AfriPulse
The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FML&E) South-South Zonal office, in collaboration ŵith the National Industriàl Safety Council of Nigerià (NISCN) marked the 2026 Word Day for Safety and Health at Work with a theme focusing on healthy mental Work Environment.
The event held Tuesday at the Federal Secretariat, Port Harcourt, also featured awards to companies and individuals including Jossy Nkwocha, immediate past Group Head, Corporate Communications of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals and Fertilizer Group.
Speeches of Muhammadu Dingyadi, minister of Labour and Employment, and the Permanent Secretary, read by B. B. Pepple, dwelt on the theme: “Let’s Ensure a Healthy Psychosocial Working Environment.”
The Minister’s keynote address delivered by Einifred Emy-Nkwota, the South-South Zonal Director, stated that the theme highlights the evolving nature of work and the urgent need to strengthen occupational safety and health, especially in the area of mental and emotional health.
Stanley Ologun, Chairman of the occasion, who is Chairman of NISCN in Rivers State, in his opening remarks noted thus; “For decades our understanding of workplace safety has largely focused on physical hazards — machinery, chemicals, and environmental risks. While these remain critically important, we now recognise that the health of workers extends far beyond the physical. The psychological and social conditions under which people work are equally vital to their productivity, dignity, and overall wellbeing.
“A psychologically healthy workplace is one where workers feel valued, respected, and supported. It is a place where communication is open, workloads are manageable, roles are clearly defined, and individuals are protected from harassment, discrimination, and undue stress.”
There were three presentations to help everyone understand the gravity of the theme. The first titled “Ensuring a healthy Psychosocial Working Environment was delivered by Olatunji Omowunmi. The second presentation by Fasusi Olayinka and the third titled “Toolbox in aiding a good Psychosocial Working Environment” by Phil Neji.
All the presentations focused on the prevention of toxic work environments that trigger mental and emotional ill-health; and how Human Resources (HR) departments of workplaces can monitor workers’ wellbeing against symptoms of mental and emotional distress.
Another key highlight of the event was the presentation of Award plaques to organisations that have continued to support commemoration of the World Day of Safety and Health at Work, including Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals and Fertilizer Group, Boskel Industries, among others.
The individual category included Nkwocha, currently CEO of Reputation Masters Limited.
According to the plaque presented to him, the AWARD is “in recognition of your meritorious service, steadfast support, and significant role over the years in strengthening partnership and promoting the success of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.”
“I am humbled and thankful to you that the Ministry and Council still remembered whatever I did even after I left office,” Nkwocha further said.
In the vote of thanks to bring the event to a close, Collins Owhonda, chief Inspector of Factories, thanked all the organisations that attended the event and stated that the ministry will now beam its searchlight on the prevention of mental and emotional ill-health in the workplace.
Source: Businessday.ng | Read the Full Story…
