Contributions of Cooperative Societies to Improving the Income Levels of their Members in Kontagora Local Government Area of Niger State

Abstract

The economic empowerment of communities remains a critical component of sustainable development, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Kontagora Emirate, a largely agrarian and commercial region in Niger State, faces persistent challenges such as unemployment, low income levels, and limited access to credit facilities. These challenges have impeded the ability of many residents to achieve financial stability and sustainable livelihoods. It is against this backdrop that this study assesses the impact of cooperative societies to the economic empowerment of Kontagora emirate of Niger State. The study adopted a survey design and used a purposive sampling technique to get one hundred and nineteen participants for the study. The data analysis was done through the use of simple percentages and frequencies. The finding of research question one indicates that cooperative societies contribute to improving the income levels of their members through helping members to diversify their sources of income, provide them with requisite training that enhances income-generating skills, give them bonuses which improves their wellbeing and financial stability. The finding has implications for further studies such as further studies assessing the role of digital technology in enhancing cooperative society operations.