Youths, Nigeria's Greatest Asset – Faleye

*** Says Social Protectionnis Bedrock of National Development 

Dr. Dayo Alao, GM)TA MD Office NSITF represented the MD 

Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye, has described Nigerian youths as the country’s greatest asset, rather than mineral resources, infrastructure and money. 

Barrister Faleye made this submission in his speech as a guest speaker at the Student Mentorship Summit, 2006 organized by the National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS) in Abuja, Thursday.

In his words, "In Nigeria, our greatest asset is neither oil, nor infrastructure, nor even capital, it is our people. More specifically, it is our youth - energetic, innovative, and fullof potential."

The MD added that to nurture that asset, the youth need guidance and support to achieve that potential. According to him, "potential alone is not enough; we need to guide, support, and protect it.”

“This event is part of our shared journey to shape Nigeria's future where our young people are not just equipped with skills, but also empowered to lead across sectors, drive innovation, and create sustainable progress," he stressed.

The NSITF boss, who was represented at the occasion by his Technical Assistant, Dr Dayo Alao, argued that empowering youth with the right tools, skills, and vision has become non-negotiable for national progress, adding that young people must be empowered to lead across all sectors.

He went on to suggest a to-do list, saying "We need to change the orientation of our youth, we need to shift from a mindset of entitlement to one of responsibility, from dependency to self-reliance, from consumption to production. 

“We need to inspire them to be job creators, not just job seekers, and encourage them to be innovators solving real-world problems, not just chasing certificates. We need to empower them to be leaders, driving change in their communities, not just waiting for opportunities to come to them."

Striking a nexus between social protection and the youth and national development he said, "As the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, I'm proud of the role we continue to play - not just as a provider of social security, but as a strategic enabler of workforce resilience and national development.

“We're talking about creating a safety net that's not just reactive, but proactive supporting entrepreneurs, protecting workers, and promoting a culture of safety and productivity. 

“Investing in youth development is inseparable from investing in social protection. A protected workforce is a productive workforce, and that's what drives national prosperity."

"This is where the idea of sky bound leadership becomes not just relevant, but essential. It challenges us to rise above limitations, to think beyond silos, beyond sectors, and beyond the present. It calls for a generation of leaders who see connections where others see divisions, anticipate the future rather than react to it, and build resilient, inclusive, and sustainable systems. We must raise a generation of systems thinkers. Young leaders who understand how decisions in one sector affect outcomes in another," he submitted.

"Social security is not merely a safety net; it is a foundation for national development. Our mandate at the NSITF goes beyond compensation. It extends to ensuring workplace safety, promoting decent work standards, and protecting the dignity and productivity of the Nigerian worker," Faleye added, as he reiterated the Fund's commitment to expanding coverage of it's social protection and ensuring safe workplace.

He made a case for making social security a powerful driver of youth empowerment and national development, and the anchor of stability as he urged a proactive multi-sector approach to youth development and mentorship.

"The future we desire for Nigeria will not happen by chance. It must be designed, built, and sustained.," he concluded.

Earlier in his welcome address, the National Publicity Secretary of NANS, and convener of the event, Comrade Samson Ajasa, had said the vision of the Students Mentorship Summit was framed in the need to bridge the gap between Nigerian youths and opportunities that abound locally and internationally.

Providing more insight on the background of the Summit, Ajasa revealed that the success of the maiden edition held at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye last October led to the follow-up edition.

According to him, the Students Mentorship Summit 2026, themed “Skybound Leadership: A Multi-Sector approach to Youth Development in Tech, Aviation, Oil & Gas, Security, and Anti-Drug/Cybercrime Advocacy,” represents a bold step forward. 

“The theme itself speaks to ambition skybound. It reminds us that the aspirations of Nigerian youths must not be limited by circumstances but propelled by knowledge, mentorship, and innovation," he summed.

The Nigerian student union body presented the Managing Director of NSITF, Barrister Faleye, with the Social Protection Champion Award in recognition of his outstanding performance as the Fund's helmsman.

The event, held at the Merit House, Maitama had in attendance heads of MDAs, captains of industry, leaders of thought.

Dr Ulayi Inducted as Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations

Dr Emmanuel Ulayi

Dr Emmanuel Slaying has been inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, (NIPR).

Ulayi was inducted as a member of the prestigious institute alongside 481 other prominent Nigerians at the Bolingo Hotels, Abuja on Thursday.

The inductee, a journalist with over 25 years experience worked with many notable platforms including Vanguard newspapers and served as Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the former governor of Cross River State, Professor Ben Ayade between 2015-2023.

