As the National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria (NISCN) prepares for its presidential election on March 10, 2025, Engr. John Obajinmi, FIMS, has emerged as a strong contender. He promised to transform the council and enhance its national and global relevance.
Obajinmi, a respected figure in industrial safety, has outlined a comprehensive agenda, focused on increasing NISCN’s visibility, fostering unity among stakeholders, and introducing sector-specific safety templates.
He has also pledged to drive innovation, strengthen collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMLE), and align the council’s policies with International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions.
With workplace safety becoming an increasingly critical issue in Nigeria, industry experts believe Obajinmi’s leadership could mark a turning point for the sector. His vast experience in safety management and his record of implementing transformative ideas have earned him widespread support from professionals and stakeholders.
Observers noted that his commitment to global safety standards and his ability to engage key industry players position him as a candidate capable of elevating NISCN’s role in shaping workplace safety policies. His tenure as Vice Chairman 1 of the FCT Chapter and later as Acting Chairman further highlights his leadership experience within the council.
Beyond his contributions to NISCN, Obajinmi has played a pivotal role in developing national policies on occupational safety and health in Nigeria, working closely with the FMLE in alignment with ILO safety conventions C155 and C187.
He is also an international mentor with the New York Academy of Sciences and a fellow of multiple professional organizations, including the Institute of Management Specialists, the Institute of Management Consultants, and the Emergency Crisis Disaster Risk Management Institute.
His leadership as the pioneer Branch President of the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) at the Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA) has further positioned him as a strong advocate for workers’ safety.
Given NISCN’s tripartite role in interfacing with the Federal Government, labour unions (NLC/TUC), the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), and other stakeholders, Obajinmi’s experience is seen as an asset.
Speaking with journalists, Obajinmi acknowledged the contributions of past NISCN leaders and expressed his commitment to building on their successes.
“We have had great leaders in the past, and I will learn from their strengths, successes, and mistakes to lead a rebranded council with fresh visions and strategies,” he stated.
He further emphasised the need for unity within NISCN, pledging to bring past leaders together and resolve differences to ensure that all stakeholders contribute to the growth of the organization and the advancement of workplace safety in Nigeria.
“My administration will focus on developing safety checklists and templates for different sectors of the economy, including entertainment, transport, engineering, and public and private institutions,” he added.
With the election date fast approaching, all eyes are on NISCN members as they prepare to decide the council’s future leadership. Many believe that, if elected, Obajinmi’s leadership could usher in a new era of industrial safety excellence in Nigeria.
