— As Minister urges action on workplace mental health

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

THE Federal Government, has said Nigeria currently faces significant challenges in Occupational Safety and Health, OSH, ranging from inadequate safety standards to limited awareness creation and training, unreported industrial accidents, occupational diseases, weak legislation and policy enforcement.

But the government assured that it was committed to changing the narrative by bringing together diverse stakeholders to promote the adoption of a safety-first mindset and encourage the development of a resilient safety and health culture in organisations and industries.

Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha,  who disclosed at the opening of the maiden Occupational Safety and Health, OSH summit in Abuja, called for the urgent need to address workplace mental health.

The minister emphasised the importance of mental health in creating a safe and healthy work environment.

She said that a supportive work environment remains key to fostering mental health and creating an opportunity for both employers and employees to thrive.

According to her, “Currently, Nigeria faces significant challenges in Occupational Safety and Health ranging from inadequate safety standards to limited awareness creation and training, unreported industrial accidents, occupational diseases, weak legislation and policy enforcement.

“However, we are committed to changing the narrative by bringing together diverse stakeholders to promote the adoption of a safety-first mindset and encourage the development of a resilient safety and health culture in organisations and industries.

“This year, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, has lined up various activities for the summit to promote a safe and healthy working environment. These include exhibitions, paper presentations, and discussions by key stakeholders in the safety business.

“By addressing key risks and emerging issues in the world of work and sharing knowledge, experiences, and innovative solutions, the ultimate goal is to build a comprehensive National Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) management system that is effective, efficient, sustainable, and inclusive.

“It is also worthy of note that mental health issues at the workplace be addressed. The campaign on the just concluded World Mental Health Day held on the 10th October 2024 with the theme: “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace”, highlights the vital connection between mental health and work, and emphasises the need for a safe and healthy working environment to protect and support the mental well-being of workers.

“A supportive work environment fosters mental health, purpose and stability. Thus, by prioritizing mental health in the workplace, employers and employees have the opportunity to thrive at work and in life.”

The OSH summit , with the theme, “National Occupational Safety and Health Management System,” was aimed to address critical issues such as inadequate safety standards, limited awareness, and weak policy enforcement.

The summit also served as a platform to introduce key initiatives aimed at improving workplace safety, including the unveiling of Nigeria’s Country Profile on OSH 2024, the Construction and Allied Works (Safety) Regulation 2024, and the National Workplace Emergency Preparedness and Response Guide.

According to Onyejeocha, these new regulations are expected to strengthen safety protocols and enhance collaboration among employers, workers and regulators.

She acknowledged the International Labour Organisation (ILO)  for its role in supporting Nigeria’s efforts through technical and financial assistance, particularly in the development and implementation of relevant conventions and policies that ensure safe and healthy work environments.

She, however,, called for continuous collaboration to achieve the highest standards of safety, health, and well-being for Nigerian workers, stressing that mental health must be integrated into broader occupational safety strategies.

In his remarks, Nyamali John, director overseeing the office of the permanent secretary said, “As we all know, Nigeria is experiencing rapid industrialization, urbanization, and expansion across multiple sectors. However, with this growth comes the responsibility to protect our workforce from hazards and risks. associated with their jobs.

“The statistics surrounding workplace accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases remind us of the urgency of this task. We must implement policies and practices that prioritize our workers’ safety, health, and well-being. This summit is the beginning of a collaborative journey towards creating safe and healthy working environments for all Nigerians.

“Our vision is clear: to create a Nigeria where every worker returns home safely at the end of each day, where occupational hazards are minimised, and where workplace wellness is integrated into the national consciousness.

“The solutions we seek will require cooperation, innovation, and a steadfast commitment from all of us-employers, employees, regulators, and policymakers.

“Together, we can build a culture of prevention, protection, and preparedness that ensures the well-being of our workers”.