The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), has emplored members of the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPMDA), to key into the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) designed to provide financial and social protection to workers in private and public sectors for growth.
Executive Director, Operations, Mojisola Ali-Macaulay, made the remark at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Auto Spare Parts and Machinery Dealers Association (ASPMDA), where she congratulated the organisation on its remarkable achievements, calling for partnership that will benefit its members and their families.
“This milestone is a testament to the resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment of members of the association in driving economic growth and promoting industrial development in Nigeria.”
Ali-Macaulay noted that over two decades, ASPMDA has played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s automotive and machinery sector, providing essential spare parts, tools and equipment that sustain industries, transportation and businesses across the country. “Your contributions go beyond commerce; they ensure the safety, efficiency, and productivity of key sectors that support the Nigerian economy.”
Urging ASPMDA members to continue with their dedication to ethical business practices, product quality and innovation, the ED pointed out that NSITF is a caring organization that actively prioritizes the well-being and needs of its employees, stakeholders and community, demonstrating genuine concern and support through the ECS, policies and culture, and ensures that the organization fosters a positive and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and cared for.
Sharing the common goals it has with ASPAMDA, she noted that as an institution dedicated to social security and the welfare of the Nigerian workers and their families, the NSITF is committed to providing financial protection against workplace-related risks, ensuring that employees receive adequate compensation in cases of injury, disability or loss of life arising from occupational hazards. “Just as ASPAMDA ensures the availability of quality spare parts to keep machinery and vehicles functioning efficiently, the NSITF ensures that workers remain protected, empowered and secured in their workplaces.”
She pointed out the shared vision to include “A Nigeria where businesses thrive, workers are safeguarded and economic prosperity is sustained through a strong framework of social security and industry-driven commerce.”
She urged ASPMDA members to continue with their dedication to ethical business practices, product quality, and innovation.
“At NSITF, we are committed to supporting businesses like yours by advocating for safe work environments and ensuring that social insurance policies align with the evolving needs of Nigerian industries.”
For her part, Regional Manager Mainland Region of NSITF, Agboma Obiaku Okoroafor called on the association to key into the ECS and enjoy its numerous benefits.
She noted according to the funds vision, every worker, whether in the formal or informal sector, deserves protection from unforeseen circumstances that could disrupt their livelihood.
She collaborated the views of the managing director that the informal economy must be included in all facets of government intervention, especially in social security.
“The ECS is designed to provide financial and social protection to workers in both the private and public sectors, ensuring they are not left vulnerable in times of need.”
She reeled out the gains of joining the scheme, from access to a range of cash and non-cash benefits, to include death benefits -financial support for the family of a deceased worker
“Disability Benefits for workers who can no longer work due to disabilities from the workplace.
“Medical expense refunds – covering costs for treatment of work-related injuries or illnesses
“Loss of productivity compensation – ensuring workers have income support during recovery
“Provision of prosthesis and assistive devices – for those who require them due to workplace injuries
”Vocational skills training – helping injured workers acquire new skills to remain productive
“Rehabilitation services – supporting physical and psychological recovery to reintegrate into the workforce.”
She further encouraged the audience to embrace the opportunity,” secure your future and safeguard your businesses.”
She noted that the door of the fund was open to all members of ASPAMDA every day of the week, disclosing that the offices of the funds were at Satellite and Badagry.
“We also have branches in Apapa, Lekki, Epe, Lagos Island, Ikorodu amongst others.’
President of ASPMDA, Ngozi Emechebe in his address noted that in the past 25 years, the association has grown from a small group of entrepreneurs to a thriving community of business leaders, innovators and change makers.
“Our organisation has been built on the principles of excellence,integrity and service and we have worked tirelessly to promote the interest of our members, support the growth of our community and contribute to the development of our nation.
Emechebe credited the achievement of the association to the vision, resilience and determination of the founding fathers who dared to dream big and paved way for the future generations.
He acknowledge that there are more opportunities to explore and challenges to overcome and many more billionaires to emerge.
“As we look to the future, we are excited about the prospects of new opportunities, innovations and success.
“We are committed to continuing our legacy of excellence, integrity and service and to providing a platform for our members to grow, thrive and succeed.”
The vice president, Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, Maureen Ashara applauded the traders for their doggedness thus far, urging them to continue in the resilient innovation to build a sovereign market place.
“I encourage you to continue to be staedfas in all you do and we will achieve better ahead.”