NSITF, Civil Society Groups Urge Senate to Fast-Track Social Security Trust Fund Bill

The push to strengthen Nigeria’s social protection architecture received a major boost on Monday as the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG) jointly voiced strong support for the swift passage of the proposed Nigeria Social Security Trust Fund Bill, 2025.
At a public hearing convened by the Senate Committee on Labour and Employment at the National Assembly, stakeholders—including organised labour, employer associations, civil society organisations, and government agencies—unanimously described the bill as a historic milestone towards establishing a unified, modern and efficient social security system for Nigerian workers.
Speaking at the session, Oluwaseun Faleye, Managing Director/Chief Executive of NSITF, said the bill marks a decisive step toward updating Nigeria’s social security structure in line with global benchmarks such as the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention, 1952 (No. 102) and the Tripartite Consultation Convention, 1976 (No. 144).
Faleye noted that the proposed legislation will finally eliminate long-standing structural conflicts arising from the co-existence of the NSITF Act of 1993 and the Employees’ Compensation Act (ECA) 2010, especially after the Pension Reform Act 2014 reassigned pension functions to the National Pension Commission.
“The consolidation of both Acts into a single, coherent statute is timely, necessary, and commendable. It removes duplication, clarifies responsibilities, and strengthens the legal framework needed for the Fund to perform optimally,”he said.
He also welcomed the proposed change of name to the Nigeria Social Security Trust Fund, explaining that removing the term “insurance” would enhance public acceptance; particularly in communities where the term has cultural limitations.
One of the most celebrated provisions is the expansion of social security coverage to workers in the informal sector, artisans, freelancers, and self-employed Nigerians: an inclusion Faleye described as a historic step toward universal protection.
Other components commended include:
Electronic submission of claims to reduce delays
Recognition of multiple spouses and dependants in line with Nigerian cultural realities
Creation of trust accounts for minors
Inclusion of traditional medical practitioners in workers’ treatment options
Authority for the board to update occupational diseases schedules
Stricter workplace safety standards and penalties for non-compliance
Legal protection of the Fund from external deductions
Permission to expand investments, including into real estate
However, NSITF also flagged concerns about the inconsistent use of the word “board” within the bill, warning that the current terminology could blur governance roles and affect accountability. Faleye urged lawmakers to adopt clearer distinctions similar to those in the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Act.
Complementing NSITF’s position, the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG) also took the floor to express strong backing for the speedy passage of the bill. Speaking on behalf of the coalition, CSGGG representatives described the proposed law as progressive, people-centered, and crucial for protecting workers; particularly those in vulnerable and informal sectors.
CSGGG applauded the Senate for its proactive approach and affirmed that civil society organisations stand ready to engage, monitor and support the implementation of the Act once passed.
“This bill is a major leap toward safeguarding the welfare, dignity and economic resilience of Nigerian workers. We urge the Senate to fast-track its passage in the interest of national development,” the group said.
Faleye concluded by assuring lawmakers that NSITF remains available to provide technical assistance as the National Assembly prepares its final report.
With wide endorsement from labour unions, employers, civil society, and regulatory bodies, the Senate’s work on the Nigeria Social Security Trust Fund Bill now appears firmly on track; offering renewed hope for a stronger, more inclusive social protection system for all working Nigerians.