Some environmentalists, on Saturday, called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in Nigeria’s water sector.

They made the call on Saturday in Lagos at the close of a two-day International Natural Resources Conference and Water Sector Awards (iNatConf & WoSAwards 2025).

Oluwadare Oyebode of the Afe Babalola University, Ondo State, decried poor governance, weak enforcement of safety laws, and inadequate funding of the sector.

He said that the gaps had left many people vulnerable to illnesses and injuries, undermining service delivery and public confidence.

Presenting a paper on occupational health and safety in the water industry, Mr Oyebode said that workers remained exposed to chemical, biological, physical and ergonomic hazards.

He said that provision of protective equipment, climate-resilient infrastructure and regular training for safety officers were important in enforcing safety measures.

“Protecting the workers is both a moral duty and a key step to ensuring sustainable water supply,” he added.

Cletus Akhigbe, the director-general of the Quality and Management System Auditors Institute, highlighted the importance of internationally recognised standards.

Mr Akhigbe said that standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 helped organisations to manage risks and adapt to modern disruptions.

According to him, management system standards integrate safety, governance and environmental performance, leading to fewer workplace incidents, stronger trust, cost savings and alignment with global environmental, social and governance principles.

Peter Ahunarh, national director of the Ghana Red Cross Society, urged members of the public to acquire basic first aid knowledge.

He said that such knowledge could save lives and reduce pressure on hospitals during emergencies.

Mr Ahunarh said that first aiders were often the first to arrive at accident scenes and their actions could determine survival.

He outlined basic principles, including ensuring safety, calling for help, stopping bleeding, and arranging hospital transfer, as important.

The director cautioned against rushing into danger.

He added that cardiopulmonary resuscitation, recovery positions, and management of shock, wounds and burns remained essential skills.

“First aid is a humanitarian service that strengthens community resilience in times of emergency,” Mr Ahunarh said.

(NAN)