NSITF Warns Nigerian Workers Are Increasingly Exposed to Workplace Risks
ABUJA — The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has raised concerns over rising occupational hazards in Nigerian workplaces, warning that workers are becoming one of the most vulnerable groups in the country due to weak safety systems and inadequate protection measures.
The Managing Director of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, made this known during a panel session at the International Civil Service Conference in Abuja, which focused on inclusive public service delivery for women, youths, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
Faleye, who was represented by the Fund’s Abuja Regional Manager, Mrs Bridget Ashang, said the agency remains committed to protecting workers through occupational safety initiatives and the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS).
He explained that the ECS provides support to workers who suffer injuries, disabilities, illnesses, or death in the course of their duties, while also extending assistance to dependants of deceased workers until their children reach adulthood or complete tertiary education.
According to him, although compensation is an important part of the NSITF’s mandate, greater attention is now being placed on preventing workplace accidents rather than reacting to them.
“Prevention is better than compensation. That is why we are leading when it comes to Occupational Safety and Health. We carry out audits, identify gaps in workplaces, recommend corrective actions and guide employers on best practices,” he said.
Faleye also noted that many workers in Nigeria face daily risks that are often overlooked in discussions about social protection.
“These are people who wake up every day, commute to work in all conditions, and spend long hours working. They are among the most vulnerable groups in society,” he added.
He stressed that a significant number of disabilities recorded in the country are linked to workplace incidents, urging employers to prioritise safe, inclusive, and well-regulated work environments for all categories of workers, including women, youths, and persons with disabilities.
Faleye further revealed that the NSITF conducts regular occupational safety inspections to promote compliance and workplace inclusiveness. However, he expressed concern over the absence of strong punitive measures in existing laws.
“Our law says employers should ensure workers are properly protected while at work, and where incidents occur, we step in. Unfortunately, there are no sanctions,” he said.
Other stakeholders at the session included senior government officials and disability rights advocates who also discussed strategies for improving workplace safety and inclusive governance across sectors.
