As the global community marked the 2026 International Labour Organization’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work, the World Safety Organization (WSO) Nigeria has called for a fundamental shift in how workplace safety is defined, urging employers to give equal priority to mental wellbeing alongside physical protection.
In a goodwill message to safety professionals and industry stakeholders, the Country Director of WSO Nigeria and Executive Director of SafERR Global Networks, Amb. Dr. Soji Olalokun, said that the year’s theme, “Let’s Ensure a Healthy Psychosocial Working Environment,” reflects an emerging global consensus that workplace safety must go beyond visible hazards.
While reaffirming the importance of protective gear and conventional safety protocols, Olalokun stressed that such measures are no longer sufficient to address the full range of risks workers face.
He drew attention to the growing impact of psychosocial challenges, including stress, workplace bullying, role ambiguity, and weak organisational support systems; warning that these require urgent, structured interventions.
“Every worker deserves to return home safe, not only physically, but mentally,” he said, urging organisations to accord psychological safety the same level of seriousness as physical hazards.
Highlighting WSO Nigeria’s footprint, Olalokun disclosed that since 2013, the organisation, in partnership with SafERR Global Networks, has delivered accredited safety training and advocacy to more than 3.5 million people across key sectors like oil and gas, construction, manufacturing, and the public sector.
He added that sustained collaboration with regulators and industry stakeholders has facilitated the integration of psychosocial risk assessments into Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) systems across the country. Through its ambassadorial and volunteer programmes, WSO Nigeria has also built a strong grassroots network of safety advocates promoting awareness and behavioural change.
According to him, the organisation has played a leading role in advancing conversations around mental health, workplace stress, and bullying issues gaining increasing recognition in both policy and practice locally and globally.
Olalokun attributed the progress recorded to the collective efforts of partners, members, volunteers, and government institutions, emphasising that workplace safety remains a shared responsibility.
He challenged organisations to critically evaluate their work environments, questioning whether employees truly enjoy clarity, respect, and the support required to thrive.
Reaffirming its commitment, WSO Nigeria pledged continued investment in training, advocacy, and practical tools to help organisations identify and manage psychosocial risks effectively.
Looking ahead, he announced that Lagos will host the 2026 International Safety Conference and World Safety Awards from September 10 to 11, bringing together global experts, regulators, and industry leaders to deepen efforts toward safer workplaces.
He maintained that truly safe workplaces must protect both the body and the mind