The Nigerian delegation to the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, alongside the country’s labour movement, has been thrown into mourning following the death of labour leader Domingo Michael Adeleke.
Adeleke, who served as Chairman of the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), reportedly died on Tuesday in Geneva after a brief illness.
He was part of Nigeria’s delegation to the conference when he fell ill and was taken for medical attention, where he later passed away.
The incident was confirmed by an official of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), who described him as a committed trade unionist devoted to workers’ welfare.
“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 official said.
A member of the Nigeria Civil Service Union (NCSU), Adeleke led the Lagos State Joint Negotiating Council, where he was actively involved in labour advocacy and workers’ welfare initiatives.
According to the NLC, he remained committed throughout his career to promoting decent work 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 official added.
The NLC also confirmed that its leadership had visited the hospital where his remains are being kept and had begun 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 said.
His death has cast a shadow over Nigeria’s participation in the ongoing International Labour Conference, which brings together governments, employers, and workers’ representatives from across the world to deliberate on labour and employment issues.
Tributes have continued to pour in from labour leaders and colleagues who described Adeleke as a passionate advocate for workers’ rights and welfare.
The NLC extended condolences to his family, colleagues, and the wider labour movement, describing his passing as a major loss.
“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 remembered by colleagues as a dedicated labour activist who spent much of his career advancing public service and protecting the interests of Nigerian workers.