From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja
The Board Chairman, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Engineer Sola Olofin, has emphasised the need to protect workers’ rights and promote safe working environment across the country.
Olofin, who spoke in Abuja on assumption of office, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him with the critical assignment, promising not to take the responsibility lightly considering the weight of expectations that come with it.
He said that the Employees’ Compensation Act (ECA) 2010, which established the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) under the NSITF, will reinforce the commitment to the welfare and dignity of Nigerian workers.
His words: “Under Section 3 of the ECA, the Fund is mandated to provide comprehensive compensation for employees who suffer from work-related injuries, illnesses, or fatalities.
“This mandate is not just a legal obligation; it is a moral imperative. It is the foundation upon which a just and equitable labour environment is built. Workers are the lifeblood of our economy, and their welfare must remain a priority if we are to achieve sustainable national development.
“As I assume office, I want to make it clear that my vision for the NSITF is one of transparency, efficiency, and accountability. We must reposition the Fund as a globally recognized social security institution that is trusted by employers, employees, and the general public. To achieve this, we must focus on key strategic areas: Strengthening Compliance and Coverage”
Olofin further warned: “Many employers in Nigeria have yet to fully comply with the provisions of the Employees’ Compensation Act. Section 33 of the ECA makes it mandatory for all employers to remit their contributions to the Fund.
“We must work closely with stakeholders, including labour unions, regulatory agencies, and the private sector, to expand the scope of compliance and ensure that every eligible worker is protected under the scheme,” he noted.
On his operational target, he said: “We will introduce stricter financial controls, enforce transparency, and ensure that every Naira remitted to the NSITF is utilized solely for the benefit of employees and employers who contribute to the scheme.
“The success of this institution depends on the quality of its workforce and the cooperation of all stakeholders. We will invest in training and capacity development for our staff to enhance professionalism and service delivery.
“Additionally, we will strengthen our engagement with labour organisations, employer associations, and relevant government bodies to build a robust and collaborative social security framework,” he promised.