‎BY AHMED AKANBI
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‎The Labour Party has congratulated the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, on his conferment of the prestigious Arthur Svensson International Prize for 2026.
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‎The award was presented to Ajaero in Oslo, Norway, in recognition of his decades of courageous and selfless commitment to the defence of workers’ rights, social justice, democratic freedoms and the dignity of labour.
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‎In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Ken Eluma Asogwa, the party described the honour as both a personal milestone for Ajaero and a proud moment for the Nigerian labour movement and the Labour Party.
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‎”This remarkable recognition is not only a personal milestone for Comrade Ajaero but also a proud moment for the Nigerian labour movement and indeed the Labour Party, whose enduring bond with the organised labour movement remains constitutional, historical and ideological,” the statement said.
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‎The party noted that Ajaero is the first Nigerian labour leader to receive the distinguished international award.
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‎”His fearless resistance to anti-people policies spanning over three decades, his relentless advocacy for fair wages, and his unwavering defence of democratic space have earned him deserved global respect and admiration,” LP said.
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‎The Labour Party added that its constitutional affiliation with organised labour makes the achievement even more significant.
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‎”As constitutionally affiliated partners in the struggle for equity, justice and the welfare of the Nigerian worker, we celebrate this global acknowledgement of one of our own, whose steadfast leadership has continued to inspire millions within and beyond our shores,” the statement added.
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‎The party expressed confidence that the honour will further strengthen Ajaero’s resolve to champion the cause of Nigerian workers and the broader struggle for social and economic justice.
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‎”On behalf of the leadership, members and supporters of the Labour Party across Nigeria and in the Diaspora, we congratulate Comrade Joe Ajaero on this historic achievement,” Asogwa said.