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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, NSITF, on Monday, July 6,2026, formally opened a week-long study tour for the Board of the Industrial Injuries Compensation Fund of the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation, SSHFC, of The Gambia.

The study tour was declared open by the Managing Director/Chief Executive, Barr. Oluwaseun Faleye, at the Fund’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.

He said the visit is aimed at undertaking a comprehensive study of the operations and best practices of Nigeria’s Employees’ Compensation Scheme, ECS, and at strengthening institutional frameworks between the two organizations.

“This engagement is not merely procedural; it is a solemn occasion of historic significance,” Faleye told the guests, adding that “it provides a noble platform through which both institutions may exchange knowledge, compare experiences, and glean invaluable insights that will enrich our shared mission of delivering social security benefits to our citizens.”

Represented by the Executive Director, Administration, Barr. Samaila Abdu, the MD, said NSITF holds the partnership with SSHFC in the highest regard and expressed delight at receiving the delegation in Nigeria.

He noted that at the end of the exercise, he expects the lessons learned to advance the corporate aspirations of both NSITF and SSHFC, and ultimately benefit citizens of Nigeria and The Gambia.

The week-long engagement is expected to feature technical sessions, facility tours, and discussions on policy, administration, and service delivery under the Employees’ Compensation Scheme.

The NSITF administers the ECS in Nigeria, which provides compensation for work-related injuries, diseases, and death, and promotes occupational safety and health in workplaces across the country.

Earlier in a welcome remark, the Executive Director Finance, Olufemi  Ayodele Samuel, had said the study tour was designed to foster cross-border cooperation and strategic collaboration in critical areas of industrial injuries compensation.

“On behalf of the Board and Management of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), and all relevant stakeholders in our social security and labour sector, I warmly welcome the Board of Directors and Management of the Social Security and Housing Finance Corporation (SSHFC) of The Gambia to NSITF.

“We are here to flag off a highly anticipated capacity-building and study visit. This engagement is designed to foster cross-border cooperation, knowledge exchange, and strategic collaboration in the critical areas of industrial injuries compensation and social security administration,” the ED, Finance and Investment had stated.

He expressed optimism that “This visit will offer a platform to explore practical frameworks for workplace accident prevention, disability benefits, and survivors’ compensation. It is also an opportunity for NSITF and SSHFC to discuss the challenges of managing social protection funds and ensuring robust occupational health and safety standards.

“We hope this study tour will not only provide valuable insights into our operational procedures and claims tracking, but will also serve as a foundation for a lasting, mutually beneficial partnership”.

Also speaking at the flag off, the Executive Director (Operations) at NSITF, Barr Mojisola Alli Macaulay, welcomed the delegation to Nigeria and assured them of a robust study tour of the Fund’s operations, as NSITF is the standard for social security in Africa. She further enjoined them to enjoy the study tour.
Responding, the leader of the Gambian delegation and Chairman of the Board and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade and Employment, Lamine Camara, said the organization was in Nigeria to learn and share experiences and expressed delight for a partnership with NSITF.

According to him, “It’s a way to sustain collaboration with sister organizations. We are here to learn from such engagement. We are motivated, and would be glad to share all the experiences we learn here back home.”

SSHFC is The Gambia’s statutory body responsible for social security and housing finance, including the administration of industrial injuries compensation.

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The Working Peoples United (WoPU), a Nigerian grassroots civic movement comprising labour leaders, professionals, artisans, and working-class citizens, has strongly countered recent criticisms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies and personal attack on Comrade Prince Akporeha Williams and WoPU. The coalition accused opposition figures of deliberately sponsoring him to spread misinformation aimed at undermining the administration’s reform agenda and the Coalition.

WoPU, which operates as a broad platform beyond traditional labour unions, reaffirmed its commitment to good governance and mobilizing support for the Tinubu administration and his reelection In a direct response to the remarks of Kunle Wizeman Ajayi published on Sahara Reporters, the group described his attacks on President Tinubu, Chief of Staff Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and WoPU itself as baseless “campaigns of calumny” , cyberbully driven by political frustration and personal interests.

Speaking in a statement personally signed and released on Monday, the Secretary General of WoPU, Comrade Oladapo Sunday Moses emphasized that while democratic governance welcomes criticism, such engagement must be constructive, fact-based, and aimed at strengthening the system rather than destabilizing it.

He noted that Ajayi’s narratives were “deliberately exaggerated” to mislead the public for pecuniary gains.

“This is an opinion laced with anger and resentment, not grounded in fact. President Tinubu’s administration has engaged labour unions on the minimum wage issue, leading to the approval of a new wage structure. While workers may still feel economic pressure, branding the government as ‘crudely anti-workers’ ignores ongoing dialogue and reforms designed to stabilize the economy,” the statement read.

