From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has assured the Lagos State Government of its readiness to provide the necessary technical and operational support for the effective and seamless implementation of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) in the state.
The assurance was given by the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Barr. Oluwaseun Falaye, during a sensitisation workshop for Employee Relations Officers of Lagos State Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), held on Wednesday in Lagos.
Falaye, in a statement made available to The Triumph in Abuja by the management of the Fund, said NSITF remained fully committed to supporting the implementation process.
“We bring not only the legal and institutional mandate, but also the technical expertise, operational experience, and systems required to ensure effective and seamless implementation. We will continue to work closely with all MDAs, providing guidance and support at every stage,” he said.
He explained that the workshop was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge of the Scheme, including its benefits, compliance requirements, payroll processes, payment schedules, and the roles expected of them in ensuring successful implementation.
Falaye noted that the theme of the workshop, “The Role of the Employee Relations Officer in Ensuring Effective Implementation of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme,” underscores the central role of personnel officers in translating policy into action.
According to him, the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, administered under the Employees’ Compensation Act of 2010, is aimed at protecting workers against workplace accidents, injuries, occupational diseases, disabilities, and death arising from employment.
He added that the Scheme also provides medical care, rehabilitation, and financial compensation for affected workers or their dependents.
Falaye further stated that Lagos State already possesses strong administrative and payroll systems, noting that what is required is the effective integration of the Scheme into existing structures.
He said the initiative followed a strategic engagement between NSITF and the Lagos State Government, which led to the decision to fully implement the Scheme across the state’s public service.
He expressed confidence that full implementation would enhance workforce security, strengthen governance risk management, and demonstrate government commitment to workers’ welfare.
In his remarks, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, commended the initiative, describing Lagos as the “Centre of Excellence” that continues to set the pace in public service reforms.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mrs. Sunkanmi Oyegbola, he said Lagos would ensure effective implementation of the Scheme across MDAs.
She expressed optimism that the ECS would provide workers with greater peace of mind and urged human resource officers to take ownership of the implementation process.
She also disclosed that an NSITF desk office would be established in the state to enhance coordination and smooth implementation of the Scheme.
