Department of Cooperative Services

Strengthening Economic Empowerment Through Registered Cooperative Societies in Lagos

Overview

The Department of Cooperative Services is responsible for the registration, supervision, auditing, and general oversight of all cooperative societies in Lagos State. Guided by the Lagos State Cooperative Societies Law, 2022, the Department plays a pivotal role in promoting economic empowerment, inclusive development, and community wealth through cooperative enterprise models.

With over 16,000 registered cooperative societies and 24 Area Offices across Local Government Areas, the Department ensures effective coordination, compliance monitoring, and developmental support in line with global cooperative principles.

Core Responsibilities

The Department's core responsibilities include:

  • Registration of cooperative societies in accordance with Lagos State law
  • Periodic inspection, monitoring, and auditing of societies
  • Conflict resolution through mediation and arbitration
  • Promotion of cooperative education and governance
  • Enforcement of compliance across all cooperative societies

The Department operates through five units:

  • Registration Unit
  • Inspectorate Unit
  • Mediation Unit
  • Insurance Unit
  • Monitoring and Enforcement Unit

Understanding Cooperative Societies

What Is a Cooperative Society?

A cooperative society is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet common economic, social, and cultural needs through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise.

Why Cooperatives Matter

Cooperatives:

  • Reduce poverty through affordable lending
  • Promote a savings culture
  • Encourage democratic participation in business
  • Serve as low-cost financial alternatives
  • Foster collaboration and create internal markets
  • Empower members with ownership and decision-making power
  • Offer structured welfare alternatives in workplaces

Who Can Form a Cooperative Society?

Any group with shared goals: Farmers, Traders, Artisans, Civil Servants, Professionals, Teachers, Business Owners and Corporate Organisations.

Types of Cooperative Societies

Cooperative Multipurpose Society Limited
Cooperative Agricultural Multipurpose Society Limited
Consumer Cooperative Thrift and Credit Society Limited
Cooperative Thrift and Credit Society Limited
Fishermen Cooperative Society Limited
Transport Cooperative Society Limited
Housing and Building Cooperative Society Limited
Artisan Cooperative Society Limited
Export Cooperative Society Limited
Cooperative Produce and Marketing Society Limited

Benefits of Registering a Cooperative

  • Legal recognition and certification
  • Access to operational guidelines and support
  • Periodic inspection and advisory services
  • Dispute resolution and mediation
  • Capacity building and training programmes
  • Support for effective record-keeping and governance

How to Register a Cooperative Society in Lagos State

Basic Requirements

  • Members must be 18 years and above
  • Members must be of good character and sound mind
  • Must have a common bond (profession, trade, employment, etc.)
  • Minimum of 20 foundation members
  • Must have a verifiable secretariat address

Steps for Registration

  1. Submit a formal application to the Permanent Secretary, MCCTI
  2. Hold and document an inaugural meeting (minutes required)
  3. Pay applicable registration fees
  4. Trustees (President, Secretary, Treasurer) must attend an induction course at the Lagos State Cooperative College
  5. Purchase statutory record-keeping books
  6. Undergo monitoring and supervision for three months
  7. Receive Certificate of Registration and Bye-laws

Post-Registration Obligations

  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date books (e.g. cashbook, ledgers)
  • Submit annual statement of accounts and returns
  • Hold regular meetings and an Annual General Meeting (AGM)
  • Participate in ongoing training for trustees and members
  • Remain compliant with all provisions of the Cooperative Societies Law

Need Assistance?

To begin the process or seek guidance, contact your nearest Cooperative Services Area Office or reach out to the Department through MCCTI Headquarters in Alausa.