*By lFEANYI NDUKWE, AWKA*

ADSi Multi-purpose Cooperative last Friday,30th of June, 2023 marked its first anniversary in commemoration of lnternational Day of Cooperatives with the theme, "Cooperatives: Partners for Sustainable Development."

The programme which held at the popular Emmaus House was attended by professionals, political office holders, traditional chiefs, community heads and stakeholders in the sector.

In his opening remarks, co- founder and chairman of ADSi, Dr Ogochukwu Soludo emphasized the need for collaboration and mutual benefits of collective responsibility.

He highlighted the achievements and milestones of the cooperative over the past year which includes; providing financial support to members to start or expand their businesses, organizing training and workshops on cooperative management, entrepreneurship and advocating for the interests of cooperatives with government and other stakeholders.

He said the vision of the cooperative is to be the most impactful society in Nigeria and an advocate for passion of patriotism and national progress.

"We have been able to raise 45million naira within 12 months of registration and launching. This revenue was generated from membership registration fee of #5000 and a monthly contribution of #1000 naira by individual members. Presently the society boosts of 600members.

"We are here to demonstrate integrity and service to humanity. Our major goal is to provide goods and services at a very low and affordable rate," he stated.

Also, speaking at the ceremony, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo CFR, duly represented by Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Chinedu Nwoye appraised the cooperative for its commitment to cooperative ideals and its contribution to Anambra State's socioeconomic growth.

Nwoye noted that Governor Soludo's manifesto offers a game-changing vision for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

His words: "The Governor's goal is to develop APGA into a cooperative movement that encourages active involvement, inclusiveness and progress in the state.

"Governor Soludo envisions a unique strategy that empowers individuals, communities, and organizations to actively contribute to Anambra State's development and governance processes by integrating cooperative governance principles with political ideology.

While responding to journalists on the sidelines, Accountant General of Anambra, Dr Chukwudi Okoli said the management of ADSi cooperative is top notch and experienced in various economic matters that would bring dividends of investment.

He said the Soludo-led government is aimed to support the course of the cooperatives, 'I strongly believe that the next phase of the cooperative will be of greater heights."

Highlights of the programme includes award presentation to illustrious persons for their humanitarian service and cutting of the anniversary cake as a symbol of unity and progress.