The Nigerian delegation at the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva is in mourning following the passing of prominent labour leader Domingo Michael Adeleke.
Adeleke, who served as the Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), passed away on Tuesday in Geneva after a brief illness.
He had traveled to Switzerland as a member of the Nigerian delegation to the conference, where he fell ill and was subsequently taken for medical treatment before his death.
An official from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) confirmed the news, stating, “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.”
Adeleke, a member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), was recognized for his advocacy for workers’ welfare and his commitment to the principles of decent work and social justice.
The NLC official remarked, “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.”
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In response to the tragedy, NLC leadership visited the hospital where his body is held to pay their respects and initiate the necessary arrangements for repatriation.
“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 official noted.
His passing has significantly impacted Nigeria’s participation in the global conference, which convenes international representatives to address employment and labour issues. Colleagues have been sharing tributes, remembering Adeleke as a dedicated activist focused on public service and the advancement of workers’ interests.
Expressing its condolences, the NLC stated, “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.”
