The immediate past President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and former global leader of the International Trade Union Confederation, Ayuba Wabba, has been thrown into mourning following the death of his father, Jidayi Filibus Asarya Wabba.
A family statement said the elder statesman died on January 8, 2026, at the age of 90.
He was described as a devout Christian, retired military officer and respected community leader who lived a life marked by discipline, service and integrity.
According to the family, the late Wabba served in the Nigerian Army for 35 years before retiring to private life, where he dedicated himself to community development and grassroots leadership.
After leaving the military, he continued to serve his people as the District Head of Sabongari-Puba in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, where he led self-help initiatives, mentored young people and offered guidance at elders’ council meetings.
The family noted that his humility, leadership qualities and commitment to service earned him widespread respect within and beyond his community.
The late Jidayi Filibus Asarya Wabba is survived by his wife, 11 children and 26 grandchildren, including Comrade Ayuba Wabba, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s labour movement and the holder of the traditional title of Barden Askira (Chief Defender) of the Askira Emirate.
The family announced that he will be buried on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in his hometown of Sabongari-Puba, Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.
Reacting to his death, the Emir of Askira, His Royal Highness Alhaji Mai Abdullahi Ibn Askirama, described the late Wabba as a man whose life was defined by service, discipline and moral guidance, noting that his courage and wisdom would continue to inspire his family and the wider community.
