The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening workplace safety standards across the state, as it joined the global community to commemorate this year’s World Safety Day.
Observed annually on April 28, the day highlights the importance of promoting safe and healthy working environments.
The Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola commended workers, employers, and safety advocates for their consistent adherence to safety protocols.
Mojola noted that this has ensured smooth and incident-free operations in various workplaces, stressing the need for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to further enhance safety culture and prevent workplace hazards across the state.
Mojola in a statement issued on Monday described the day as a critical reminder of the need to prioritise occupational safety, noting that work-related accidents and illnesses remain significant global challenges despite growing awareness.
According to him, “the observance championed by the United Nations and the International Labour Organisation provides an opportunity for stakeholders to strengthen preventive measures, share best practices, and renew commitments to safeguarding workers.”
Highlighting this year’s theme, “Good Psychosocial Working Environments: A Pathway to Thriving Workers and Strong Organisations,” Mojola stressed that workplace safety must extend beyond physical protection to include mental well-being, effective workload management, role clarity, and a positive organisational culture.
He explained that “the 2026 theme focuses on reducing psychosocial hazards arising from the organisation of work, such as excessive workload, poor communication, lack of support, and inadequate reward systems.”
Flexible work
The Director-General further urged organisations to view employees as partners and individuals, not merely as resources, emphasising the need for flexible work arrangements and respect for work-life boundaries, including avoiding demands outside official working hours.
Mojola said; “There is a need for the implementation of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling services and stress management initiatives, empathy, understanding, and flexible work schedules are essential in preventing burnout. And Lagos State remains committed to fostering a robust safety culture by encouraging organisations to adopt modern tools and proactive strategies aimed at reducing workplace incidents.”
Continuous learning
He said that the annual commemoration underscores the importance of continuous learning, strategic planning, and sustained commitment to safety practices as key drivers of improved workplace conditions.
Mojola urged employers, employees and other stakeholders to leverage on this global calendar to reassess their safety protocols and invest in systems that protect lives while enhancing productivity.
He emphasised that safe and healthy work environments is a shared responsibility that requires collective action and innovation.