OSHA Calls For Stronger Safety Culture In Nigerian Navy At Investiture Of Naval Chief
Adedokun Waliyu
2 min read
The Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) has called for the integration of comprehensive safety and health frameworks into all operations of the Nigerian Navy as part of efforts to strengthen personnel welfare and operational effectiveness.
This call was made by the President of OSHA, Olusegun Aderemi, during the investiture ceremony of the Chief of Naval Staff and Principal Staff Officers of Naval Headquarters as Fellows of the Occupational Safety and Health Association United Kingdom.
The event, held on May 5, 2026, at the Vice Admiral DJ Ezeobia Hall, brought together top-ranking naval officers, OSHA officials, distinguished guests, and members of the Nigerian Navy under the theme “Onward Together.”
In his address, Dr. Aderemi described the occasion as historic and symbolic of the long-standing relationship between OSHA and the Nigerian Navy. He emphasized the strategic importance of the Navy in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters, securing economic lifelines, and combating emerging maritime threats.
According to him, the increasingly complex nature of naval operations exposes personnel to significant occupational risks, including physical, environmental, psychological, and technological challenges. He stressed that operational excellence and safety must go hand in hand.
“A secure nation is built not only on strong defence capabilities but also on a workforce that is protected, well-trained, and resilient,” he stated.
The OSHA President urged the Navy’s leadership to prioritize Occupational Safety, Health, and Environmental (OSHE) standards by strengthening safety protocols in maritime and combat operations, improving mental health and psychosocial support systems, and investing in continuous safety training in areas such as cybersecurity and technological warfare.
He further advocated for the promotion of a “safety-first culture” across all levels of command, noting that modern naval operations require proactive risk management and personnel welfare strategies.
Dr. Aderemi reaffirmed OSHA’s readiness to collaborate with the Nigerian Navy through capacity-building programmes, safety advocacy initiatives, and specialized training tailored to the naval operational environment.
“A nation that prioritizes the safety of its defenders is a nation that secures its future,” he added.
The ceremony also featured presentations on OSHA programmes and collaborations with the Nigerian Navy, remarks by the Chairman Council of Fellows, investiture presentations, exchange of souvenirs, and a group photograph session.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Ikechukwu Emmanuel Ogalla, alongside other senior officers, was honoured during the ceremony as part of efforts to deepen institutional partnerships and promote safety consciousness within the nation’s defence architecture.
The event concluded with renewed commitments from both OSHA and the Nigerian Navy to work together toward building a safer, stronger, and more resilient naval force for Nigeria.
