Trade unionist Aremu Abiodun hails reappointment of Issa Aremu as DG of MINILS
The Executive Secretary of the Dr. Kolagbodi Memorial Foundation, Comrade Aremu Abiola Abiodun, has congratulated Comrade Issa Obalowu Aremu on his reappointment as the Director-General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), describing it as a well-deserved recognition of his lifelong commitment to labour development and social justice.
In a heartfelt congratulatory message, Comrade Aremu, a veteran trade unionist and student activist, praised Issa Aremu’s visionary leadership and consistent input toward transforming MINILS into a hub of innovation, education, and pro-worker research.
“I salute you for the giant strides and innovative steps you are bringing to bear at the institute. These achievements attest to your capacity and your deep roots in the Nigerian labour movement,” he said.
Reflecting on Issa Aremu’s legacy, Comrade Abiodun highlighted his remarkable journey from student activism during his days at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria under the Progressive Youth Movement of Nigeria (PYMN), to his rise as a prominent figure in the trade union movement.
He noted that Comrade Aremu’s unjust expulsion from ABU in 1981, alongside other activists like AbdulRahman Black, symbolized the harsh response of university administrators to ideological student leaders.
“His courage to return, retake JAMB, and complete his studies at the University of Port Harcourt is a testament to his resilience and commitment,” Abiodun added.
Calling for a revitalization of intellectual engagement within the institute, Comrade Abiodun encouraged the newly reappointed DG to introduce an Annual MINILS Lecture Series to serve as a platform for graduates and academics to engage in public discourse and policy development.
He concluded by urging Comrade Aremu to draw upon his Pan-Africanist background in shaping the future of MINILS.
“Congratulations once more. Your reappointment is not only a personal victory but also a win for the Nigerian working class and the progressive movement at large,” he said.
The Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, located in Ilorin, remains the nation’s foremost training and research centre for labour education, social dialogue, and workers’ empowerment.