Ulayi, a political scientist, capped his academic pursuit with a PhD in Political Economy and Development from the University of Calabar having studied for his Bachelors in Political Science and Masters in Political Economy at Ado-Ekiti and Abuja respectively.

He currently works in the Corporate Affairs Department of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, (NSITF) where he is deploying his vast experience and wide contact in the media industry for effective communication of the Fund's policies, programmes and achievements.

Dr Ulayi with another inductee

Speaking after his induction, Dr Ulayi thanked the Board of NIPR for "recognizing my humble contributions to national development through effective communication."

He noted that the challenges facing the publicist have become more complex with the advent of the New Media. He promised to be more committed than ever in his duty as a publicist 

Ulayi has authored many books and articles. A widely travelled man, Dr Ulayi is married with children.

.Other inductees included Mr Ikenna Egwuatu, Mr Leke Bayewu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, former President of National Association of Women in Journalist s, (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo, and Chairperson of FCT chapter of NUJ, Grace Ike.

The occasion was witnessed by members of the Institute, media moguls and other stakeholders.

International Women Day: NSITF Boss Bags TUC Award of Excellence.

The Trade Union Congress Nigeria Women Commission has presented the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his visionary leadership and contributions to women development and commitment to gender equity.

Presenting the Award of Excellence at International Women Day Celebration and Award Night, the Chairperson, TUC Nigeria Women Commission, Comrade Esther Asabe Ahmadu, said Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye deserved the award because of his "visionary leadership, integrity and outstanding service, which have inspired progress and lasting impact."

She stated further that the award was in appreciation of Faleye's "unwavering support, and strong commitment to advancing gender equality, promoting decent work, and protecting the rights and dignity of women in the world of work."

Comrade Ahmadu added that the recipient "has  demonstrated a deep understanding of inclusive and equitable workplace through his visionary leadership and consistent support for initiatives that empower women,  promote fairness, and strengthen social protection for workers.”

While receiving the award, Faleye  expressed gratitude to the TUC Women Commission for recognizing his humble efforts. He dedicated the award to the "hard-working staff of the renewed NSITF" without whom he said, nothing could have been achieved.

Faleye reiterated his commitment to advancing gender inclusiveness and equality, and promotion of safe and healthy workplace for all workers.

The award night which held in Abuja Wednesday, capped a series of activities by the Commission in commemoration of 2026 International Women Day.

Empowering Women, An Economic And Social Necessity --Faleye

Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye 

"Empowering women is not simply a moral obligation--it is an economic and social necessity." These were the words of the Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, (NSITF) Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye at this year's celebration of International Women Day, (IWD) organized by the Trade Union Congress Women Commission in Abuja, Wednesday.

Barrister Faleye, the special guest of honour at the event described the theme of the 2026 commemoration, "Empowering Women: The Path to Equal Rights and Social Justice," as "both timely and significant." 

"When women are empowered with equal opportunities, fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to social protection, societies become more stronger and economies grow more resilient." He submitted.

The NSITF boss commended the Women Commission for consistency in championing the "cause of women within the labour movement and doe creating a platform that amplifies the voices, concerns, and aspirations of women across our workplaces and communities.'

Barrister Faleye, while acknowledging the contributions of Nigerian women to national development, however, lamented that many women still faced barriers limiting their access to opportunities. He affirmed the Fund's commitment to promoting a safe workplace for women and all workers.

The MD urged a reaffirmation of commitment by stakeholders to "building a future where every woman has opportunity to work in a safe environment, earn a fair income, and participate fully in decision-making processes that shaped our economy and society."

In his address at the occasion, the President-General of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Festus Osifo, agreed with Barrister Faleye as he noted that, "Women remain pivotal contributors to our workplaces, our communities, and our nation's progress.'

He likewise rued the inequalities facing women even as he revealed that the TUC had taken bold steps to end inequalities and institutionalize gender inclusion.

In the same vein, Dr. Vanessa Phala Moyo,  Country Director for International Labour Organization, (ILO) in Nigeria stateed that "International Women Day offers the world an annual opportunity to recognise women's achievements, confront persistent inequalities, and reaffirm our collective commitment to social justice."

She called attention to "structural barriers that continued to hinder women's full enjoyment of rights in the world of work", which she said, should be a call to action for all.

Comrade Esther Saabe Ahmadu, Chairperson, TUC Nigeria Women Commission summed up in her remarks, "As we reflect on the struggles and triumph of women across the globe, it is clear that while we have come a long way, there is still much work to be done to ensure that women are not only seen and heard but also empowered in every sphere of life."

