Nigeria Labour Congress President Wins Arthur Svensson Trade Union Rights Prize 2026

PSI joins the global trade union movement in welcoming the decision to award 2026 Arthur Svensson International Prize for Trade Union Rights to Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero.

A former PSI leader, Ajaero is also the General Secretary of the PSI-affiliated National Union of Electricity Employees of Nigeria. He has been a central figure in Nigeria’s trade union movement, enduring violence, threats, and persecution for his activism. PSI has stood with Ajaero and the Nigeria Labour Congress throughout these difficult moments, including speaking out strongly after his arrest, abduction, and assault in 2024.

Joe Ajaero has built his leadership over many years in the trade union movement. From his role in the National Union of Electricity Employees to his current position as President of the NLC, he has remained focused on protecting workers, defending public services, and speaking out against policies that harm working people. His work in the electricity sector, in particular, has been central in resisting privatisation measures that put jobs and access to essential services at risk.

Ajaero has faced repeated attacks aimed at weakening the labour movement, including arrest, detention, surveillance, physical assault, and the burning of his residence. His courage reflects the reality faced by many trade unionists across Africa. Despite threats, violence, and attempts to silence him, he continues to organise and defend workers.

Daniel Bertossa, PSI's General Secretary, noted that: “Joe Ajaero has stood firm at a time when trade unionists in Nigeria are facing real pressure, intimidation and violence. He has continued to organise, and to defend workers when it would have been easier to step back. This award recognises not just his leadership, but the courage of Nigerian workers who continue to stand up for their rights and for democracy.” 

Daniel Oberko, PSI's Regional Secretary for Africa and Arab Countries, pointed out that: We know that defending workers often comes at a cost, but Joe has continually shown us that courage and consistency can hold the line. This recognition reflects not just his journey, but the strength of workers in the region who continue to organise, resist, and demand dignity.

This award also highlights the need for stronger protection of trade union rights across the continent. 

Ajaero will be formally receiving his award in Oslo on 10 June. The Arthur Svensson International Prize for Trade Union Rights is awarded each year by the Norwegian trade union Styrke to honour individuals and organisations that have made significant contributions to defending trade union rights worldwide.

PSI is proud to note that another PSI affiliate leader, former General Secretary of the National Health Workers Union of Liberia George Poe Williams, won the same prize in 2022 for his courageous defence of trade union rights in Liberia.