Anambra NLC Pays Tribute to Late General Secretary, Ugboaja, Celebrates His Legacy

By Uzo Ugwunze

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Anambra State Council, has honoured the late former NLC General Secretary, Comrade Emmanuel Okechukwu Ugboaja, Esq., describing him as a committed labour leader who dedicated his life to workers’ welfare and the defence of the downtrodden.

The tribute ceremony, themed “Honouring a Life of Service, Commitment and Unwavering Dedication to the Labour Movement,” brought together labour leaders, government officials and union members to celebrate Ugboaja’s contributions to the labour movement.

Speaking at the event, NLC Anambra State Chairman, Comrade Humphrey Emeka Nwafor, described the deceased as a selfless leader who treated workers’ challenges as personal concerns.

He urged labour leaders to emulate Ugboaja’s dedication, commitment and responsiveness to workers’ welfare.

Nwafor also announced that the late labour leader would be buried on Saturday, November 14, 2026, in Abia State.

Representing the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Anaghalu Ikenna described Ugboaja as a courageous unionist whose contributions to labour affairs left enduring footprints.

He recalled the deceased’s intervention during the industrial dispute at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH), noting that his determination to resolve workers’ grievances was evident even through a telephone call.

The Special Guest of Honour, former Anambra State Head of Service, Dame Theodora Igwegbe, described Ugboaja as a fulfilled man who made meaningful contributions to society despite his death at the age of 60.

Igwegbe, a lawyer and coursemate of the deceased at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, said his legacy of service and good deeds would remain unforgettable.

Former NLC leaders in Anambra State, including Comrades Anthony Ugozor, Charles Onyeagba and Jerry Nnubia, described Ugboaja as an outstanding labour leader and an “iroko” in the South-East labour movement.

They noted that he consistently championed workers’ welfare, justice and harmony, describing him as erudite, outspoken and labour-friendly.

The Anambra State Head of Service, Barr. Anuli Iwuno, represented by Dr. Ifeoma Agbaizu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Supervisory Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service, expressed sadness over the death of the distinguished labour leader.

She prayed for strength and comfort for his family, the NLC and Nigerian workers.

The programme was anchored by NLC Anambra State Vice-Chairman, Comrade Barr. Ifeanyi Nweke-Nzelue, while Comrade Maureen-Stone Enujioke presented the citation of the deceased.

Also present was Barr. Mrs. Nkechi Gozie Nwosu, Industrial Relations Officer, Office of the Head of Service, among others.

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