Cooperative societies are a type of business organization that is owned and controlled by its members who are usually individuals with a common interest in a particular sector or industry. Cooperative societies play a key role in supporting Nigeria's farming/agricultural sector. One of the key ways cooperative societies support farming in Nigeria is by providing access to credit facilities. Cooperative societies help to overcome the challenges farmers face when it comes to accessing bank loans as a result of not having collateral or some other factors
Below is a list of such cooperative societies that are currently operating in Nigeria.
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All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN): This was established in 1981 and has since grown to become one of the largest and most influential cooperative societies in the country. AFAN provides its members with access to credit, training, and other services, and also serves as an advocate for the rights and interests of farmers in Nigeria. Look Up how you can create a business plan for your agro-business. https://smartsmssolutions.com/blog/83-updates/1784-sample-business-plan-template-for-an-agriculture-business
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Niger State Farmers’ Cooperative Society Limited: This cooperative, which was established in 1979, provides its members with access to credit, inputs, and other services, and also operates several agricultural processing and marketing facilities.
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Food defence corps: this is an NGO that educates people about new techniques in agriculture. They provide support to the unemployed and all who are interested in agricultural activities by training members on farm management, and agricultural economics and help to access credit for setting up Agro ventures. Get in contact with them here. https://fooddefensecorpsnigeria.wordpress.com/about-us/
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Cocoa farmers association of Nigeria: This association is restricted to Cocoa farmers. It was established in 1999. It aims to promote the socio-economic interest of Cocoa farmers nationwide and also encourages mutual and self-help among its members by helping to secure loans at low-interest rates and also gives grants-in-aid from both national and international organizations. Find out more about this association here https://www.cocoafarmersassociationofnigeria.org/new/aboutacademy.php
How to apply to those cooperative societies:
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Identify the cooperative society you wish to join: The first step is to research and identify the cooperative society that aligns with your interests and goals. You can do this by contacting the Cooperative Societies Registrar in your state, or by searching online for cooperative societies in your area.
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Review the eligibility requirements: Each cooperative society has its eligibility requirements for membership, such as the type of farming activities you engage in, the location of your farm, or your level of experience. It’s important to review these requirements and make sure you meet them before proceeding with your application.
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Complete the application form: Once you have determined that you are eligible to join the cooperative society, you will need to complete an application form. This form will typically ask for personal information, such as your name, contact details, and farming experience. It may also require you to provide proof of your eligibility, such as a copy of your farm’s registration or other documents.
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Submit the application form: Once you have completed the application form, you will need to submit it to the cooperative society, along with any required documents or proof of eligibility. This can typically be done in person, by mail, or online, depending on the cooperative society’s requirements.
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Attend an interview or orientation: After your application has been submitted, the cooperative society may ask you to attend an interview or orientation to learn more about the society’s goals and activities. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and learn more about the benefits and obligations of being a member.
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Pay the membership fee: As soon as your application is accepted, you will typically be required to pay a membership fee to join the cooperative society. The amount of this fee will vary depending on the society, and maybe a one-time thing or a monthly or annual fee.
Apart from cooperative societies, there are other ways to raise funds for your business.
If you follow these steps, you can become a member of a cooperative society and gain access to the benefits and services it offers.
By providing access to credit, inputs, and other services, cooperative societies help to improve the productivity and profitability of farmers in the country and ultimately contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
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