The occasion had in attendance labour leaders, women leaders, representatives of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and other stakeholders.

ASDLI Honours Alhaji (Dr.) Musa Adamu Majia

A Civil Society group, Advocacy for Growth and Development in Sustaining Leadership Initiative (ASDLI)  has presented Alhaji (Dr) Musa Adamu Majia, the founder of Khadija University with the Special Merit Award.

From left, Mr. Abdulrasheed Shuaib, Convener, ASDLI, the recipient, Alhaji Dr Musa Adamu Majia, and Alhaji Ali Abacja

The presentation which took place in Abuja which n Thursday was in recognition of

Alhaji (Dr.) Musa Adamu Majia's "extraordinary contributions to grassroots education and national development" according to a media notice by the group.

Alhaji (Dr) Musa Adamu Majia, the recipient.

In his speech at the occasion, the convener of ASDLI, Mr. Abdulrasheed Shuaib described the recipient as "a man who achieved greatness through the lives he has changed." 

He praised the recipient for his humility which made him to achieve things silently without blowing his trumpet.

Mr. Shuaib said Dr. Musa Adamu Majia is a "Doctor of Destiny," who "graduated from the most difficult school on earth--the University of Experience where he learnt that integrity is the best currency and hard work is the only shortcut."

The convener posited that honouring Dr. Majia is not just celebration of success but of vision.

On the rationale for the award, Mr Shuaib said it was important because the recipient, having not the privilege of formal education, had not only achieved remarkable success that gained attention of the academic world leading to an honorary Doctorate from a world class university, but had not kept "his success in his pocket."

He continued that Dr. Majia planted his billions back in the soils of Jigawa by building a university thereby building a ladder to success for the future generations.

"By founding Khadija University, Majia, he didn't just build a school; he built a ladder. He ensured that the next generation would never have to say 'I couldn't ' because he whispered to them, through these classrooms, 'You can.'" Mr. Shuaib added.

Responding, the recipient, Alhaji (Dr) Musa Adamu Majia thanked the organization for recognizing his his humble effort to raise the quality of life of his people. He reiterated his commitment to continue to execute more developmental projects.

In a testimony to the philanthropy gestures of the recipient, Alhaji Lawn Isa, an indigene of Majia revealed that Alhaji Majia , aside building the University from scratch, had been sponsoring the education of many through his scholarship scheme. He listed other projects such as boreholes and electrification to the credit of the recipient.

The occasion was witnessed by leaders of the civil society and friends, and associates of the recipient.

Faleye Partners Gov. Kefas on Employees' Compensation Scheme Compliance, Seeks Urgent Action

Governor Kefas of Taraba State (left), receiving an award from Barrister Oluwaseun Faleye, MD/CE NSITF 

The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF),  Barrister Oluwaseun  Faleye, has called for deeper institutional collaboration between the Fund and the Taraba State Government to strengthen the implementation of the Employees’ Compensation Scheme (ECS).

Barr. Faleye (right), with Barr. Samaila Abdu, ED Admin NSITF, decorating Governor Kefas Agbu 

Faleye, who led a delegation of the Fund on a courtesy visit to Governor of Taraba State at the Governor's office in Jalingo on Thursday, said the engagement was far from ceremonial, describing it as part of a deliberate strategy to build structured partnerships with "progressive state governments committed to workers' welfare and institutional sustainability."

The MD/CE emphasized that the Employees’ Compensation Scheme is not merely a statutory obligation but a critical social protection instrument that guarantees dignity for workers and stability for employers.  

"When a worker is injured, disabled or loses his life in the course of duty, the response of government defines public trust and reinforces confidence in leadership,” Falaye said, noting that expanding ECS coverage aligns directly with the governor’s welfare-driven agenda as he commended Governor Kefas on his commitment to workers' welfare.

(l-r), Barr. Faleye, Barr. Abdu, and GM/TA MD Office, Dr. Dayo Alao.

The NSITF boss stressed the need to move beyond dialogue to measurable outcomes and proposed practical steps that would expand ECS compliance across state MDAs, intensify sensitization of major employers, and contractors operating in Taraba, and strengthen workplace safety and compensation awareness across the state.

To ensure structure and accountability, Faleye suggested a focal ministry or designated official to coordinate engagement with the NSITF.

“If it pleases Your Excellency, we can immediately set up a joint technical interface between your designated team and ours to develop a short implementation roadmap within the next few weeks,” he said, adding that the Fund has already established an internal Strategic Inter-Agency Coordination (SIAC) framework to track timelines and deliverables arising from such engagements.

