The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has revealed that more than 150 people lost their lives in construction-related accidents across the country in 2024.
Managing Director of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, disclosed this on Wednesday during his presentation at the 69th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Construction Industry, held in Abuja.
Faleye described the figure as a grim reminder of the risks in the sector, noting that Nigeria records between 50 and 70 major construction accidents annually. These, he said, range from building collapses to falls and machinery-related injuries.
“The Nigerian Safety Commission reported over 150 fatalities linked to construction site accidents last year alone,” Faleye stated.
He stressed the urgent need for stronger health and safety practices within the industry, calling for rigorous audits, strict compliance with safety standards, and continuous capacity building for workers.
Faleye urged construction firms to work closely with the NSITF’s health, safety, and environment unit on audits, training, and preventive measures. According to him, fostering a proactive safety culture is key to reducing accidents and safeguarding lives.
“The NSITF remains committed to supporting safety initiatives through audits, certification processes, and enforcement of standards,” he said. “A resilient construction industry depends on a healthy and protected workforce.”