The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye, has publicly commended the Fund's workforce for driving significant improvements in governance and integrity. He identified their commitment as the cornerstone for enhancing social protection for Nigerian workers.
Staff Resilience Fuels Integrity Leap
In a New Year address to employees, Faleye praised their resilience and professionalism within a demanding operational landscape. He stated that their unwavering dedication has been instrumental in stabilising the Fund and restoring public trust in its core mandate to safeguard workers and their families.
"Your tireless efforts and hard work have been the driving force behind the Fund’s continued progress and stability," Faleye declared. "The work we do is critical because it safeguards workers at their most vulnerable moments."
Record Improvement in ICPC Ethics Scorecard
This commendation follows a remarkable achievement documented in the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) 2025 Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard (EICS). This scorecard is a key benchmark for institutional trust and accountability in public agencies that serve workers.
According to a statement by the Chairman of NSITF’s Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU), Josephine Oamenmade, the Fund's performance saw a dramatic rise. Its EICS score increased from 59 points in 2024 to 71.3 points in 2025. Consequently, its national ranking surged from 186th position to 42nd out of the 357 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) assessed.
This leap in ethical governance is crucial as it directly impacts the efficiency of compensation claim processing, the transparency of benefit payments, and the fairness in resolving disputes between employers and employees.
Furthermore, the NSITF-ACTU itself improved on the ACTU Effectiveness Index, climbing from 76th to 47th position with a score of 64 points, indicating stronger internal control and compliance mechanisms.
Challenges Met with Unity and Focus on Welfare
Faleye acknowledged that the past 17 months presented considerable challenges for both management and staff. However, he emphasised that the workers' resolve ensured the Fund stayed true to its primary objectives.
"These challenges have tested our resolve, but they have also reinforced the importance of unity, integrity, and dedication to duty," he noted. "Together, we have protected the integrity of the Fund and remained committed to the welfare of Nigerian workers."
Addressing staff welfare directly, the Managing Director disclosed that the NSITF Board has approved certain welfare measures based on executive management recommendations, pending necessary regulatory approvals.
"I am mindful of the expectations of our staff, particularly regarding welfare. Management remains committed to addressing these concerns responsibly and sustainably," he assured.
The NSITF-ACTU attributed the integrity gains to enhanced leadership, staff cooperation, and strict adherence to ethical standards, urging all employees to maintain this culture of accountability.
For organised labour and workplace advocates across Nigeria, the transformation at NSITF is a pivotal development. It is being closely monitored as part of broader initiatives to fortify the nation's social insurance framework. This comes at a critical time marked by increasing workplace risks, economic pressures on employees, and a growing demand for robust and effective compensation systems.
