Don emphasizes relevance of social security to national development, citizens’ welfare

By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja

PROF. Muhammed Nasir Maiturare, former Vice Chancellor, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai, Niger state, has described Social Security as a crucial element in the development of any nation and welfare of its citizens.

Prof. Maiturare who disclosed this as a Guest Lecturer at the First Public Lecture of the Faculty of Management Sciences, Federal University Lokoja (FUL) on Tuesday urged government and non-governmental organisations to embrace the scheme.

The lecture was themed: “Social Security In Nigeria: Sustainability, Innovation, and the Role of Government Versus Private Sector.”

The Professor of Business Administration declared that Social Security in modern societies is capable of reducing social tension, promoting social stability, alleviating poverty, and fostering national development.

While expressing concern over the challenges of social security in Nigeria, Maiturare advocated for government and private sectors to accord the well-being of all citizens topmost priority by ensuring that the less privileged in the society receives the needed support and care.

“Nigeria’s Pension Scheme for retirees from both government and private establishments should be improved upon to reflect better care for them.

“Social Security no doubt, serves as safety net to protect citizens from life’s unpredictable challenges such as illness, unemployment, old age, or other vulnerable conditions hence the need for every seriousness on the part of citizens, government and private organisations to overcome the trend.”

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Lokoja, Professor Olayemi Akinwumi, appreciated the Guest Speaker for his willingness to share his vast knowledge and experience on the critical topic “Social Security.”

Prof. Akinwumi expressed delight that the Faculty of Management Sciences was holding its first public lecture describing the theme as apt and a step in the right direction.

He said that the theme of the Lecture, “Social Security in Nigeria: Sustainability, Innovation, and the Role of Government Versus Private Sector,” addresses one of the most crucial aspects of national development and the welfare of our people.

The Vice Chancellor said that the theme underscored the relevance of social security in Nigeria as a safety net to protect citizens from life’s unpredictable challenges ranging from illnesses, unemployment, old age, or other vulnerable conditions.

Prof. Akinwumi pointed out that Social Security plays a vital role in promotion of social stability, alleviation of poverty, and fosters national growth adding, “Our collective goal is to create a sustainable and innovative social security system that works for all Nigerians.”

“I urge all participants that beyond listening, let us take these ideas and apply them practically in our various fields, ensuring that the knowledge gained here translate into meaningful action that can improve social security in Nigeria.” (Ends)