By Victor Ahiuma-Young, LAGOS

Civil servants in Lagos State are set to benefit from a comprehensive safety net as the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), in partnership with the state government, moves to fully implement the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) across the public service.

Managing Director/Chief Executive of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, disclosed this during a sensitisation workshop for Employee Relations Officers drawn from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Lagos.

Faleye assured the state government of the Fund’s readiness to provide the technical, operational, and institutional support required for the seamless rollout of the scheme.
“Let me assure you that NSITF remains fully committed to supporting this process. We bring not only the legal mandate but also the technical expertise, operational experience, and systems needed to ensure effective implementation,” he said.

He added that the Fund would work closely with MDAs, offering continuous guidance to ensure the success of the initiative.
According to him, the workshop was designed to equip key officers with practical knowledge on the scheme, including its benefits, compliance requirements, payroll processes, and their roles in driving implementation.

Faleye described the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, established under the Employees’ Compensation Act of 2010, as more than a regulatory obligation, noting that it is a structured system aimed at protecting workers against workplace accidents, occupational diseases, disabilities, and death.
He explained that the scheme provides medical care, rehabilitation services, compensation for temporary or permanent disability, and financial support to dependents in the event of death arising from work-related incidents.

“At its core, the scheme represents a commitment that when the unexpected occurs, the system will respond with clarity and responsibility. It ensures that no worker or family bears the burden alone,” he stated.
The NSITF boss noted that Lagos already has strong institutional frameworks and efficient payroll systems, stressing that the focus would be on integrating the compensation scheme into existing structures to enhance effectiveness.

He emphasised that the initiative would strengthen workforce confidence, improve risk management within government institutions, and demonstrate a practical commitment to workers’ welfare.

“This training is the outcome of strategic engagement between NSITF and the Lagos State Government to ensure those responsible for implementation have the capacity to translate policy into action,” he said, expressing confidence that Lagos would set the pace for other states.

In a vote of thanks, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to leading in the implementation of the scheme. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mrs. Sunkanmi Oyegbola, Agoro said Lagos would ensure that workers enjoy the full benefits of the ECS.

“Lagos, as the Centre of Excellence, will continue to set the pace by driving the Employees’ Compensation Scheme and ensuring that workers get the best it offers,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the scheme would give workers peace of mind and encourage greater dedication to duty, while also urging directors and heads of human resources in MDAs to take ownership of the process.

Agoro further disclosed that an NSITF desk office would be established in the state to ensure smooth and effective implementation of the scheme.