Safety Professionals Seek Traditional Rulers Backing In Kogi

The Institute of Safety Professionals of Nigeria (ISPON) has appealed to traditional rulers in Kogi State to support ongoing efforts aimed at strengthening safety awareness, compliance, and hazard prevention across communities and workplaces in the state.

The call was made during an endorsement visit to His Royal Highness, Ali Yusuf Ameadaji, the Achadu Oko Ata and Prime Minister of the Igala Kingdom, by the newly appointed Kogi State Government Consultant on Safety Standards, Regulation and Compliance,  Dr. Friday Sani, who also serves as the Kogi State Chairman of ISPON.

Speaking after the visit, Dr. Sani described the royal endorsement as a significant milestone in advancing safety consciousness and institutional development in Kogi State.

He noted that traditional institutions play a vital role in mobilising grassroots support for safety campaigns, environmental protection, and public awareness initiatives.

According to him, the support from the royal father would further strengthen safety compliance efforts and create an enabling environment for professional safety institutions like ISPON to thrive in the state.

“We must all become safety conscious in order to maintain a healthy and hazard-free environment. Prevention remains the most effective approach to safeguarding lives and property,” he said.

Dr. Sani stressed the need for collective responsibility in promoting safe practices in homes, schools, workplaces, and public spaces, adding that safety culture must be embraced by all residents.

He also called for stronger government policies and enforcement mechanisms to improve safety standards and security across Kogi State, noting that effective regulation would help reduce workplace accidents, environmental hazards, and other preventable incidents.

Speaking on the institute’s history, he explained that ISPON was established in 1980 and later backed by an Act of Parliament and signed into law in 2014, adding that the institute has continued to promote professionalism and global best practices in safety management nationwide.

Dr. Sani described the strengthening of ISPON’s presence in Kogi State as a historic development capable of deepening public confidence in safety administration and institutional growth.

“This is the first time we are witnessing this level of structured commitment towards the protection of human lives and safety governance in the state,” he stated.

He further urged organisations, business owners, and community leaders to collaborate with ISPON in promoting safety education and effective risk management strategies.

According to him, sustained synergy among government agencies, traditional rulers, professional bodies, and residents would significantly improve public safety outcomes across the state.

Dr. Sani also commended the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, describing the governor as “one of the best things God has done for Kogi State.”

He added that within the next one year, ISPON is expected to create numerous employment opportunities within and outside the state, as safety practice certification and licensing can now be obtained in Kogi State.