Reps Summon Labour Minister Over NSITF Board Inauguration Delays

House of Representatives Summons Labour Minister Over NSITF Board Inauguration Delays

The House of Representatives has summoned the Minister of Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, over the delayed inauguration of the new board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). Lawmakers are seeking an explanation for the prolonged delay, which they argue is hindering the smooth operations of the agency.

The decision to summon the minister follows mounting concerns about the leadership vacuum at NSITF, which plays a critical role in providing social security coverage for Nigerian workers. The House Committee on Labour, Employment, and Productivity expressed frustration over the delay, emphasizing that the absence of a properly constituted board is affecting the agency’s ability to function effectively.

According to reports, the federal government had approved a new board for NSITF, but its inauguration has been stalled for months without a clear reason. Lawmakers argue that this delay has raised questions about governance and accountability within the agency, which manages funds meant to support workers in cases of workplace injuries, disabilities, or other job-related risks.

During a recent session, members of the House expressed concern that the delay could disrupt NSITF’s ability to fulfill its mandate. They pointed out that the agency is responsible for implementing the Employees’ Compensation Scheme, a program designed to provide compensation to workers in the event of workplace-related incidents. Without a functioning board, key decisions regarding worker compensation and social security benefits are being delayed.

The committee stated that summoning the Labour Minister was necessary to provide clarity on why the board has not been inaugurated despite the government’s approval. Lawmakers want assurances that there are no political or administrative obstacles preventing the new board from taking office. They also intend to investigate whether internal disagreements or bureaucratic challenges are contributing to the delay.

Stakeholders in the labour sector have also voiced their concerns about the situation. Labour unions and workers’ associations have urged the government to expedite the process, warning that any further delay could undermine confidence in the NSITF’s ability to operate transparently. Some union leaders have accused the government of neglecting workers’ welfare by failing to ensure proper oversight of the agency.

The NSITF has faced governance challenges in the past, including allegations of financial mismanagement and administrative inefficiencies. Lawmakers are particularly keen on ensuring that the new board is inaugurated promptly to restore confidence in the agency’s operations. They believe that a properly constituted board will improve transparency, enhance service delivery, and ensure that workers’ contributions are managed efficiently.

The House of Representatives has given the Labour Minister a deadline to appear before the committee and provide an update on the status of the board’s inauguration. Lawmakers are expected to question her on the reasons for the delay and demand a concrete timeline for the board’s formal induction.

This development reflects ongoing efforts by the legislature to hold government agencies accountable and ensure that key institutions operate without unnecessary bureaucratic bottlenecks. The outcome of the minister’s appearance before the House will likely determine the next steps, as lawmakers push for swift action to resolve the impasse.