The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund NSITF has announced plans to intensify legal enforcement against employers who fail to comply with the Employees Compensation Scheme ECS.
The Fund said the step has become necessary to protect the rights and welfare of workers across the country.
The Managing Director of NSITF, Dr Michael Akabogu, explained that the Fund will no longer rely solely on persuasion to ensure employers meet their statutory obligations. According to him, “We have been engaging employers for years on the importance of the Employees Compensation Scheme, but we are now moving beyond moral persuasion to full enforcement in line with the law.”
Dr Akabogu noted that many employers are still defaulting in remitting their contributions despite several engagements and awareness campaigns. He stressed that the NSITF has the legal backing to prosecute organisations that fail to register and contribute as mandated. He added that non compliance deprives employees of compensation in the event of workplace injuries, disabilities, or death.
He further disclosed that the Fund will collaborate with the Ministry of Labour and Employment and other regulatory bodies to ensure strict enforcement. “We are working with relevant authorities to ensure that every employer fulfils their obligation to workers. Compliance is not optional but compulsory,” he stated.
The NSITF boss emphasised that the renewed enforcement drive aims to secure social security for Nigerian workers and to ensure they receive compensation when the need arises. He encouraged employers to comply voluntarily before sanctions begin, urging them to prioritise the wellbeing of their workforce.
The Fund assured workers that it remains committed to delivering its mandate of protecting employees across all sectors through the Employees Compensation Scheme. It also called on workers to verify if their employers are registered with the NSITF and report cases of non compliance.
