The Rivers State Government says it is concluding arrangements to enrol its workforce into the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) managed by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), a move aimed at strengthening workplace safety and welfare in the state.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Benibo Anabraba, disclosed this on Thursday while receiving executive members of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Rivers State Council, during a courtesy visit to his office in Port Harcourt.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations in the SSG’s office, Dr. Juliana Masi.
Anabraba said the state has already begun reviewing key policies guiding the scheme.
Once given final approval by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the initiative will ensure medical treatment, rehabilitation, and compensation for workers who suffer injuries or illnesses in the line of duty.
In cases of fatal workplace accidents, the scheme will also provide financial support to beneficiaries.
“We have met with the management of the NSITF and are intentional about the commencement of the scheme in Rivers State,” the SSG said. “The welfare of workers remains a top priority of this administration, and we will undertake this scheme to ensure that employees injured during service receive adequate care and support.”
He emphasised that Governor Fubara is committed to making Rivers State fully compliant with the ECS and disclosed that private-sector operators—especially those in high-risk industries like construction—would also be integrated to strengthen workplace protection across the state.
Beyond worker welfare, Anabraba raised concerns about environmental and safety hazards caused by truck drivers who park indiscriminately along major roads.
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He urged the TUC to sensitise its affiliate unions—such as the shipping, clearing, forwarding, quarry, and transport groups—on the need to obey state traffic laws. He warned that the government may be forced to take decisive action if the trend continues.
His comments come months after the NSITF Managing Director, Oluwaseun Faleye, vowed in March 2025 to intensify enforcement to ensure compliance among states, ministries, departments, and private employers.
Faleye noted then that the Federal Government has renewed its commitment to ensuring that Nigerian workers across all sectors benefit from the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.
The Rivers Government’s move is expected to improve workplace safety, strengthen protection for employees, and align the state with national labour standards.