Ofure Akhigbe
The Rivers State Government on Thursday said it is finalising plans to enrol its workforce in the Employees’ Compensation Scheme managed by the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund.
The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Benibo Anabraba, disclosed this when he received executive members of the Trade Union Congress, Rivers State Council, during a courtesy visit to his office in Port Harcourt.
This was contained in a statement issued on Thursday in Port Harcourt by the Head, Information and Public Relations Unit, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Juliana Masi.
Anabraba said the state government was reviewing the policies of the scheme which, pending final approval by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, would guarantee medical care and rehabilitation for employees who become ill or sustain injuries in the course of their duties. In cases of fatal accidents, the scheme provides compensation to beneficiaries.
“We have met with the management of the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund and are intentional about the commencement of the scheme in Rivers State,” he said. “The welfare of workers remains a top priority of this administration, and we will undertake this scheme to ensure that workers who get injured or are involved in accidents in the line of duty receive care and support, including instilling a sense of security in service.”
He noted that the governor was committed to ensuring the state adopts the scheme and said the government would also partner with private-sector operators, particularly in the construction industry, as part of their operational requirements in the state.
Anabraba also expressed concern over the indiscriminate parking of trucks along major roads, describing it as a nuisance that endangers road users and harms the environment. He urged the TUC to sensitise its affiliates—including the Association of Shipping, Clearing and Forwarding Agencies; the Union of Tipper and Quarry Employers; and the Road Transport Employers Association—on the dangers of illegal parking and the need to comply with state traffic laws. He warned that the government might be forced to take decisive action if the situation persists.
Recall that in March 2025, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, Oluwaseun Faleye, announced stricter enforcement measures to address non-compliance among states and employers. Speaking at a media parley with the Labour Correspondents Association of Nigeria and during the launch of an enlightenment and enrolment campaign, Faleye emphasised efforts to boost compliance among Ministries, Departments and Agencies, noting the Federal Government’s increased interest in ensuring employees are adequately covered under the scheme.