By Mercy Aikoye
The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) is teaming up with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, to promote workplace safety awareness and extend social insurance coverage to informal sector workers. This collaboration aims to enhance the safety and well-being of Nigerian workers, particularly those in the informal economy.
According to NSITF’s Managing Director, Mr. Oluwaseun Mayomi Faleye, the partnership will focus on public awareness campaigns, workplace safety training, and risk assessments for both formal and informal sector workers. This initiative is part of NSITF’s efforts to improve workplace safety and ensure that more Nigerians benefit from their social insurance scheme.
The informal sector plays a significant role in Nigeria’s economy, but many of its workers lack social insurance coverage. NSITF recognizes the importance of extending their coverage to this sector and is working tirelessly to bridge the gap. Their regional offices are actively engaging with informal sector workers to provide them with access to social insurance services.
NSITF is also undergoing reforms to improve their services, including fast-tracking compensation payments, simplifying the registration process, and increasing inspections to ensure compliance. These reforms aim to provide a more efficient and effective social insurance system for Nigerian workers.
The role of journalists in promoting workplace safety is crucial, and NSITF values their contribution to educating the public about workplace safety and social protection. Mr. Faleye urged the NUJ to engage with employers to ensure media workers are covered under the NSITF scheme, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing their safety.
Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, commended NSITF for their efforts in promoting occupational safety and worker protection. She proposed joint public enlightenment campaigns and media initiatives to improve accessibility to NSITF services, highlighting the importance of educating both employers and employees about their rights and responsibilities.
The partnership between NSITF and NUJ FCT aims to contribute to a more informed and protected workforce. By working together, they can promote a culture of safety and provide Nigerian workers with the knowledge and resources they need to stay safe and healthy on the job.
The meeting between NSITF and NUJ FCT was attended by members of the NUJ FCT executive, demonstrating the commitment of both organizations to promoting workplace safety and social insurance coverage for Nigerian workers.