Faleye highlighted the mutual benefits of strengthened ECS coverage, noting that it would protect workers, reduce employers’ litigation exposure, promote industrial harmony and reinforce the administration’s commitment to structured social protection.

In a move aimed at institutionalizing compliance, the NSITF Managing Director recommended the integration of the ECS Compliance Certificate into the state’s public procurement and contracting processes. 

He explained that requiring evidence of NSITF compliance as part of documentation for contract bidding, pre-qualification for state projects, contractor registration and renewal, and public-private partnership engagements would not create new obligations but rather reinforce existing statutory requirements.

The approach, he added, would ensure that companies benefiting from public funds are also compliant in protecting their workers.

Faleye concluded by seeking clarity on the state’s preferred coordination structure, asking the governor to advise on which ministry or official the Fund should immediately work with to operationalize the collaboration.

Barrister Faleye then confirmed the Governor as the Ambassador for the Advocacy of ECS in Taraba State in particular, and the Northeast in general.

Responding, Governor Kefas assured that the state would key in into the ECS for betterment of the workers.

"Taraba state government is ready to partner with NSITF to ensure you fulfill your mandate by ensuring all workers are enrolled in the scheme. We would be working through our office of the Head of Service, Ministry of Finance and Ministry for Local Government,” he stated.

The governor, while welcoming the NSITF delegation, expressed his appreciation for the   "kind words on all the positive things you have noticed we are doing to improve the lives of our people."  

He revealed that "only recently we paid 5 billion Naira to pensioners in the state” and expressed optimism that "by the end of the year the state won't be owning any pensioners their entitlement."

"We would fulfill all obligations as regards the scheme in furtherance of our commitment to workers welfare.,” Governor Kefas promised.

On the confirmation of Ambassador for Advocacy of ECS in the state and the whole of Northeast region, the governor said "l want to assure you l am interested in this your mandate. l am interested to accept any assignment that would enhance this mandate in the interest of the country and workers in general."

Governor Kefas immediately set up a high powered committee to interface with NSITF to ensure Taraba state is ECS-compliant.

Bwari Area Council Elections Free, Fair, and Credible --INEC Accredited Observers.

A coalition of of observers in the Bwari Area Council Elections,: INEC Accredited Observers,  has validated the Councillorship  and Chairmanship Elections of February 21st, 2026 in the Area Council, describing it as free, fair and credible. 

Rev. Harvest Ighebo (Ph.D) flanked by Mr. Rasheed Shuaib and Mrs. Nandi Bernard at the press conference.

The coalition expressed this view at a press conference addressed by the leader of the group, Reverend Harvest Ighebo in Abuja on Tuesday. 

However, the coalition of observers rued the low turnout of voters, attributing it to the voters  lack of confidence in the political leadership. 

A section of leaders of INEC Accredited Election Observers' groups at the press conference 

"The entire exercise recorded poor voters Turnout. This apathy is largely due to the lack of voters trust in the political class." The coalition observed, as they urged the political actors to build up trust by proper representation through people-oriented governance. 

However, the coalition commended the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike for ensuring the proper environment for the exercise. 

Rev. Ighebo (centre), flanked by Alhaji Ali Abacha, (left) and Rev. Dr. Justin 

Furthermore, they commended security agencies for providing adequate security and traditional rulers for sensitising voters. 

Additionally, the coalition of observers praised the voters for orderly conduct during the voting exercise as they asserted that there were no incidence of violence or disorderly conduct in most polling units members of the coalition visited. 

The group described the exercise as " relatively peaceful in all its ramifications" 

The coalition said further thst "The integrated security of both the police, civil defence, and other sister agencies was another beauty to the exercise." 

On INEC's preparedness and deployment of materials, the group commended INEC for smart and timely distribution of materials which they said allowed the exercise to keep to schedule. 

"Accreditation and voting began at the scheduled time of 8:30 am and by 2:30 pm in most of the polling units, counting of votes were done without hitches." 

They further commended polling officials and their supervisors for displaying professionalism in their conduct which, they said reflected proper and adequate trainings by the electoral umpire. 

Summing up, the coalition said, "The Election observers who independently sponsored their workforce for this enormous and patriotic exercise without any financial support from the government and INEC Authorities. We deployed ourselves to all the Various Polling Units across the (10) Ten wards of the Area Council. From our observation, the Election was free, fair, peaceful and relatively credible, going by our unanimous assessment and evaluation."

The press conference was well attended by leaders of INEC Accredited Observers' groups, members of the press, and other stakeholders.