…Bureau extends health awareness drive to Lagos personnel

By Chioma Obinna

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB, has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to aviation safety by investing in the holistic well-being of its staff with its recent one-day training programme titled “Selfcare as a Foundation for Health and Wellness” in Lagos.

This initiative, executed in collaboration with D’Bio Wellness and Selfcare and Lusong QSE Ltd., builds on a similar successful program previously held for staff in Abuja.

The intensive training featured insightful presentations from seasoned facilitators, delving into critical aspects of mental health, nutrition, and practical self-care strategies.

The programme was spearheaded by Dr. Monica Hemben Eimunjeze, the convener of the D’Bio Wellness and Selfcare Summit.

She was joined by Dr. Olajumoke Koyejo, a Consultant Psychiatrist, and Ms. Obianuju Chukuwuemeka, a registered Dietitian-Nutritionist.

In  a press statement, the NSIB highlighted the core philosophy driving the programme: “This program underscores the Bureau’s priority of staff welfare and the imperative to equip NSIB personnel with the skills and knowledge necessary to enhance their productivity and effectiveness in fulfilling their mandated roles.”

The Bureau emphasised that recognising its pivotal role in advancing aviation safety, the training was designed to proactively support staff well-being.

Participants gained crucial knowledge on the importance of self-care, mental health, and a nutritious diet in fostering overall well-being. A significant emphasis was placed on maintaining a healthy work-life balance and its profound effects on mental health. Attendees were also educated on various symptoms indicative of mental disorders and measures to prevent workplace-induced mental health issues through improved organisational culture and relationships.

Discussions during the programme also illuminated the vital nature of the seven pillars of self-care advocated by the International Selfcare Foundation: knowledge and health literacy, mental well-being, physical activity, healthy eating, risk avoidance, good hygiene, and the rational use of products and services.

Participants were strongly encouraged to adopt intentional and consistent steps toward their self-care goals.

Eimunjeze and her team provided participants with invaluable insights into self-care practices, mental health, and nutrition, empowering them to proactively manage their overall wellness,” the N

statement noted.

The Bureau believed that its focus on self-care and mental health awareness extends beyond internal benefits, positively impacting the broader public and aviation safety standards.

 “By equipping NSIB personnel with essential skills for improved wellbeing, the Bureau fosters a culture of health and wellness, which is vital for enhancing aviation safety standards,” the agency explained.

The NSIB further highlighted the direct correlation between employee well-being and operational efficiency: “Employees who are mentally healthy and adept at managing stress are more likely to excel in their responsibilities, facilitating efficient operations and sound NSIB is setting a commendable benchmark for other organisations, promoting a comprehensive understanding of the significance of mental health and self-care in boosting productivity and safety across the aviation sector and beyond.