President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to veteran trade unionist Alhaji Hassan Adebayo Sunmonu on his 85th birthday, Tuesday, January 6, 2026, celebrating him as a “towering figure” in the history of Nigerian labor relations.
A Pioneer of the Movement
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President recognized Sunmonu’s role as the pioneer President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). Serving from 1978 to 1984, Sunmonu took the helm during a turbulent era following General Olusegun Obasanjo’s disbandment of previous labor factions to form a unified center.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President recognized Sunmonu’s role as the pioneer President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). Serving from 1978 to 1984, Sunmonu took the helm during a turbulent era following General Olusegun Obasanjo’s disbandment of previous labor factions to form a unified center.
The Minimum Wage Legacy
President Tinubu emphasized that the economic protections Nigerians enjoy today were rooted in Sunmonu’s leadership. It was under his tenure that the NLC presented the historic “Charter of Demands,” which directly led to the institutionalization of the National Minimum Wage and a minimum pension scheme.
President Tinubu emphasized that the economic protections Nigerians enjoy today were rooted in Sunmonu’s leadership. It was under his tenure that the NLC presented the historic “Charter of Demands,” which directly led to the institutionalization of the National Minimum Wage and a minimum pension scheme.
“One cannot help but notice Alhaji Sunmonu’s outstanding pioneering leadership and commitment to the well-being of workers,” Tinubu stated. “His career is instructive for younger generations of labor leaders.”
Continental Impact
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Sunmonu’s influence extended across the continent during his time as the General Secretary of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU). The President noted that Sunmonu’s passion and resilience were instrumental in advancing workers’ rights throughout Africa.
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Sunmonu’s influence extended across the continent during his time as the General Secretary of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU). The President noted that Sunmonu’s passion and resilience were instrumental in advancing workers’ rights throughout Africa.
As the octogenarian celebrates his 85th year in 2026, President Tinubu wished the elder statesman continued good health and fulfillment, acknowledging his enduring legacy in Nigeria’s social and economic development.