Two major workers’ unions at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) have expressed strong support for ongoing reforms within the agency, describing the current management’s actions as ushering in a new era of accountability, efficiency, and employee-focused governance.
In a joint letter addressed to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammadu Dingyadi, the Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI) and the National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees (NUBIFIE) commended the management for its commitment to transparency and the renewal of the Fund’s operations.
The letter, jointly signed by ASSBIFI President, Mr. Bala Tijani, and NUBIFIE Chairman, Mr. Simon Wenzamma, stated that employees were beginning to feel the positive effects of reforms designed to make the NSITF more responsive and efficient.
One of the most significant decisions lauded by the unions was the termination of the controversial E-NSITF digitalisation contract, which had long faced opposition from staff. According to the unions, the project was technically flawed, lacked tangible value, and consumed public resources without measurable outcomes. They described its cancellation as “a bold step in the right direction that deserves the support of all,” noting that it aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda of transparency and accountability.
ASSBIFI and NUBIFIE also commended the ongoing efforts to amend the NSITF Act 1993 and the Employees’ Compensation Act 2010, describing both laws as outdated and inconsistent with current realities. Updating the legislation, they argued, would strengthen the Fund’s mandate and enable it to provide better protection for Nigerian workers—especially those injured, disabled, or killed in the course of their duties.
The unions credited Dr. Dingyadi’s oversight for fostering a more sustainable work environment and promoting decent work principles. They said his leadership had empowered the management to pursue critical reforms without fear or favour.
However, the unions condemned what they described as blackmail and misinformation campaigns orchestrated by individuals opposed to change. They urged the Minister to disregard such smear tactics and continue supporting the management’s efforts to reposition the NSITF for greater transparency, accountability, and service delivery to Nigerian workers.
