The Chief Port Safety Officer (CPSO) of the Lagos Ports Complex, Engr. Abdullahi Kakale, has called for stronger attention to both physical and psychosocial well-being in the workplace, stressing that safety should be seen as a shared responsibility that goes beyond procedures and compliance.
He made this known during the safety lecture organised by the Lagos Port Complex on 29th April , 2026 in commemoration of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, where stakeholders from across departments gathered to reflect on workplace safety practices and employee welfare.
Engr. Kakale expressed appreciation to all participants for their engagement in the programme, noting that their contributions demonstrated a collective commitment to building a safer and healthier working environment within the port system. He said the active participation of staff and stakeholders reflected a growing safety consciousness that must be sustained.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Ensuring a Safe and Psychosocially Healthy Working Environment for All,” the CPSO emphasised that workplace safety extends beyond physical infrastructure and operational protocols. According to him, equal attention must be given to emotional and psychological well-being, including how workers communicate, support one another, and manage workplace stress.
He also commended the Lagos Ports Complex Management under the leadership of Mr. Ibrahim Lawal for organising the event, describing the gesture as a strong demonstration of commitment to worker welfare and the strengthening of safety culture within the organization.
He further appreciated facilitators, speakers, safety officers, and all departments that contributed to the success of the programme, noting that their efforts continue to reinforce safety as a living culture rather than a mere policy requirement.
Kakale urged employees and stakeholders to apply the lessons learned in their daily operations, encourage open communication, and uphold safety standards at all times. He stressed that every action taken within the workplace contributes to the overall safety and well-being of all staff.
Also speaking, the Acting General Manager, Safety and Environment at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Engr. Adesanya Adebola, described the World Day for Safety and Health at Work as a vital annual event expected of organisations globally, as outlined by the International Labour Organization (ILO). He noted that the occasion serves as a platform to reinforce the importance of workplace safety and to remind employees of the need to remain safety conscious at all times.
He emphasised that NPA management places high priority on the well being of its workforce, urging employees to carry out their duties safely and adopt safety as a way of life. According to him, workers should ensure they remain safe from the moment they leave their homes to when they return, highlighting personal responsibility in maintaining a safe working environment.
Addressing truck operators, Engr. Adesanya said the Authority is equally committed to ensuring the safety of trucks operating within and around the port, noting that minimum safety standards have been put in place and must be complied with before accessing port facilities. He stressed that it is essential for cargo to reach its destination safely, warning that non compliance could result in accidents, cargo loss, and increased insurance costs.
He further recalled past incidents involving fallen cargo and road accidents, urging operators to properly maintain their vehicles to reduce risks and improve efficiency. He added that with the rising cost of vehicles, proper maintenance is not only a safety requirement but also an economic necessity, as it helps preserve assets and sustain their contribution to port activities.
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