The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has underscored its commitment to prioritizing the safety, health, and overall well-being of its workforce as a fundamental driver for enhanced productivity and optimal service delivery.
This commitment was highlighted by the Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oloruntola, during the opening of a two-day workshop in Abuja themed “Promoting Safety and Well-being in the Workplace.” Oloruntola emphasized the timeliness of this inaugural initiative, stating its pivotal role in cultivating a work environment focused on the workforce’s welfare, ultimately leading to greater output.
Oloruntola further affirmed the Ministry’s dedication to actively mitigating health risks and fostering a culture of preventative care within the workplace. He stressed the continuous nature of ensuring workplace safety, advocating for a sustained and consciously developed culture characterized by vigilance, empathy, and effective management practices. He warned against the significant and far-reaching consequences of neglecting workplace safety, citing the global prevalence of preventable work-related illnesses and accidents, which result in human suffering, reduced productivity, and institutional setbacks.
Representing the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), Deputy Director of Recreation, Idris Aminu, reiterated the government’s high priority on the health and safety of civil servants. He announced the establishment of a dedicated department within the OHCSF to ensure a safe and conducive working environment. Aminu also encouraged civil servants to engage in the Federal Public Civil Service Games and utilize the Wellness Center at the OHCSF to support their health and focus.
Earlier, the Director of Human Resource Management at the Ministry, Akon Esifa, highlighted the inherent physical and health-related risks present in daily activities, urging all staff members to place a strong emphasis on their personal well-being.
The workshop featured informative presentations from experts covering crucial topics such as nutritional basics, healthy eating habits, leadership and mental health for work-life balance, health tips, and risk reduction and emergency response planning delivered by the FCT Fire Service.
The second day of the workshop provided valuable complimentary healthcare services to the Ministry’s staff. These services included blood pressure checks, eye examinations, sugar tests, and therapeutic massages offered by Nuga Therapeutic Centre, further demonstrating the Ministry’s commitment to the practical well-being of its employees.
Signed
Anastasia Ogbonna
Director, Information and PR
