THE NIGERIA Labour Congress (NLC) has announced that its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, emerged as the 2026 laureate of the Arthur Svensson International Award for his contributions to the defence of workers’ rights.
The NLC General Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.
Ugboaja said the recognition represented a historic milestone, noting that it marked the first time a Nigerian trade union leader would receive the prestigious global honour.
He explained that the Arthur Svensson Award was presented to individuals who demonstrated exceptional courage, commitment and leadership in defending workers’ rights and trade union freedoms globally.
According to him, Ajaero’s selection underscored the growing visibility of the struggles of Nigerian workers within the international labour movement.
Ugboaja noted that the award came at a time when workers in Nigeria continued to face challenges such as workplace repression, anti-union practices and difficult economic conditions.
“This honour is not just for Comrade Ajaero but for every Nigerian worker who has remained steadfast in the face of intimidation, economic hardship and violations of labour rights,” he said.
He added that the recognition indicated that the global community was paying closer attention to the plight and resilience of Nigerian workers.
He urged workers across the country to remain committed to the pursuit of fair wages, improved working conditions and protection of democratic rights.
According to him, the NLC leadership will leverage the award to intensify advocacy for compliance with international labour standards and deepen its engagement with workers across all sectors.
Ugboaja also disclosed that Ajaero, alongside a delegation of labour leaders, would travel to Oslo, Norway, to formally receive the award on behalf of Nigerian workers.
He expressed appreciation to the Arthur Svensson Foundation and the Norwegian labour movement for recognising the efforts of the NLC and demonstrating solidarity with Nigerian workers. (NAN)
