By Chinedu Echianu
Lagos State has approved the full implementation of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS), a major step aimed at strengthening workplace protection and welfare for public sector workers.
The scheme, managed by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), provides financial support to employees or their families in cases of workplace injury, disability, disease, or death.
Managing Director of NSITF, Oluwaseun Faleye, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Head of Service of Lagos State, Bode Agoro, on Thursday.
Faleye said the visit was aimed at establishing a clear and structured pathway for the smooth implementation of the scheme across the state.
He expressed NSITF’s readiness to support Lagos through technical onboarding, advisory services, sensitisation across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Local Government Areas (LGAs), and public institutions, as well as claims processing and occupational safety interventions.
“To ensure momentum, we seek alignment on key areas including the designation of a coordinating office, nomination of a focal person, and the scheduling of a joint technical session within the next two weeks,” Faleye stated.
He emphasized the strategic importance of Lagos, citing its large and diverse workforce, multiple administrative structures, and strong payroll systems as critical factors for successful implementation.
Faleye added that the initiative aligns with the state’s THEMES+ Agenda, particularly in governance, economic sustainability, and health and environmental priorities.
He further noted that the scheme would provide structured protection for workers while also helping employers manage liabilities and improve workplace safety standards.
In his response, Agoro welcomed the initiative and confirmed the state’s commitment to full implementation. He announced the establishment of a dedicated unit within the state’s civil service to oversee and manage the scheme.
The move is expected to enhance worker protection, improve occupational health standards, and strengthen social security systems across Lagos State.
