In Nembe, Bayelsa State, women are coming together through the Centre LSD Multipurpose Cooperative Society to support one another, strengthen their businesses, and build a culture of savings and financial discipline.

The cooperative provides members with access to small loans, enabling them to invest in their livelihoods from fishing and food trading to provision stores and other small businesses that support their families.

1. Initimi Nyong – Fisherwoman “This cooperative is my helper.” With support from the group, she was able to purchase a fishing engine, helping her increase her catch and improve her income.

2. Charity Apiri – Teacher & Banana Trader

Used cooperative support to pay school fees and start a banana-selling business, creating an additional source of income for her household.

3. Keremah Esther – Provision Store Owner

Accessed support to stock her shop ahead of the festive season, strengthening her sales and business stability.

4. Biene Iruo – Foodstuff Trader Expanded her foodstuff business and developed stronger financial discipline through the cooperative.

Members say the cooperative has become more than a financial platform, it is a community support system that helps women grow their businesses, support their families, and plan for the future.

Stories like these highlight the power of collective action and the role women play in strengthening local economies.