WoPU further clarified that the removal of fuel subsidies was a necessary policy decision to curb unsustainable spending and redirect resources toward infrastructure and social programs. Although the measure created short-term inconvenience, the government has introduced palliatives, wage adjustments, and investments in transportation and energy to cushion the effects. Assertions that “all sectors” have collapsed were described as exaggerated and misleading

On the minimum wage, WoPU stressed that the new ₦70,000 benchmark, though challenged by inflation, is not among the lowest globally. Many developing nations operate with lower wage floors. The coalition highlighted ongoing government efforts to improve workers’ welfare through housing, healthcare, and transport subsidies.

Addressing Ajayi’s dismissal of WoPU as “dead on arrival,” the group reaffirmed its legitimacy as a coalition of labour stakeholders contributing to national discourse. It argued that new coalitions are a natural feature of democratic labour movements, which thrive on diversity of voices and perspectives. The claim that WoPU exists solely for “chop-money” was described as unsubstantiated and reductionist.

“Mr. Kunle Wizeman Ajayi, who contested as the African Action Congress (AAC) candidate in the 2024 Ondo State Governorship election and suffered a resounding defeat, cannot be regarded as a moral authority on matters of national importance. Electoral failure does not confer credibility, nor does it qualify him to speak responsibly on sensitive issues affecting governance and labour. His inability to distinguish between opinion and fact further discredits his interventions, revealing a lack of depth and seriousness expected of a responsible citizen committed to the progress of his country.

“Rather than engaging constructively, Ajayi appears intent on exploiting WoPU and other distinguished Nigerians merely to gain attention and trend in the public space. His antecedents as a disruptive figure with cantankerous tendencies reinforce the conclusion that his views are not only infantile but also utterly reckless and thoughtless. His commentary reflects more of personal frustration than genuine concern for Nigeria’s development,” Oladapo Moses stated.

WoPU also rejected insinuations that the presence of political leaders at labour events equates to “whitewashing.” The coalition noted that such engagements are necessary in a democracy and reflect government-labour collaboration, and the participants at the very important and successful summit reflected members from from critical economic trade unions and associations.

Highlighting its recent initiatives, WoPU recalled the launch of the Responsible Citizen tag and badge on June 25, 2026, during its Good Governance Summit at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. The event, attended by Chief of Staff Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and other dignitaries, underscored the legitimacy of the programme. The emblem serves as a call to action for Nigerians to embody integrity, patriotism, and civic responsibility, encouraging citizens to complement leadership efforts with responsible followership.

Ajayi’s narratives, WoPU concluded, were “distasteful, unpatriotic, and insensitive,” relying heavily on emotional language and sweeping generalizations. While concerns about workers’ welfare are valid, misrepresenting government efforts and delegitimizing new labour coalitions undermines constructive dialogue.

“As a reminder for all misguided elements, including Kunle Wizeman Ajayi, Comrade (Prince) Williams Eniredonana Akporeha who is currently our National Coordinator and Convener concluded his tenure as President of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) after eight years of transformative leadership, leaving behind a legacy defined by institutional reforms, worker empowerment, and strengthened union structures. His stewardship repositioned NUPENG as one of the most influential trade unions in Sub-Saharan Africa, earning him respect across the labor movement.

“Akporeha’s unionist journey began at the grassroots level as a Branch Secretary, before steadily advancing to Branch Chairman, Warri Zonal Treasurer, Warri Zonal Chairman, and Vice President (Warri Zone). Each step reflected his doggedness, resilience, and unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare, eventually propelling him to the position of National Treasurer of NUPENG and later, in April 2018, to the presidency of the union.

“Beyond NUPENG, he also served as Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Delta State, and later as National Trustee of the NLC in 2023 which he is stil serving, further cementing his influence within Nigeria’s broader labor movement.

“This iconic figure equally oversaw the construction of NUPENG Towers, a landmark project symbolizing the union’s stability and progress. Records also showed that he expanded health insurance coverage for members and consistently defended union membership rights.

“He championed robust negotiations for fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable industry policies, ensuring NUPENG remained a strong voice for workers. He attended international trainings and conferences in South Africa, Brazil, USA, UK, Switzerland, Russia, and South Korea, enhancing his expertise in conflict resolution, collective bargaining, and union management. Akporeha’s leadership style was widely regarded as visionary and quintessential, combining humility with integrity.

