By Joan Nwagwu
The Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Mr Oluwaseun Faleye, has called for a comprehensive reform of social protection systems to address emerging risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace.
This was contained in a statement signed by Mr Emmanuel Ulayi, Media officer of NSITF and made available to newsmen on Sunday in Abuja.
Faleye made the call in his presentation titled “Social Security and Protection for Nigerian Workers Amid AI Disruption” at the 2025 Labour Writers Association of Nigeria (LAWAN) workshop in Ibadan.
According to him, the rise of AI and other technological innovations had expanded the scope of work-related risks beyond physical injuries to include technological displacement, income instability and psychological stress from rapid workplace changes.
“Social protection must evolve. We must rethink coverage, redefine risk, and reimagine support. In the era of AI, social security must not only compensate, it must empower,” he said.
Faleye urged the government to invest in intentional policies that would safeguard workers against AI-induced disruptions, while ensuring inclusive and sustainable social protection coverage.
Acknowledging the gains of AI in productivity and efficiency, he expressed concern about the threat of job losses, saying that the key question should be how to protect displaced workers.
He identified Nigeria’s low social protection coverage, dominated by a large informal sector and limited awareness of NSITF’s Employees’ Compensation Scheme, as major challenges.
However, Faleye noted that AI could also be a tool for strengthening social protection through digital identity systems and predictive analytics to prevent fraud and anticipate risks before they occur.
He highlighted key priorities, including expanding social protection, investing in digital literacy and worker reskilling, leveraging AI for efficient service delivery, and fostering collaboration among government, labour and employers.
Faleye urged journalists to amplify discussions on the issue to increase public awareness.
He expressed optimism that with the right policies, adaptation and protection strategies, Nigerian workers would not be left behind in the evolving digital economy.
The annual LAWAN Workshop, was attended by the leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), employers and other stakeholders.
