NRC REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO STAFF WELFARE, WORKPLACE SAFETY ON WORLD SAFETY DAY
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By Aishat Momoh. O.
The Nigerian Railway Corporation has reaffirmed its commitment to staff welfare and workplace safety as it joined the global community to mark the World Day for Safety and Health at Work.
In a statement signed by its Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the Managing Director of the corporation, Kayode Opeifa, described this year’s theme, “Good psychosocial working environments: A pathway to thriving workers and strong organisations,” as timely and relevant to railway operations.
Addressing employees nationwide, including train drivers and administrative personnel, Opeifa highlighted the demanding nature of the sector and the critical role workers play in ensuring passenger safety across the rail network.
According to the statement, personnel operating on standard gauge routes such as Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kaduna, and Warri-Itakpe, as well as narrow gauge lines including Port Harcourt-Aba, Lagos-Kano, Lagos-Ogun, and Jos-Kuru, remain central to maintaining operational safety.
“Nigerians trust us to move them safely, and that trust begins with how safe and supported we feel at work,” the statement read.
Opeifa acknowledged the physical and mental strain associated with railway duties, including long hours, night shifts, and strict schedules, warning that stress and fatigue could increase safety risks.
“A tired driver, a distracted technician, or a demoralised station officer is a risk to the entire rail system,” he said.
He noted that feedback from internal safety forums revealed concerns about heavy workloads, irregular shifts, inadequate welfare facilities at remote stations, and weak interdepartmental communication.
In response, the NRC said psychosocial safety would now form a key component of its broader safety strategy.
As part of its 2026 action plan, the corporation pledged to improve working conditions, expand access to welfare and medical services, and strengthen mental health support for staff.
“Silence is not safety,” Opeifa stressed, urging employees facing emotional challenges to seek help through appropriate channels.
He also called on workers to take personal responsibility for maintaining a safe environment by respecting rest periods, supporting colleagues, and promptly reporting risks.
“Safety on the railway isn’t just about tracks, signals, and protective equipment; it’s about people,” the statement added.
The corporation noted that prioritising the well-being of its workforce would enhance service delivery and sustain public confidence in rail transportation.
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