The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, to enhance workplace safety awareness and extend social insurance coverage to informal sector workers.
NSITF Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Oluwaseun Mayomi Faleye, revealed this initiative during a courtesy visit by NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, and her executive team at the NSITF headquarters in Abuja.
Faleye emphasized that the collaboration will drive public awareness campaigns, workplace safety training, and risk assessments for workers across both formal and informal sectors.
“We are committed to improving workplace safety and ensuring that more Nigerians, including those in the informal economy, benefit from our social insurance scheme. This collaboration with the NUJ will help amplify our message and drive greater awareness,” he stated.
He noted that while the formal sector is easier to regulate, informal workers—who make up a significant portion of Nigeria’s economy—often lack access to social insurance. NSITF, he said, is actively working to close this gap through its regional offices.
Faleye also highlighted key reforms within NSITF, including expedited compensation payments, a simplified registration process, and increased workplace inspections to ensure compliance.
Recognizing the media’s role in promoting workplace safety, he urged journalists to help drive conversations around social protection.
“The media is a powerful tool in shaping public understanding. Journalists help highlight crucial issues, and we value their role in educating the public about workplace safety and social protection,” he added.
He also encouraged the NUJ to advocate for media workers’ inclusion in NSITF’s scheme, stressing that journalists often work in high-risk environments and should be covered by social insurance.
NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, commended NSITF for its commitment to occupational safety and worker protection.
“Our visit reaffirms our dedication to raising awareness about NSITF’s crucial role in providing social security and compensation for Nigerian workers. As media professionals, we are eager to partner with NSITF to disseminate accurate information on workers’ rights and responsibilities,” she said.
She proposed joint media initiatives and public enlightenment campaigns to improve access to NSITF services, ensuring a more informed and protected workforce.
The meeting was attended by NUJ FCT executives, including Vice Chairman Comrade Yahaya Ndambabo, Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Treasurer Comrade Sandra Udeike, NUJ Media Platform News Editor Ebriku John Friday, and media team member Mahmud Isa.
