Kunav Development Association Charts New Course For Grassroots Empowerment

The Kunav Development Association (KUDA) Multipurpose Cooperative Society Ltd., Abuja chapter, has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots economic empowerment, collective growth, and sustainable development.

The association made this known at its 2025 Cooperative Summit in Abuja.

Held under the theme “Cooperative Synergy: Uniting for Success,” the summit brought together cooperative leaders, development experts, economists, and stakeholders across Nigeria to discuss strategies for harnessing cooperatives’ power to foster inclusive growth.

In his welcome address, KSM, FCA, MFR, chairman of KUDA Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Sir Aondoakaa Emmanuel, described the summit as a milestone in KUDA’s journey since its founding in September 2022.

“This event marks a significant chapter in our cooperative’s story. Our theme reflects our unwavering belief in collaboration, mutual support, and shared prosperity,” he stated.

Sir Emmanuel acknowledged the contributions of key individuals to KUDA’s evolution, including Engr. Pius Ioryue Uganden, pioneer KUDA President, and Arch. Bernard Yisa, who supported the event’s logistics.

The summit featured two core panel discussions: “Cooperative Finance and Economic Empowerment” and “Harnessing the Power of Cooperatives for Sustainable Growth.”

Experts shared insights on leveraging cooperative structures to boost economic resilience at the community level.

Delivering his opening remarks, the president of KUDA FCT Abuja, Mr Emmanuel Haaga, highlighted the potential of cooperatives to address economic challenges and improve livelihoods.

“Through cooperative finance, we can empower our members, inspire innovation, and build a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come,” he said.

A key moment of the summit was a goodwill message from Engr. Pius Uganden, who recalled KUDA’s humble beginnings and its vision-driven foundation.

“It is truly humbling to witness the transformation of KUDA—from an idea to a dynamic force for development,” he noted.

He praised the cooperative’s commitment to values such as equity, transparency, and social responsibility and urged members to remain adaptive and forward-thinking in a changing economic and technological landscape.

“The future holds immense possibilities. Let’s embrace innovation, build partnerships, and position KUDA as a model for cooperative excellence in Nigeria,” he said.

Beyond policy discussions, the summit featured cultural performances, an American-style auction, and networking sessions, reflecting KUDA’s dedication to unity, identity, and shared experiences.

As the summit drew close, participants departed with renewed energy and a shared vision to strengthen the cooperative movement in their communities and beyond.

Chairman Emmanuel summed up the spirit of the gathering: “Let’s take KUDA Cooperative to heights we can all be proud of.”

The 2025 Summit reinforced KUDA’s growing impact in Nigeria’s cooperative sector and its role as a catalyst for grassroots transformation.