The Federal Government has unveiled a major policy push to digitalize Nigeria’s cooperative sector, positioning technology as a central pillar of the proposed Cooperative Reform Programme set for rollout in 2026.
Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, and Coordinating Minister for Cooperative Reform, Dr. Aliyu Abdullahi, announced the initiative at a national symposium in Abuja, stressing that the overhaul will modernize cooperative operations nationwide.
According to him, the reform will prioritize full-scale digitization, transparent financial reporting, and strong governance structures to build a more efficient and inclusive cooperative ecosystem.
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“We are committed to the full-scale digitiaation of cooperative operations, establishing transparent financial reporting, and implementing robust governance mechanisms. This initiative will promote technology-enabled inclusion for women, farmers, traders, and youth,” he said.
The government’s digital vision places Akilaah Solutions, a leading cooperative digital ecosystem and fintech firm at the forefront of nationwide technology adoption in the sector.
Akilaah Solutions and its parent company, MAJ Fintech Group, swept all three categories in which they were nominated at the 7th Nigerian National Cooperative Awards, including Most Innovative Company of the Year and Best Cooperative Management Solution of the Year.
The firm has built an extensive digital toolkit aligned with the government’s reform blueprint. Its solutions include:
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Digital savings and loan systems
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Biometric onboarding for cooperative members
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E-voting and governance modules
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Real-time visibility and reporting from local cooperatives to apex and federal levels
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Welfare and subsidy distribution tools
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An internal marketplace for cooperative producers and MSMEs
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Automated compliance reporting for regulators
These capabilities position Akilaah to support the digitisation of more than 30,000 cooperatives and millions of members across Nigeria.
Akilaah’s CEO, Mrs. Amenan Kouakou, was also honoured as Most Outstanding Cooperative President of the Year. She emphasised the role of young people and women in driving digital reforms and financial inclusion.
“This recognition is for every cooperative, every woman, every youth, and every community striving for financial dignity. Akilaah is built by cooperators, for cooperators. We will continue to innovate for Nigeria and for Africa,” she said.
