Nigeria is stepping up its leadership in social protection as Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) partners with other West African countries to strengthen social security systems and improve access for millions of workers.
The initiative will take center stage at the upcoming ISSA West Africa Technical Seminar 2026, set to hold in Abuja.
A Regional Push for Better Social Protection
The seminar will bring together key stakeholders across the region, including:
- Social security institutions
- Policymakers
- Employers and workers’ representatives
- Development partners
The goal? To rethink how social security is delivered and ensure it becomes more inclusive, accessible, and effective.
Why This Seminar Matters Now
According to NSITF Managing Director, Oluwaseun Faleye, the theme—“Improving Inclusiveness and Accessibility of Social Security Services through Effective Communication”—goes beyond theory.
It addresses a critical issue:
Many workers, especially in the informal sector, are still left out of social security systems.
Across West Africa, millions remain uncovered—not because systems don’t exist, but because they are:
- Poorly understood
- Difficult to access
- Lacking public trust
Nigeria’s Progress — And the Gaps
Nigeria has made notable strides in strengthening its social security framework, particularly through initiatives like the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, which expands coverage for workplace injuries.
However, Faleye admits more needs to be done:
- Coverage must deepen
- Processes must become simpler
- Engagement with workers and employers must improve
Communication: The Missing Link
A major focus of the seminar is the power of communication in driving adoption.
Faleye emphasized that communication is not just an add-on—it is central to building trust and expanding coverage.
In simple terms:
People can’t benefit from what they don’t understand.
Strong Partnerships Driving Change
The event will feature participation from major institutions, including:
- Federal Ministry of Labour
- National Pension Commission
- Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association
- Manufacturers Association of Nigeria
- Nigeria Labour Congress
- Trade Union Congress of Nigeria
- UNESCO
- International Labour Organization
These collaborations highlight the shared responsibility required to build a stronger social security system.
Tackling a Regional Challenge Together
West Africa shares similar realities:
- Large informal economies
- Young and mobile populations
- Rapidly changing labour markets
This makes collaboration essential—not copying global models, but developing solutions tailored to local needs.
What to Expect from the Seminar
The 2026 ISSA West Africa Technical Seminar is expected to deliver:
- Practical strategies for improving service delivery
- Stronger regional collaboration
- Real-world communication approaches that drive participation
Ultimately, the aim is clear:
Move social security from policy to real-life impact.
