Telecoms Workers Suspend Planned Strike

The Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN) has suspended its planned strike, which was to begin yesterday.
The Tide had reported on Wednesday that the Union was poised to begin strike yesterday over alleged anti-labour practices against field engineers perpetrated by subcontractors linked with Huawei Technologies Nigeria Ltd.
According to PTECSSAN, the subcontractors include Reime Group, All Streamenergy Solutions Limited, Uppercrest Limited, Tyllium Nigeria Limited, and Specific Tools and Techniques Limited, which are purportedly engaged in projects awarded by Huawei Technologies Nigeria Limited.
The union said the grievances against these subcontractors include the appalling working conditions resembling modern-day slavery, a lack of entitlements commensurate with workers’ efforts and the absence of adequate security measures, especially during late-night field assignments.
But in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Okonu Abdullahi, on Wednesday, PTECSSAN said the suspension was as a result of agreements reached with the subcontractors it had issues with.
The union said, “PTECSSAN threatened an industrial action effective April 4, 2024 against the undersigned subcontractors to address concerns of her members.
“This led to a meeting at the union’s secretariat, and the following agreements were reached, including companies recognising the fundamental rights of the employees to freely associate with the union.
“That the companies shall put in place health facilities in accordance with the National Health Insurance Scheme covering the employees, their spouses and four of their dependents among others.”
The Tide reports that the union’s demands include immediate recognition of employees’ fundamental rights to association, acknowledgement of the union as the negotiating body for workers’ welfare, and proper remittance of membership dues.
PTECSSAN also called for the regularisation of employment for union members involved in Huawei projects, compliance with pension and health insurance regulations, and initiating negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement.