Abstract:

This study examines the contributions of cooperative societies to poverty reduction in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area (LGA), Benue State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to ascertain the contributions of cooperative societies to poverty reduction, examine the challenges faced by cooperative societies and to proffer strategies that will enhance efficiency in cooperative societies. The study utilizes a cross-sectional survey design, collecting data from 400 respondents selected through cluster, purposive, and simple random sampling techniques. Questionnaires and focus group discussions were used as methods of data collection while collected data was analysed qualitatively and quantitatively. Findings of the study revealed that cooperative societies have contributed to poverty reduction in the areas of employment generation, increased production, income generation, skills acquisition and market access to its members. In terms of challenges faces by cooperative societies, the study found poor leadership, lack of collateral, poor mobilization/awareness and insufficient funds as the major challenges confronting cooperative societies in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. Based on the findings, the study recommended capacity building for leaders of cooperative societies, access to credit facilities, sensitization and awareness, financial support, monitoring and evaluation among others as measures that will enhance efficiency in cooperative societies to enhance their contributions to poverty reduction.