*’This Distinction Honours Nigerian, African Trade Unionism As A Whole’
By Felix Durumbah, Abuja
It takes accomplishments hewed out of sterner stuff for one to be recognized abroad, outside one’s normal locality.
This was the case with effervescent President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, as he was honoured in
Brussels, the Belgian capital.
On the sidelines of the preparatory meeting for the International Labour Conference, Comrade Ajaero, an emblematic figure in the struggle for human rights, was on Friday awarded the prestigious Arthur Svensson Prize.
The award was presented to him by General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), Luc Triangle.
People&Politics learned that the prize honours an exceptional career, recognises the unwavering commitment of a defender of human rights, labour rights, and individual and collective freedoms in Nigeria and across the African continent.
A statement signed by a labour leader, Comrade Joel Odigie, who witnessed the award ceremony, added: “Despite the dangers, abuses, and intimidation, Comrade Joe Ajaero has remained a man of conviction, action, and vision, whose steadfastness commands respect.
“Beyond the recognition of a singular struggle, this distinction honours Nigerian and African trade unionism as a whole.
“It also pays tribute to all activists who, wherever fundamental rights are under threat, courageously uphold the ideals of social justice and human dignity.”
