In a renewed effort to strengthen the welfare and social security framework for its workforce, the Federal Fire Service has announced plans to fully enroll all its personnel under the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) Employee Compensation Scheme.
This initiative, according to the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Jaji O. Abdulganiyu, reflects the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its officers, especially those who risk their lives daily in the line of duty. The move is aimed at providing a structured compensation mechanism for work-related injuries, disabilities, or death while in active service.
Speaking during a strategic engagement with NSITF officials in Abuja, Abdulganiyu emphasized that the realities of firefighting and emergency response expose officers to various occupational hazards. He noted that the partnership with NSITF is a step in the right direction to institutionalize a safety net for all fire personnel across the federation.
Under the scheme, enrolled officers will be entitled to a range of benefits including medical care, rehabilitation, and compensation for injuries or loss of life sustained during service. The Controller-General noted that this development would not only boost morale within the service but also assure officers that their sacrifices are recognized and valued by the Federal Government.
Representatives of the NSITF lauded the decision, describing it as timely and progressive. They reiterated the Fund’s readiness to work with the Fire Service in ensuring a seamless enrollment process and effective implementation of the scheme.
The Federal Fire Service’s adoption of the NSITF Employee Compensation Scheme aligns with broader national efforts to promote decent working conditions and social protection for all public sector workers, especially those in high-risk professions. This development is expected to set a precedent for other security and emergency response agencies to follow suit in enhancing the safety nets for their staff.
