The Osun State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has congratulated a former President of the Congress and renowned labour leader, Comrade Hassan Adebayo Sunmonu, as he marks his 85th birthday.
In a congratulatory message signed by Comr. Christopher Arapasopo, Osun NLC chairman on behalf of workers and pensioners in the state, the NLC described Sunmonu who was the pioneer President of the Nigeria Labour Congress and a former General Secretary of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU) as a towering figure whose contributions have continued to shape the labour movement in Nigeria and beyond.
The Council also celebrated Sunmonu’s twin brother, Pa Hussein Sunmonu, on the occasion of their birthday.
According to the NLC, Pa Sunmonu has, over the decades, made remarkable contributions to the social, economic and cultural development of the working class and pensioners, while setting enduring standards that continue to inspire generations of labour leaders.
The Congress noted that Sunmonu’s leadership was marked by courage, vision and selfless dedication to the emancipation of workers, describing him as a continental resource who devoted his life to promoting dignity, freedom and social justice for the African working.
“It was under your administration that the National Minimum Wage and Minimum Pension were institutionalized with the enactment of the National Minimum Wage Act (1981).
“It was also during your leadership that the May Day Workers Celebration was officially recognized as national holiday. Amidst other milestones, in February 1980 you launched the “Workers Charter of Demands” which has become a beacon to successive generations of trade union leaders.
“We are indeed delighted to join your family, friends and well-wishers from far and near to celebrate with you today and we all pray for more strength, sound health, peace and fulfilling years of exemplary service to God, the working class and humanity as you mark this milestone”, the statement added.
