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…As social protection demand increases
The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has called for urgent action to strengthen Nigeria’s social protection system, warning that rising population growth and a rapidly evolving labour market have made reform inevitable.
Managing director of NSITF, Barrister Oluwaseun Falaye, made the call on Wednesday while delivering his welcome address at the 2026 ISSA West Africa Technical Seminar held in Abuja, where policymakers, experts and stakeholders gathered to chart a new course for social security systems in the region.
“The demand for a responsive and strong social protection system is no longer optional—it is inevitable,” Falaye declared, setting the tone for the high-level discussions.
According to him, Nigeria’s unique demographic and economic realities make the issue particularly pressing, especially with a large youth population and one of Africa’s biggest informal economies.
“With a dynamic labour market and expanding population, we must ensure our systems are capable of responding to real needs,” he said. “This is about real people, real risks, and real consequences for families and communities.”
Falaye emphasized that the NSITF, under the Employees’ Compensation Act of 2010, carries a critical responsibility to protect workers against injuries, occupational diseases, disabilities, and death.
“This mandate is not theoretical,” he stressed. “It speaks directly to the wellbeing of Nigerian workers and the stability of their families.”
To meet these growing demands, the NSITF boss revealed that the organisation has embarked on a deliberate transformation, particularly through digital innovation aimed at improving service delivery.
“We are moving away from fragmented, paper-based systems to integrated digital platforms that enhance transparency, speed, and public confidence,” he explained.
He added that these reforms are already supporting faster claims processing, better data management, and more effective engagement with both employers and beneficiaries.
However, Falaye cautioned that digital transformation is not a quick fix but an ongoing process that requires sustained investment and institutional discipline.
“Digital transformation is continuous,” he said. “It requires skills, governance, cybersecurity, and, importantly, a shift in organisational culture.”
He noted that forums like the ISSA Technical Seminar provide critical opportunities for shared learning and collaboration among countries facing similar challenges.
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“These gatherings allow us to learn from one another, adopt tested solutions, and avoid costly mistakes,” he said.
Welcoming delegates from across West Africa and beyond, Falaye described the seminar as a platform for unity and collective progress.
“Nigeria welcomes you not just as delegates, but as partners in a shared mission,” he said. “We are united by a common purpose—to build social security systems that are relevant, inclusive, and trustworthy.”
Reflecting on previous engagements, he recalled the 2025 session hosted in Guinea, noting that it fostered open dialogue on shared regional challenges such as informality, financing pressures, and changes in the world of work.
He also highlighted global perspectives, referencing ISSA Secretary General Marcelo Abi-Ramia Caetano’s view that innovation must go beyond technology to strengthen governance and uphold human dignity.
“Social security systems earn trust not by adopting technology alone, but by using it to expand inclusion and fairness,” Falaye said.
The seminar’s theme, focused on accessibility, inclusiveness, and effective communication, was described as timely and practical rather than abstract.
“Accessibility means reaching workers outside traditional employment structures,” he explained. “Effectiveness means delivering benefits promptly and transparently, while inclusiveness ensures no group is left behind.”Falaye urged participants to engage actively and ensure that discussions translate into actionable outcomes that will improve lives across the region.
“Let us be frank about what works and what does not,” he said. “Our goal must be real impact for workers and employers.”
Also speaking at the event, Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, reinforced the urgency of reform, describing social security as a cornerstone of national development.
“Social security is not merely a safety net,” Dingyadi said. “It is a fundamental pillar for social justice, industrial harmony, and sustainable economic growth.”
He warned that rapid technological changes, the expansion of the informal sector, and shifting employment patterns demand a more responsive and adaptive system.
“The urgency to strengthen our social protection systems cannot be overemphasised,” the minister added, aligning with Falaye’s call for immediate and coordinated action.
