Mr. Timothy Iwuagwu, President of the Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON), has criticized the lackadaisical attitude of government officials towards safety measures during the ISPON 10th Anniversary Conference.
The event, themed *”Legal Framework, Safety Compliance and Professionalism: A Panacea for Industrial Development and Economic Growth,”* ran from August 19th to August 24th.
In his speech, Iwuagwu expressed frustration that despite raising awareness about unsafe practices in Niger State after a mining accident, government failed to follow up or seek further insights from ISPON.
Since taking office in October 2023, Iwuagwu noted that ISPON expanded rapidly, opening new offices in several states, and emphasized the importance of training for reducing accidents.
He also called for a revision of university curricula to better match industrial labour market needs.
Iwuagwu, equally called on the media to join in the advocacy for safety compliance to help in reducing loss of lives and properties which could have negative effects on the economy and our country’s reputation.
He equally noted that foreign investors factor countries Safety compliance in business decision-making.
Additionally, Prof. Innocent Okunamiri, ISPON’s first registrar, urged safety officers in companies to register with the institute as required or mandated by ISPON Acts 2014 so as to be recognized as professionals, as opposed to mere practitioners.
The event concluded with the unveiling of ISPON’s new logo, updated policy guidelines, and regulations for safety management in Nigeria. The conference attracted ISPON members and stakeholders from across the country.
