Mr Oluwaseun Faleye, the Managing Director, Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), says the Fund will partner with key stakeholders to strengthen social protection systems.

Faleye said this on Tuesday in Abuja at a news conference on the upcoming 2026 International Social Security Association (ISSA) West Africa Technical Seminar scheduled to hold from April 22 to 23 in Abuja.

Faleye said the seminar themed “Improving Inclusiveness and Accessibility of Social Security Services through Effective Communication,” was aimed at addressing gaps in social security coverage across West Africa.

He said the event would bring together policymakers, social security institutions, employers and workers’ representatives from across the subregion to develop practical solutions for improving service delivery.

According to him, Nigeria has recorded progress in strengthening its social security framework, particularly through the Employees’ Compensation Scheme and expanded workplace injury coverage.

He emphasised the need to deepen coverage, simplify access and improve engagement with employers and workers, especially in the informal sector.

“The question is no longer whether social security is important, but how effectively we are delivering it,” he said.

Faleye said the seminar would also promote regional collaboration and peer learning, noting that West African countries share similar economic and labour market realities.

“The participating organisations will include the Federal Ministry of Labour, PENCOM, NECA, MAN, NLC, TUC, UNESCO and the ILO, among others.”

The managing director also emphasised the importance of effective communication in building trust, increasing awareness and expanding access to social security services.

He said the seminar was expected to generate practical insights, strengthen institutional partnerships and enhance service delivery across the region.

“The goal is to move from coverage in theory to coverage in reality,” he said.