By Milcah Tanimu

The Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria has put a pause on its scheduled strike, originally slated to commence on Thursday.

According to a statement issued by the General Secretary, Okonu Abdullahi, on Wednesday, the union made the decision following successful negotiations with the subcontractors it had grievances with.

Initially, the union had announced intentions on April 2 to proceed with an indefinite strike due to unresolved issues with subcontractors associated with Huawei Technologies Nigeria Ltd.

These subcontractors comprised Reime Group, Allstream Energy Solutions Ltd., Uppercrest Ltd., Tyllium Nigeria Ltd., and Specific Tools and Techniques Ltd.

In their statement, the union emphasized, “PTECSSAN threatened an industrial action effective April 4, 2024, against the undersigned subcontractors to address concerns of her members.”

Subsequently, discussions ensued at the union’s secretariat, resulting in agreements including the recognition of employees’ rights to associate freely with the union.

The union’s demands encompassed immediate acknowledgment of employees’ fundamental rights, recognition of the union as the authorized negotiating body for workers’ welfare, and the proper remittance of membership dues.

Moreover, PTECSSAN called for the regularization of employment for union members engaged in Huawei projects, compliance with pension and health insurance regulations, and the initiation of negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement.

Despite attempts by the Ministry of Labour and Employment to mediate through conciliatory meetings, the union alleged a lack of constructive engagement from the companies involved, leaving industrial action as the only recourse.