Workers in Nigeria’s telecommunications industry are set to begin an indefinite nationwide strike starting tomorrow, September 9, 2024.
The strike is organized by the Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN).
The union represents a variety of crucial workers, including field maintenance engineers, transmission engineers, customer service engineers, and fibre engineers.
The strike could disrupt telecommunications services across the country if it is not resolved quickly.
PTECSSAN has ongoing disputes with 39 telecoms servicing companies.
Among these companies is Specific Tools & Technology Limited, which has recently dismissed three of the union’s members.
These 39 companies are essential in supporting telecommunications operators throughout Nigeria.
PTECSSAN had earlier issued a seven-day notice to these companies, demanding action on their issues.
The demands include recognition of the employees’ right to associate with the union.
The union also wants to be acknowledged as the official negotiating body for workers’ welfare.
PTECSSAN is calling for immediate payment of membership dues into the union’s account as previously agreed.
Another key demand is the proper acknowledgment of workers’ years of service.
The union seeks the start of pension deductions and remittances according to the Pension Act.
They are also pushing for approval of the National Health Insurance Scheme to cover employees, their spouses, and four dependents.
Further, PTECSSAN demands that union members be enrolled in the Group Life Insurance as required by the Pension Reform Act 2004.
The union is calling for better leave and leave allowance policies in line with international standards.
They also want salary reviews to reflect current economic conditions.
Another significant demand is for the provision of operational vehicles or a revised self-drive/self-rental scheme.
The union is also pushing for the elimination of 24-hour work shifts, advocating for standard work hours.
Workers are asking for an end to work overload, where employees are given additional tasks beyond their roles.
PTECSSAN demands adherence to occupational health and safety standards following international best practices.
Abdullahi Okonu, General Secretary of PTECSSAN, announced the strike, saying, “We have made every effort to engage with employers, but our legitimate demands have been disregarded.”
He added, “This strike is a last resort to protect our members’ rights and well-being. We urge the public to understand our position and support our struggle for fair treatment.”
The union has urged Nigerians to bear with them during the strike period.
PTECSSAN promises to continue engaging with employers and the government to resolve the issues.
However, the strike will persist until the demands are met.
The potential impact of this strike on Nigeria’s telecommunications sector could be significant.
Telecommunications companies are vital to communication across the nation, making any disruption potentially widespread.
As the situation develops, both the public and the affected companies will be closely watching how the issues are addressed.