“His activism was impactful, his struggles dynamic, and his service honorable; earning him admiration across Nigeria’s labor movement. On April 30, 2026, he formally handed over leadership to another very capable leader of the union Comrade (Dr.) Salimon Akanni Oladiti (JP), ensuring continuity and a seamless transition. This symbolic handover signified not merely a change of office but the passing of a legacy built on resilience and service. By every standard, Kunle Wizeman Ajayi cannot be compared with Comrade Akporeha, as there are no records indicating he ever succeeded even as a secondary school class captain, let alone as a student leader with enduring accomplishments worthy of historical reference. This character is entirely an opposite of what his name suggested. He is not wise and lacking in wisdom.” Comrade Moses remarked.

Nigeria, WoPU noted, is a complex and culturally pluralistic nation with over 250 ethnic groups and 500 languages. Governed under a federal system designed to unify diversity, the country faces unique challenges and opportunities in governance, integration, and conflict management. With a government now actively working to address long-standing issues, dismissive commentary such as Ajayi’s reflects a callous and unpatriotic perspective.

Despite criticism, WoPU reiterated its commendation of the Federal Government’s initiatives in youth empowerment and education, including student loan schemes, targeted support for NYSC members, and tailored programmes for young entrepreneurs and vulnerable groups. These measures, the coalition said, demonstrate a deliberate strategy to invest in the nation’s future by equipping young Nigerians with the tools and opportunities needed to thrive in a competitive global economy.

“The achievements recorded so far reflect a genuine dedication to national development. We call on Nigerians to remain united and support policies that secure a brighter and more prosperous future for our country,” said Secretary General of WoPU, Comrade Moses.

Reaffirming its unwavering support for President Tinubu’s leadership, WoPU endorsed the Renewed Hope Agenda as a transformative vision for Nigeria’s growth trajectory. The coalition underscored that with consistent implementation, the administration’s reforms will strengthen institutions, expand economic opportunities, and enhance the welfare of citizens, particularly the working people across all sectors.

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President Bola Tinubu on Monday defended his administration’s decision to remove the Federal Capital Territory Administration from the Treasury Single Account, saying the policy has provided the financial flexibility needed to accelerate infrastructure development across Abuja.

The President also dismissed claims that the executive was interfering in the affairs of the judiciary through the provision of infrastructure, insisting that supporting the justice sector is a constitutional responsibility of government.

Tinubu spoke while inaugurating the new Office Annex of the Body of Benchers and 10 units of four-bedroom staff quarters at the Nigerian Law School in Bwari, Abuja.

He was represented at both events by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr George Akume.

Speaking on the decision to exempt the FCTA from the TSA, Tinubu said the move had enabled the administration to execute projects more efficiently by eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks.

He said, “When we pulled the FCT Administration out of the Treasury Single Account, there were sceptics. There were those who questioned the wisdom of that financial liberation.

“But we did it because we knew that local administration must have the liquidity, the speed and the corporate flexibility to interface with financial institutions and deliver critical projects without bureaucratic strangulation. Today, the results are glaring.”

Tinubu said the visible transformation in the Federal Capital Territory had justified the policy, crediting the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for delivering on the administration’s development agenda.

“When I appointed Minister Wike, I gave him a clear mandate to transform Abuja into a modern, functional and world-class capital city.

“Over the last three years, the scale of infrastructural development, urban renewal and project delivery in the FCT has been unmatched,” he said.

The President also commended Wike for resolving the long-standing land documentation challenge facing the Nigerian Law School by facilitating the issuance of its Certificate of Occupancy after years without a formal title.

At the inauguration of the Body of Benchers’ Office Annex, Tinubu described the project as a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law, democratic governance and institutional independence.

Responding to criticisms that the executive was encroaching on the independence of the judiciary by constructing facilities for the legal community, the President rejected the claim.

“Let me be absolutely clear: the provision of infrastructure for the legal community and the judiciary is not an interference in the independence of another arm of government.

“Rather, it is a constitutional and collaborative duty of the executive to ensure that those who interpret and uphold our laws are provided with an environment that fosters operational efficiency and excellence,”he said.

At the Nigerian Law School, Tinubu said quality infrastructure remained essential to producing competent legal professionals, stressing that the government was committed to improving learning and living conditions within the institution.

“We cannot build a world-class legal system with dilapidated infrastructure,” he said.

The President described the newly inaugurated staff quarters as the first phase of broader investments at the Law School, disclosing that the Federal Government was funding the construction of a new auditorium, additional student hostels and the digitisation of the institution’s academic and administrative operations.

He added that similar interventions were ongoing across the justice sector, including the construction of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, magistrates’ courts and residential quarters for judges.

According to him, the projects reflected the administration’s determination to strengthen institutions that sustain democracy rather than merely constructing physical infrastructure.

“We promised not just to govern, but to reform. We promised to rebuild the broken structures of our institutional foundations,” Tinubu said.

He maintained that the projects demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to translating its promises into measurable results through sustained investment in critical national institutions.