NSITF, Taraba State Seal Partnership to Strengthen Workers’ Compensation Compliance

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and Taraba State have agreed to deepen collaboration aimed at expanding employees’ compensation compliance and improving workplace social protection systems.

The agreement was discussed during a courtesy visit by NSITF Managing Director and Chief Executive, Oluwaseun Faleye, to Agbu Kefas at the Government House in Jalingo Government House on February 26, 2026.

Faleye described the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS) as a critical social protection mechanism designed to safeguard workers’ welfare in the event of injury, disability, or death arising from workplace activities.

He said the scheme is not only a statutory obligation but also a tool for strengthening public trust in governance and promoting industrial stability.

The NSITF chief proposed practical measures to expand ECS coverage across state Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including intensified employer sensitization, workplace safety awareness campaigns, and improved compliance monitoring.

He also recommended the appointment of a focal coordination officer or ministry to interface with the NSITF, as well as the establishment of a joint technical implementation team to develop a short-term action roadmap.

Faleye further suggested integrating the ECS Compliance Certificate into Taraba State procurement and contracting processes. Under the proposal, companies bidding for state projects, registering as contractors, or entering public-private partnership arrangements would be required to show proof of NSITF compliance.

He stressed that the framework would not introduce new legal obligations but would reinforce existing statutory requirements on worker protection.
During the visit, Faleye conferred on Governor Kefas the title of “Ambassador and Advocate of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme” in Taraba State and the North-East region.

Responding, Governor Kefas welcomed the initiative and affirmed the state’s commitment to the scheme, directing coordination through the Office of the Head of Service, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Local Government.

The governor disclosed that the state had paid about ₦5 billion in pension obligations and expressed optimism that outstanding entitlements would be cleared before the end of the year.

He also approved the formation of a high-powered committee to work with the NSITF toward full compliance with the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, reiterating the state government’s commitment to workers’ welfare and institutional collaboration.