Trauma: FG Reaffirms Commitment to Workplace Injury Prevention, Safer Nigeria

The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare, has renewed its commitment to ensuring a healthier and safer Nigeria by reducing workplace injuries and trauma incidents.

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This was declared during the commemoration of World Trauma Day, themed “Workplace Injury: Prevention and Management,” at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria.

The Coordinating Minister of Health & Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by Dr. Anuma Ogbonnaya, Director of Teaching Hospitals, emphasized the need to protect the workforce’s health and well-being.

He stated that trauma prevention and management remain a priority, given the profound mental and physical effects of trauma.

The event highlighted that workplace injuries not only affect individual employees and their families but also have broader economic and societal implications.

In a statement by Head, Information and PR, Alaba Balogun, Prof. Pate underscored the importance of this year’s theme, stressing the need for proactive initiatives in trauma prevention and care in Nigeria.

Citing global statistics, the Honourable Minister mentioned that trauma is a leading cause of death worldwide.

“According to the World Health Organization, injuries and violence account for over 4.4 million deaths annually, which is approximately 8% of all global deaths”. He said.

Prof. Pate announced the Federal Ministry’s commitment to establishing a dedicated clinic within the Ministry that will offer emergency medical services, including care for workplace injuries.

“This step is aimed at improving access to trauma care services for workers”.

Beyond the Ministry, Prof. Pate pointed out that the Federal Government has also taken national-level actions to enhance emergency medical services.

He highlighted the inauguration of the National Emergency Medical Treatment Committee (NEMTC) and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the Rural Emergency Service and Maternal Transport (RESMAT) scheme.

“As part of broader reforms, the Ministry is also developing a National Trauma Care Policy, which will provide a strategic framework for trauma management. This policy will address the entire continuum of care, from pre-hospital emergency response to rehabilitation and reintegration into the workforce”. He added.

On prevention, Prof. Pate stressed that the Ministry is dedicated to promoting workplace safety across all sectors. He advocated for the enforcement of safety protocols, employee training, and regular assessments to minimize hazards and risks in the workplace.

“Prevention is the most effective strategy for reducing workplace injuries, and by investing in preventive measures, we can significantly reduce the burden of trauma”. The Coordinating Minister added.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom mni, represented by Dr. Azeez Aderemi, Director of Specialty Hospitals, reinforced the call for renewed efforts to reduce workplace injuries. He urged stakeholders to adopt proactive prevention strategies and robust management practices.

In his remarks, Dr. Aderemi highlighted that World Trauma Day serves as a reminder to strengthen efforts toward workplace safety and injury prevention.

He emphasized the need for collaboration between government agencies and organizations to achieve a safer working environment for all Nigerians.

Representatives from several government agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), International Committee of the Red Cross, National Orthopedic Association of Nigeria, and the Directorate of Road Transport Services (VIO), were also present at the event.

They delivered goodwill messages emphasizing their commitment to improving trauma care.

The Federal Ministry’s initiatives and policies aim to protect the nation’s workforce while addressing trauma’s social and economic impacts.