GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — Nigeria’s delegation to the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva has been thrown into mourning following the death of prominent labour leader, Domingo Michael Adeleke, after a brief illness.
Adeleke, who served as Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), passed away on Tuesday while attending the global labour conference as a member of Nigeria’s delegation.
According to reports, the labour leader fell ill during the conference and was rushed for medical attention. However, he later succumbed to the illness.
Confirming the development, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) described Adeleke as a dedicated trade unionist whose unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare and social justice earned him respect across the labour movement.
“It is with deep sorrow that the Nigeria Labour Congress and the entire trade union movement in Nigeria, especially the 2026 Workers’ Delegates to the International Labour Conference, announce the passing of Comrade Domingo Michael Adeleke, who died today in Geneva after a brief illness while attending the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference,” the Congress said in a statement.
A member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), Adeleke played a significant role in labour advocacy and negotiations in Lagos State, championing policies aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of public servants.
The NLC noted that throughout his career, he remained steadfast in promoting decent work, workers’ rights, and social justice.
“Comrade Domingo was a committed trade unionist whose dedication to Nigerian workers and the struggle for decent work took him to the global stage right to the end. His loss is felt deeply by all who knew him and worked alongside him,” the statement added.
The Congress disclosed that its leadership had visited the hospital where his remains are being kept and had commenced arrangements for the repatriation of his body to Nigeria.
“The NLC leadership earlier today went to the hospital to see his body in solidarity, mourn his passing, and begin the process of arranging the necessary procedures,” the statement noted.
Adeleke’s death has cast a shadow over Nigeria’s participation at the ongoing International Labour Conference, an annual gathering that brings together governments, employers, and workers’ representatives from around the world to discuss key labour and employment issues.
Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders, colleagues, and workers across the country, many of whom remembered him as a passionate advocate for workers’ rights and a tireless public servant.
The NLC extended its condolences to Adeleke’s family, colleagues, and members of the labour movement, describing his passing as a significant loss to the struggle for workers’ welfare in Nigeria.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, the NLC family, and all comrades across Lagos State. May his soul rest in peace, and may his commitment to workers’ rights continue to inspire us,” the Congress said.
Adeleke is widely remembered as a dedicated labour activist whose career was marked by service, advocacy, and an enduring commitment to the advancement of Nigerian workers.
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