The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has reiterated her commitment to addressing the challenges facing the National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria (NISCN). This pledge was made on Monday when a delegation from the Council, led by its Secretary, Mr. Ndubuisi Nwachukwu Job, visited her office to discuss issues concerning the Council’s operations and its suspension during the previous administration.
The delegation, representing the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) division of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, briefed the minister on the hurdles encountered by the Council. One major point raised was the suspension of its operations, which has hindered the Council’s capacity to enforce safety standards and promote occupational health across industries in Nigeria.
Minister Onyejeocha, in response, assured the Council of her administration’s unwavering support and promised swift action to resolve their complaints. She expressed concern over the lingering issues and emphasized the importance of the Council in fostering workplace safety and ensuring compliance with OSH standards across various industries.
Via her official X account, Minister Onyejeocha disclosed the details of her meeting with the delegation, expressing optimism about reviving the Council’s operations. “Occupational safety is a top priority for this administration, and I will ensure that the National Industrial Safety Council is equipped to continue its important work,” she said.
The National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria plays a crucial role in safeguarding the health and safety of workers in diverse sectors. By enforcing OSH standards, the Council aims to prevent workplace accidents, promote safe working environments, and enhance the welfare of the Nigerian workforce.
However, in recent years, the Council has faced significant setbacks, including operational inefficiencies and bureaucratic obstacles that led to its suspension during the previous administration. These issues have limited the Council’s ability to fulfill its mandate of ensuring compliance with occupational safety guidelines and preventing workplace hazards.
Minister Onyejeocha emphasized the need for swift intervention to reinstate the Council’s activities. “I will personally oversee the resolution of these challenges to ensure that the Council is back on its feet and fully functional,” she assured the delegation.
The meeting between the minister and the NISCN delegation marks a critical step toward restoring Nigeria’s occupational safety framework. Minister Onyejeocha stressed the importance of cooperation between the government and industry stakeholders to uphold global safety standards. She highlighted that the safety and well-being of Nigerian workers should remain a top priority as the country strives to achieve sustainable development goals.
Her engagement with the NISCN aligns with the broader objectives of the Ministry of Labour and Employment under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which prioritizes the enhancement of workplace safety and employee welfare. Through this renewed focus, the Ministry aims to foster a culture of safety, encourage the adoption of modern safety practices, and create safer working environments for Nigerians across various sectors.
Minister Nkeiruka Onyejeocha’s proactive stance in addressing the challenges facing the National Industrial Safety Council is a positive signal for the future of occupational safety in Nigeria. As the Ministry of Labour and Employment takes steps to revitalize the Council, there is hope that the Council’s activities will resume, leading to enhanced safety measures across industries.
The minister’s commitment to resolving the long-standing issues facing the NISCN demonstrates her dedication to ensuring that workplace safety remains a key component of the Ministry’s agenda. By focusing on safety standards and promoting worker well-being, the Ministry is poised to strengthen Nigeria’s labour framework and align with international best practices.
