The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) 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 on April 28, 2026.
In a statement issued by its Chief Public Relations Officer, Callistus Unyimadu, the Managing Director of the corporation, Kayode Opeifa, said this year’s theme, “Good psychosocial working environments: A pathway to thriving workers and strong organizations,” is both timely and relevant to the NRC’s operations.
Opeifa noted the demanding nature of railway work, stressing that employees—from train drivers to administrative staff—share responsibility for ensuring passenger safety across the country’s rail network.
He highlighted the critical roles played by workers on major routes, including Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kaduna, and Warri-Itakpe standard gauge lines, as well as narrow gauge corridors such as Port Harcourt-Aba and Lagos-Kano.
“Nigerians trust us to move them safely, and that trust begins with how safe and supported we feel at work,” he said.
The NRC boss acknowledged the physical and mental strain associated with railway operations, citing long shifts, night duties, and the pressure to maintain strict schedules. He warned that stress, fatigue, and poor communication could heighten safety risks.
“A tired driver, a distracted technician, or a demoralized station officer is a risk to the entire rail system,” he said.
According to the statement, feedback from internal safety forums and staff engagement sessions revealed concerns over heavy workloads, irregular shift patterns, inadequate welfare facilities at remote stations, and strained interdepartmental relations.
Opeifa said the corporation would now treat psychosocial safety as a core component of its broader safety strategy.
As part of its 2026 action plan, the NRC plans to improve working conditions, expand staff welfare and medical services, and promote a more inclusive workplace culture.
He also encouraged workers experiencing stress or emotional challenges to seek help through supervisors, union representatives, or medical personnel.
“Silence is not safety,” he added.
The managing director urged employees to take personal responsibility for fostering a safe and healthy work environment by respecting rest periods, supporting colleagues, and reporting psychosocial risks promptly.
“Safety on the railway isn’t just about tracks, signals, and protective equipment—it’s about people,” the statement said.
Opeifa linked employee wellbeing to improved service delivery and public confidence in rail transportation, noting that a healthy workforce is essential for efficient operations.
“A healthy, supported workforce is how we keep NRC running—safely, reliably, and proudly,” he said.
The commemoration highlights the growing global focus on mental health and psychosocial factors in workplace safety, with the NRC signalling a shift toward more holistic safety practices.
