Over 150 construction workers killed in 2024 – FG
The federal government has revealed that more than 150 construction workers died in 2024 from site-related accidents, including building collapses and machinery mishaps. It also stated that Nigeria records an average of 50 to 70 major construction accidents annually, many of which are linked to structural failures and incidents involving heavy-duty equipment. In recent years, […]
The federal government has revealed that more than 150 construction workers died in 2024 from site-related accidents, including building collapses and machinery mishaps.
It also stated that Nigeria records an average of 50 to 70 major construction accidents annually, many of which are linked to structural failures and incidents involving heavy-duty equipment.
In recent years, several workers have been trapped beneath rubble from collapsed buildings in Lagos, Kano, Port Harcourt, and other cities.
Speaking at the 69th Annual General Meeting of the Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI) in Abuja, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Oluwaseun Faleye, expressed grave concern over the alarming fatalities.
Citing figures from the Nigerian Safety Commission, Faleye said the deaths underscored the urgent need for prevention, stronger safety protocols, and compliance across the industry. “Strengthening safety involves rigorous audits, adherence to standards, and continuous training to protect workers at all times,” he said.
Faleye urged construction firms to collaborate with NSITF’s Health, Safety, and Environment team on training, audits and interventions.
He said creating a proactive safety culture was key to avoiding future tragedies.
“Embedding safety and welfare in every project is critical for sustainable growth in the construction industry,” he added.
The NSITF, he assured, remains committed to supporting safety initiatives through audits, certifications, and enforcement.
According to Faleye, the resilience of Nigeria’s construction industry depends on maintaining a healthy, protected workforce, warning that neglect of worker welfare could undermine both productivity and public confidence in the sector.