The INEC Staff Multipurpose Cooperative Society (SMCS) Plateau State successfully held a business seminar and swearing-in ceremony for its newly elected executive committee at the INEC State Office, Miango Road, Jos. The event, which focused on financial empowerment, accountability, and cooperative growth, brought together members, stakeholders, and resource persons to discuss economic resilience and sustainable income generation.
The event commenced with an opening remark by Nancy Nkem Nwosu, Vice President of INEC SMCS Plateau State, who emphasized the importance of accountability and active participation in the seminar. She urged members to explore multiple income streams, especially in Nigeria’s challenging economic climate, and to apply the knowledge gained for financial stability and retirement security.
Dr. Oliver Tersoo Agundu, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of Plateau State, warmly welcomed participants and commended the organizers for the initiative. He paid tribute to the late Major General Moribu Akane with a moment of silence before stressing the seminar’s relevance in helping staff navigate economic uncertainties. Drawing from philosophy, he distinguished between mere existence and purposeful living, urging attendees to cultivate meaningful financial habits.
Bisi Ajala, Head of Department (General Administration and Procurement), shared personal insights from his 33-year career at INEC, advocating for disciplined savings, retirement planning, and prudent borrowing. He encouraged cooperative members to increase their contributions and adopt long-term financial strategies.
A key highlight was the paper presentation by Dr. Mari Dauda Salihu (DVM), who explored opportunities in livestock and poultry farming. He provided practical guidance on rearing cows, poultry, pigs, fish, and other livestock, emphasizing a start-small approach. He also highlighted disease management, breed selection, veterinary support, and the importance of insurance in mitigating risks.
Additionally, Leadway Pension Administrator, led by Kolawale Olusade, gave a brief presentation on insurance benefits, reinforcing the need for financial safeguards in business ventures.
The event transitioned into the swearing-in of the newly elected executive committee, administered by Barr. Otubiyo Agbo, Acting HOD Legal Services, INEC Plateau State. Certificates were presented by Engr. Wakili Tol, HOD ICT, INEC Benue State, and Chairman of the Electoral Committee.
The newly inaugurated executives include:
- President – Musa Badi Datong
- Vice President – Nancy Nkem Nwosu
- Secretary – Monica Wuyep Pangkhinah
- Treasurer – Rabiatu Abdullahi Haruna
- Financial Secretary – Yepe Danjuma Dakop
- Assistant Financial Secretary – Bashir Mohammed Haruna
- Assistant Secretary – Bulus Danladi Fondong
- Public Relations Officer– Kallamu Ibrahim Mohammed
In his acceptance speech, Musa Badi Datong expressed gratitude to members and pledged to build on past achievements, including financial automation, strong governance, and improved welfare. His second-term agenda focuses on:
- Strengthening member economic resilience
- Expanding service offerings
- Promoting financial literacy
- Encouraging innovation within the cooperative
Quoting Hebrews 10:22, he called for unity and faith in achieving a more impactful cooperative society.
The seminar and swearing-in ceremony reinforced INEC SMCS Plateau State’s commitment to member empowerment and sustainable growth. With renewed leadership and valuable financial insights, the cooperative is poised to enhance the welfare of its members amid Nigeria’s evolving economic landscape.
