The Federal Inland Revenue Service has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the safety, health, and well-being of its employees, particularly in light of the growing influence of digitalisation and artificial intelligence in the workplace.
This assurance was made during the second edition of the FIRS World Day for Safety and Health at Work, held on Monday, which focused on the theme: “The Impacts of Digitalisation and AI on Workers’ Safety and Health.”
The event brought together key stakeholders within the organisation, including the Executive Chairman, Dr Zacch Adedeji, who delivered a keynote address highlighting the agency’s approach to technology-driven tax reforms and staff welfare.
Dr Adedeji noted that while the agency is embracing innovation to boost tax compliance and operational efficiency, it also recognises the need to address emerging challenges related to employee mental health, cybersecurity threats, and overall staff well-being.
“Innovation must walk hand-in-hand with protection, and as the Service digitises, it must also shield staff from evolving risks,” he said.
He added that the Service’s objective goes beyond building a digital and data-driven tax administration. It also aims to develop a system that “acknowledges and supports employees” through every phase of its transformation.
As part of the activities marking the day, FIRS organised a Management Commemoration Symposium, a Safety Awareness Rally, and an Interactive Safety Fair, where safety vendors conducted live demonstrations on best practices for workplace health and protection.
Participants described the World Day for Safety and Health at Work as an important opportunity to reflect on the agency’s workplace safety strategies and to reaffirm the priority placed on employee protection in a changing work environment.
FIRS also showcased its recent efforts to entrench a culture of safety within the organisation. These include the implementation of a Health, Safety, and Environment Management System, with trained safety personnel now stationed across its offices nationwide to oversee and maintain health and safety standards.
