Connect with us

BIG STORY

Telecom Services Risk Disruption As 800 Workers Begin Strike Over “Precarious Working Conditions”

Published

1 week ago

on

Nigeria’s telecom services are at risk of nationwide disruption as approximately 800 workers from the Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association began a strike on Monday.

The union, primarily comprising contract staff, has warned that failure to meet its demands will result in significant disruptions to telecom operations, potentially leaving millions of subscribers without service.

The union’s key demands include:

– Reinstatement of sacked workers

– Recognition of the union

– Improved working conditions

– Remittance of membership dues

The strike has become inevitable because of the prevalent precarious working conditions our members are enduring in the sector, the refusal of the employers to recognise and respect the constitutional right of these workers to freely associate with the union, and the unjust sack of three members of the union,” it stated in its seven-day strike notice.

The union’s Secretary-General, Okonu Abdullahi, said the association’s 800 workers play a significant role in managing critical infrastructure like base stations for infrastructure companies such as IHS, Huawei, etc.

“The implications of the strike will be massive because we have told all our members not to respond to any service outage from our employers. The fact remains that there are outages every day, and if our engineers do not respond to those outages, subscribers in those areas will be affected,” he said.

He said members of the union include field maintenance engineers, transmission engineers, customer service engineers, fibre engineers, and other critical staff working for telecom service companies.

The culpable companies include among others, Huawei Technologies Nigeria Limited, Tylium Nigeria Limited, Specific Tools & Techniques, CPNL (Chinese Pacific Networks Limited) and CITCC (China International Telecommunications Construction Corporation), JUSPARTNER.

Telcos like MTN, Globacom, Airtel, 9mobile own base stations and fibre infrastructure but often outsource management to servicing companies.

These companies, in turn, sometimes subcontract the work to smaller contractors, who employ the striking workers. This complex web of outsourcing has led to concerns about worker welfare and job security.

The telecom union had in April embarked on a similar strike over a similar situation, which was resolved through a reconciliatory meeting convened by the Ministry of Labour between the union and the telecom servicing companies.

According to the PTECSSAN secretary, “The labour ministry had intervened in our previous industrial action, but unfortunately, the companies are still repeating the same issues, which have now escalated because we have more members participating in this strike.”

When asked if the Federal Government or the companies have engaged with the union on the current industrial action, he said, “We have given them ample opportunity to address our demands, but they have chosen to ignore us. If they continue to neglect our grievances, we will have no choice but to take more drastic measures.”

The officer in charge of the telecoms sector at the Ministry of Labour, Princess Powei, acknowledged the workers’ concerns and assured that the government is committed to resolving the issues promptly.

Powei who was part of the team that resolved the previous strike by the workers in April, stated, “One thing I can assure you is that the strike will not linger. I will start making calls now to see what we can do to ensure that the grievances are addressed.”

In a phone conversation with our correspondent, a top Huawei official from China, identified only as Bruce, denied that any of his team members were participating in the ongoing strike by the PTECSSAN.

Bruce stated that all employees were working in the office and had not received any notification about the strike.

“As far as I know, everyone is working, and I don’t think anyone is involved in this,” Bruce said. “However, I will verify the situation with my team.”

When questioned about field workers, the Huawei representative acknowledged that they might be impacted by the strike, but clarified that they were not directly employed by Huawei. Instead, they were part of subcontracting teams.

In April, when the union embarked on a similar strike, The Punch reached out to Gbenga Adebayo, Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria, for comments. He stated that the union was unknown to mobile operators, saying:

“This group is not known to us in ALTON, and the companies mentioned are not members of ALTON. ALTON subscribes to freedom of association, and we are open to dialogue for the greater good,” he said in a chat.

The union was asked if it had any recognition or affiliation with the telcos; Abdullahi responded, “We’ve tried to contact ALTON, but they’ve never made themselves available to discuss issues with us.

“We wrote to them in 2020 and 2021, sent reminders, and even followed up with calls, but they always had excuses, such as their chairman being out of the country. We’re wondering why they’re ignoring us, especially since they’re aware of our existence,” he said.

According to The Punch, the President of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, Tony Emoekpere, said that he was not aware of the matter regarding the potential strike by telecom workers, as the union is not affiliated with the association.

However, Emoekpere emphasized the critical importance of protecting the telecom sector, saying, “Telecom services have become a critical infrastructure that must be safeguarded at all costs.”

He further stressed that the telecom industry is a vital asset to the country, adding, “Anything that jeopardizes its functionality must be protected. We cannot afford to compromise the stability of this essential sector.”

 

Credit: The Punch

Post Views: 97
Related Topics:
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

BIG STORY

Sanwo-Olu Congratulates His Deputy, Obafemi Hazmat At 60

Published

14 hours ago

on

September 18, 2024

By

  • Says DG is a trusted, committed partner

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, on his Diamond birthday, describing him as “a trusted, committed and dedicated partner.”

He saidDr. Obafemi Hazmat, who clocks 60 on Thursday, is a brother, friend and partner in the Greater Lagos agenda.

The Governor noted that the cordial relationship between him and his deputy has led to good governance and the delivery of dividends of democracy to millions of Lagosians in the last five years.

