During the Distinguished Safety Engineers Annual Lecture held at Watbridge Hotel, Uyo, on September 28, 2024, Dr. Vanessa Phala-Moyo, the ILO Country Director for Nigeria, Liberia, Ghana, and Sierra Leone, delivered a goodwill message commending Governor Umo Eno for his safety policies in Akwa Ibom State. She expressed condolences on the passing of his wife, Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, and highlighted the positive developments in the state, as noted in a letter from the Immediate Past National Chairman of NISafetyE, Engr. Prof. Akaninyene Ekong.
The lecture, themed “Integrating Safety and Disaster Risk Management into Sustainable Infrastructural Development: The Akwa Ibom State Perspective,” was presented by Engr. Prof. Akaninyene Ekong, a prominent Project Manager and newly appointed Professor in Safety and Disaster Management. The event attracted delegates from across the country, focusing on the vital connections between safety and disaster risk management in fostering sustainable infrastructure.
Prof. Ekong outlined several critical factors for building a resilient safety culture, including education and training, safety evaluations, management commitment, compliance with standards, and effective accident reporting. He also identified barriers to disaster risk reduction such as political will, institutional capacity, and cultural factors.
Recommendations
Prof. Ekong made several recommendations to enhance safety and disaster risk management in the state:
- Creation of a Uniform Emergency Call Code: Establish a uniform short code (e.g., 911) linked to essential services like police, fire, and medical emergencies.
- Engagement of Engineers as Safety Personnel: Utilize engineers in safety roles across engineering-related government departments based on their expertise.
- Adoption of Approved Safety Codes: Implement NISafetyE’s approved code of practice for construction safety in infrastructure projects.
- Inauguration of the State Technical Committee on Engineering Monitoring: Establish a committee to ensure compliance with construction standards.
- Amendment of Relevant Legislation: Revise the Akwa Ibom State Infrastructure and Asset Management Act to include safety in its title, enhancing the visibility and authority of the safety department.
- Procurement of Rescue Equipment: Equip the fire service with critical rescue tools.
- Training for Civil Servants: Implement safety training across all government ministries and agencies.
- Inclusion of Safety in Government Contracts: Ensure safety compliance is a criterion in all government contracts.
- Synergy Among Disaster Risk Agencies: Promote collaboration among agencies focused on disaster risk reduction and public awareness.
Prof. Ekong emphasized that substantial development requires collective action from the community, government, and stakeholders, highlighting the importance of taking ownership of public infrastructure and adhering to safety standards in all activities.