low public awareness of co-operative potential lecturers and seminar are not held by the member, this leads to which level of ignorance of member.

b. LACK OF INTEREST AMONG MEMBERS

Low level of participation, the char action is what belongs to everybody, belongs to nobody, non-participation has caused problem for the development of co-operative in Nigeria.

c. POOR MANAGEMENT

Poor management by the official and members has caused problems to the development of co-operative in Nigeria. Not keeping the account book in safe for audit will lead to problem.

 1.3  PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

a. To determine the contribution of the co-operative movement to the economic of their members.

b. To measure community awareness of the co-operative in its immediate environment.

c. To examine the management of co-operative

d. To determine the sources of funds for the co-operative and how surplus are shared among the members.

1.4   SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The research work will be useful with the following importance:

a. To student and scholars studying co-operative in higher institution system.

b. For further development of co-operative society in Nigeria, in order to redress the daily exploitation, which people suffer at hard of profit earning middlemen during the capitalist system.

c. To official of the society as a standard of internal evaluation and control performance in co-operative societies.

d. The research scholars who may wish to carry out further, the matter on related topics.