The success or failure of a co-operative society depends on how it is managed and the legal framework for its management. This work critically examines the relationship between co-operative societies law in Nigeria and co-operative principles as sanctioned by the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) and how they impact on co-operative governance.This involves analysis of rules, organs and the role of government in the maintenance of a virile co-operative. The legislative framework is fleshed out with discussions of provisions relating to the management and dissolution of co-operative societies. Quotations from important judgments accompanying discussion of substantial case law are painstakingly presented. Suggestions on how to strengthened co-operative governance are contained in the conclusion of the treatise. The monograph which aims at disseminating the knowledge of co-operative governance to the general public has its primary focus on students of co-operative studies, co-operative practitioners, policy makers and researchers. It is hoped that the book will be a worthy addition and fill existing gap in the literature on co-operative societies law in Nigeria.