Dr. Hazmat, a former Lagos State Commissioner for Science and Technology, as well as Commissioner for Works during former Governors Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola administrations, will clock 60 tomorrow, Thursday, September 19.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a congratulatory message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, on Wednesday, praised Dr. Hamzat for his long years of dedicated and meritorious service to Lagos State and Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu, further described Dr. Hazmat as a genius, team player and brilliant administrator, saying that the Deputy Governor’s supportive and positive contributions are evident in the many achievements so far recorded by the current administration.

He said: “On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, as well as the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), I celebrate my dear friend and brother on his 60th birthday.

“Dr. Obafemi Hazmat, who I have known for over two decades, is a genius, administrator per excellence, seasoned technocrat and politician. He is a reliable, hardworking, dependable, supportive, trustworthy and committed partner in the Greater Lagos agenda of our administration.

“The deputy governor’s Diamond birthday is worth celebrating because of his immeasurable contributions to Lagos State and Nigeria, having served passionately in different private and public offices locally and internationally for over three decades.

“As Dr. Obafemi Hazmat joins the league of sexagenarians, I pray that God will increase his good health to enable him to render more service to humanity, Lagos State and Nigeria.”

Post Views: 52
Continue Reading

BIG STORY

Adron Games 2024 Unveiled: ‘Fit To Be The Biggest’ With Sports Icons Daniel Amokachi And Mutiu Adepoju Leading The Charge

Published

14 hours ago

on

September 18, 2024

By

Adron Homes & Properties is excited to announce the official unveiling of the 7th edition of the Adron Games, tagged “Fit to Be the Biggest”. The 2024 edition is set to take place at the renowned Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, from November 29th-30th, 2024, marking the second time the city of Ibadan will host the prestigious sporting event.

The Adron Games is a national platform designed to promote physical fitness, wellness, and community engagement through sports. Having previously held successful editions in Ogun and Lagos states, the 2024 edition is expected to attract over 10,000 athletes and fitness enthusiasts from across Nigeria.

The theme of this year’s Adron Games, “Fit to be the Biggest”, perfectly captures the spirit and ambition of the event. It signifies both the physical and metaphorical journey to greatness, where athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even spectators are encouraged to embrace the challenge of becoming their best selves, physically, mentally, and competitively.

The theme also promotes the idea that fitness is essential to achieving greatness, whether through competitive sports or in everyday life. It motivates participants to push their boundaries and excel, whether on the field, court, or track, and ultimately reminds them that the journey toward fitness and excellence never stops.

This year’s games will feature a wide array of sporting disciplines, including Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, Table Tennis, Snooker, Shot Put, Long Jump, E-sports, and the fan-favorite Tug of War.

In a special highlight, Nigerian football legends Daniel Amokachi and Mutiu Adepoju have been announced as the official ambassadors of the event. Both are renowned for their contributions to Nigerian football and are expected to inspire athletes and spectators alike with their presence.

Key Event Highlights:

• Event Dates: November 29th-30th, 2024

• Venue: Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan

• Ambassadors: Daniel Amokachi, Mutiu Adepoju, Vanessa Jones and MC Relax

• Sporting Events: Football, Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, Table Tennis, Snooker, Shot Put, Long Jump, E-sports, and Tug of War

• Special Guests: Sports icons, fitness personalities, and celebrity appearances

• Participants: Over 10,000 athletes and fitness enthusiasts

• Prizes: Cash prizes, trophies, and awards for winners in various categories

Speaking at the unveiling, Daniel Amokachi emphasized the importance of corporate sponsorship in fostering young Nigerian talents, praising Adron Homes for their commitment to promoting sports.

He said “Sports in Nigeria need more support from businesses and brands to help discover and nurture talents among our youth. Organizations like Adron Homes, through their consistent support of sports, are boosting Nigeria’s global sports performance,” Amokachi said.

Meanwhile, Mutiu Adepoju lauded the unifying and transformative power of sports and commended Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, Group Managing Director of Adron Homes, for his unwavering commitment to organizing this event annually. “Sports is a powerful tool for unity and fitness, both physically and mentally. I commend Aare Adetola Emmanuelking for his continuous support of sports by organizing this prestigious event. His dedication is vital to the development of sports and the empowerment of youth in Nigeria,” Adepoju remarked.

it will be recalled that, Adron Games is an annual sporting event organized by Adron Homes & Properties to promote physical fitness, wellness, and community engagement through sports. Since its inception, the event has grown into a major national platform, bringing together thousands of athletes, corporate teams, and fitness enthusiasts in the spirit of competition and fun.

Adron Homes, through this sporting event, encourages everyone to view fitness and sports as key to unlocking personal and communal growth, building healthier lifestyles, and fostering unity across different regions, backgrounds, and demographics. “Fit to be the Biggest” represents not only the size and scope of the event but also the opportunity for everyone involved to elevate themselves and inspire others through the power of sport.

For more information, sponsorship, vendor registration and inquiries, please contact: Abiodun 08138432335.

Post Views: 67
Continue Reading

BIG STORY

BREAKING: Yahaya Bello Not In EFCC Custody — Spokesman

Published

16 hours ago

on

September 18, 2024

By

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has said that the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is not in their custody.

The commission, in a statement on Wednesday by its spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said that Bello is still wanted and has an outstanding arrest warrant.

He said, “Media reports today that a former Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello is in the holding facility of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is incorrect. The Commission wishes to state that Bello is not in its custody.

“Bello, already declared wanted by the Commission for alleged N80.2billion money laundering charges, remains wanted with a subsisting warrant for his arrest.”

 

More to come…

Post Views: 98
Continue Reading

 

Join Us On Facebook

Most Popular