The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by David Zacharias, who represents Idah Federal Constituency of Kogi State.

The House of Representatives on Wednesday called on the Federal Government to include a dedicated budget line for occupational safety and health (OSH) initiatives across all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), beginning with the 2026 Appropriation Bill.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by David Zacharias, who represents Idah Federal Constituency of Kogi State. He said the absence of specific funding has led to widespread unsafe work environments, workplace accidents, and poor enforcement of safety policies.

In 2022, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation mandated MDAs to establish OSH desks, but lawmakers said implementation has been hampered by inadequate resources.

Citing Nigeria’s ratification of International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions 155 and 187, Zacharias argued that the government is obliged to ensure safe and decent work conditions. He warned that the current “envelope budgeting system” leaves OSH underfunded, undermining efficiency and exposing workers to unnecessary risks.

CBI News reports that the House urged the Ministries of Finance and Budget, the Budget Office, and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service to create a separate budget line for workplace safety. It also mandated its Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations to work with relevant agencies and the Appropriations Committee to oversee implementation.