The Lagos State Government and the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing workforce welfare and social protection through the effective implementation of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS).
This commitment was reiterated at a stakeholder workshop focused on strengthening the role of Employee Relations Officers in driving the successful execution of the scheme across Lagos State’s public service.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, described the initiative as a significant milestone in advancing worker protection. He noted that the full adoption of the ECS within the Lagos public service demonstrates a strong institutional commitment to safeguarding workers’ welfare, dignity, and economic security.
Faleye explained that the ECS, established under the Employees’ Compensation Act 2010, provides comprehensive coverage for workplace-related risks, including accidents, occupational diseases, disabilities, and fatalities. The scheme offers medical treatment, rehabilitation support, financial compensation, and assistance to dependents where necessary.
He emphasized that the scheme’s success depends on accurate data management, effective coordination among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), and consistent implementation at operational levels.
According to him, the ECS represents a structured and responsive framework designed to ensure that workers and their families are adequately supported in the event of work-related incidents. He added that a well-implemented compensation system reflects the strength of governance by providing clear processes and reliable institutional backing during unforeseen circumstances.
Faleye also commended Lagos State for its existing administrative capacity, including robust payroll systems and established institutional frameworks. He stressed that the priority should be the seamless integration of the ECS into these existing structures to maximize efficiency and impact.
Representing the Head of Service, Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Sunkanmi Oyegbola, underscored the critical role of MDAs in ensuring the scheme’s success. She urged directors and human resource officers to promote awareness, educate employees, and ensure timely implementation.
In her remarks, the General Manager of Claims and Compensation at NSITF, Nkiru Ede-Ogunnaike, called for the establishment of functional ECS help desks, improved claims processing timelines, and a stronger culture of workplace safety within the public sector.
She further advised Employee Relations Officers to fully understand their responsibilities under the scheme, including timely reporting of workplace incidents, guiding employees through claims procedures, and ensuring prompt remittance of the statutory one per cent payroll contribution.
Both parties expressed confidence that the full implementation of the ECS will enhance workforce security and further position Lagos State as a leader in public sector welfare and social protection in Nigeria.
