Lagos, Nigeria – April 29, 2025 — In a deeply emotional and thought-provoking address delivered at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja, Dr. Chinyere Amaechi, convener and publisher of Safety and Security Watch Magazines and Media Centre For Promotion Of Safety Awareness (MCPOSA) marked the 2025 International Labour Organization (ILO) World Day for Safety and Health at Work by reflecting on the challenging realities Nigeria has faced so far this year—both personally and nationally.
Dr. Amaechi began her remarks by recounting a personal tragedy that shaped the start of her year.
“I began the year in a mournful mood,” she said, referring to the burial of her mother on January 3, 2025. “She passed away in my arms in September 2024, and the pain has been profound.”
She went on to highlight the alarming state of the nation, lamenting the worsening conditions of hunger, insecurity, and political instability.
“Hunger and starvation continued to rage unchecked, claiming lives across the country with no visible relief efforts,” she noted.
Dr. Amaechi condemned the spate of violent attacks in Plateau and Benue States where more than 100 lives were lost in deadly nighttime raids.
“It is disturbing that despite suspicions pointing to herdsmen, not a single arrest has been made,” she added.
The address also examined the rising political controversies involving women in power, particularly surrounding the name “Natasha.”
She referenced the case of Natasha Osawaru, a young Edo State lawmaker who was removed as Minority Leader following a romantic scandal with a popular musician.
She then pointed to the widely publicized suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of making inappropriate advances.
“Senator Natasha’s situation, which started over a seating dispute, escalated into a six-month suspension—a move many believe may ultimately end her legislative career,” she remarked.
Dr. Amaechi expressed concern over the impact of such events on women’s participation in politics.
“These developments are discouraging and may deepen the political phobia experienced by women seeking leadership roles,” she warned.
She also addressed the political unrest in Rivers State, where the elected governor remained suspended, and an interim regime had taken over governance.
“The emergency-like situation there reflects the growing instability in our democratic institutions,” she observed.
In a solemn tribute, Dr. Amaechi mourned the passing of Pope Francis, who died in the early hours of Easter Monday, just a day after delivering his final Easter blessing.
“If only the world knew that his Easter Sunday message was a farewell blessing,” she said. “May his peace-loving soul rest in peace.”
Despite the challenges, the 2025 ILO Day event proceeded with Nigeria’s customary observance through the Nigeria Safety and Security Awards and a keynote lecture themed: “Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work.”
Dr. Amaechi emphasized the significance of technology in transforming workplace health and safety standards. “We must embrace the power of AI and digital tools to build safer work environments and respond effectively to emerging risks,” she said.
The event drew participants from the public and private sectors, including safety professionals, digital innovators, and civil society groups, and honoured dignitaries such as Hon. Abubakar Sulaiman Gumi, among others.
More details about the event soon….
INN-HOUSE☆ 