Lagos marks 2026 World Safety Day, highlights psychosocial well‑being

Politics

LAGOS, Nigeria (NPA) — The Lagos State Safety Commission has joined the global community to commemorate World Safety Day, reaffirming its commitment to promoting safer and healthier workplaces across the state.

In a statement issued on April 28, Director‑General Lanre Mojola congratulated workers, employers, and safety advocates worldwide, describing the day as a reminder of the need to prioritise occupational safety. He noted that work‑related accidents and illnesses remain significant global challenges despite growing awareness.

Mojola explained that the observance, championed by the United Nations and the International Labour Organisation, provides an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen preventive measures, share best practices, and renew commitments to safeguarding workers.

Highlighting this year’s theme, “Good Psychosocial Working Environments: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,” Mojola stressed that workplace safety must extend beyond physical protection to include mental well‑being, effective workload management, role clarity, and a positive organisational culture. He said the focus is on reducing psychosocial hazards such as excessive workload, poor communication, lack of support, and inadequate reward systems.

He urged organisations to view employees as partners, not merely resources, and emphasised the importance of flexible work arrangements, respect for work‑life boundaries, and avoiding demands outside official hours. He also advocated for Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling services, and stress management initiatives, noting that empathy and flexible schedules are essential in preventing burnout.

Mojola reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to fostering a robust safety culture by encouraging organisations to adopt modern tools and proactive strategies to reduce workplace incidents. He added that the annual commemoration underscores the importance of continuous learning, strategic planning, and sustained commitment to safety practices.

The Director‑General urged employers, employees, and stakeholders to use the observance to reassess safety protocols and invest in systems that protect lives while enhancing productivity. He reiterated that ensuring safe and healthy work environments is a shared responsibility requiring collective action and innovation.