Engr. Reuben Temerigha, Managing Director of Westend Diamond Energy Limited (WEDEL), has emphasized the need for all organizations, regardless of industry, to ensure a safe and healthy work environment for their employees.
Temerigha made this remark during the first anniversary of the passing of the late Olabode Olawuyi, organized by the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT-OAU) on Wednesday at the Pit Theatre, Department of Dramatic Arts, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.
The event, themed "Workplace Safety Awareness Workshop," honored Olawuyi, a zoologist who courageously shielded his subordinate from a lion attack at the OAU Zoological Garden.
Represented by Mr. Harry Ipalibo, WEDEL’s Manager of Health, Safety, Security, and Environment, Temerigha acknowledged that workplace hazards remain a pressing challenge.
He cited recent incidents such as the 2024 Lagos building collapse and a factory fire in Ogun State, alongside rising cases of workplace violence in the health sector, as stark reminders of safety risks.
He identified key safety challenges, including a lack of awareness and training, non-compliance with safety regulations, hazardous work environments, fatigue, human error, and poor safety culture.
To address these, he recommended comprehensive training programs, strict enforcement of safety protocols, regular safety audits, risk assessments, and employee well-being initiatives.
NAAT-OAU Chairman, Mr. Matthew Oluwaniyi, described the event as a tribute to Olawuyi’s heroism and called for the OAU Zoological Garden to be named after him. He stressed that his legacy demands action, not just remembrance.
National NAAT President, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, represented by Dr. Olajokun Hassan, commended the organizers and urged the union to submit a formal proposal to back their demands.
OAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simeon Bamire, represented by Deputy VC (Administration), Prof. Yomi Daramola, reassured attendees that the university has implemented measures to prioritize workplace safety and prevent future tragedies.
Registrar Mr. Adetunji Bakare emphasized that the gathering was to celebrate Olawuyi’s bravery, not mourn his passing. He commended his sacrifice, citing the saying, “Be ashamed to die until you have given your best to humanity.”
NAAT Southwest Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Adebiyi Augustine, compared Olawuyi’s self-sacrifice to that of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that he died ensuring the safety of others. He encouraged civil servants to leave a lasting impact through their service.
Representatives from OAU unions—including ASUU, CONUA, NANTS, NASU, and SSANU—participated in a panel discussion on workplace safety and urged the university to take proactive steps in addressing safety concerns.
The event concluded with a collective call for stronger workplace safety policies to prevent similar incidents and safeguard employees across all sectors.
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