The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to a safer Lagos and conducive working environment for all workers in the State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stated this during the commemoration of the second Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health Conference organised by the Lagos State Safety Commission to mark the Year 2022 World Safety Day with the theme: “Act Together to Build a Positive Safety and Health Culture”.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Folasade Jaji, emphasised the importance of health insurance in workplaces, urging all employers of labour to take advantage of the Lagos State Health Scheme for the benefit of their employees and collaborate with the government to tackle Occupational Safety and Health challenges for a safer Lagos. Also speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Engr. Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, remarked that the celebration of the Y2022 World Day of Safety was in tandem with the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration.
He averred that the forum provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate and take stock of safety measures in workplaces. In a similar vein, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Sesan Ogundeko, represented by Dr. Folake Animashaun, posited that the conference was designed to enhance the sharing of ideas on how to avoid injuries and occupational hazards in all working environments in the State. He lauded the efforts of the Lagos State Safety Commission in propagating the health and safety culture of the State Government, adding that the Ministry will continue to render all necessary support to the Commission in ensuring the health and safety of all Lagosians.
Delivering his address, the Director-General of the Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, declared that the Commission has been collaborating with individuals and corporate entities to actualise the vision of creating a safe and healthy work environment through effective dialogue and active involvement of stakeholders in the development, formulation and revision of Occupational Safety and Health Frameworks, Policies and Strategies.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget (MEPB), Mr. Sam Egube, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic Planning and Budget, Aare Adebayo Sodade, as well as the Country Director, International Labour Organisation (ILO), Mrs. Vanessa Phalla. While the Special Adviser applauded the Safety Commission for its commitment towards a healthier and safer Lagos, the Country Director, ILO, disclosed that the body is collaborating with the Federal Government to ratify legislation on Occupational Safety and Health. Mrs. Phalla commended the government for its concerted efforts on safety, urging more States to emulate Lagos by setting up Safety Commission Agencies.