News
We are working like Slaves in our Own Country, Say Telecoms Workers, Declared indefinite strike
The Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria has declared an indefinite strike effective midnight on Thursday, April 4, 2024.
The union said the decision was deemed necessary due to the relentless anti-labour practices against field engineers perpetrated by subcontractors.
The telecoms union disclosed this in a statement sent to newsmen on Tuesday.
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.
The union stated, “These workers are working like slaves in their own country with no entitlements commensurate with their efforts paid to them.
“They are made to work without work hours and risk their lives going to the field in the wee hours of the night without adequate security provided for them.”
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.
Furthermore, PTECSSAN 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.
Furthermore, the union revealed that despite efforts by the Ministry of Labour and Employment to address the concerns through conciliatory meetings, the companies have failed to engage constructively, leaving no option but to resort to industrial action.
“All efforts by the union and the Ministry of Labour and Employment to resolve the union’s and its members’ concerns proved abortive as the companies failed to make themselves available for conciliatory meetings.
“In light of this, the union’s leadership directed its members to commence an indefinite strike action effective April 4, 2024.
“We implore Nigerians to bear with us during the period of the strike action and any attendant discomfort it may bring to them,” the union noted.
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By Gloria Ikibah
As part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the House of Representatives is set to lead a historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024, in a bold effort to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.
The march, which begins at 8:00 AM, will see over 1,000 participants, including lawmakers and members of the public walk from the National Assembly to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The event will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action against GBV and greater protection for vulnerable groups.
Speaking about the initiative, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD., GCON, said, “This march and the activities that follow are not mere gestures but a reflection of our determination to confront gender-based violence head-on. We are committed to building a society where justice, equality, and safety prevail for all Nigerians.”
In a statement by the House Spokesperson, Rep. Akin Rotimi on Saturday in Abuja, he said, “The 10th House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to systemic reforms, collaboration, and accountability in the fight against gender-based violence.
“In addition to the march, the House has outlined key activities in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023–2027) to sustain awareness and action throughout the campaign period.
“Sash Demonstration Ceremony – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
“Convergence of State Assembly Speakers – Monday, December 9, 2024. A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative measures for combating GBV nationwide.
“National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 – Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The summit will focus on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives led by the House of Representatives”.
Naijablitznews.com reports that this year’s 16 Days of Activism aims to galvanise nationwide efforts and inspire collective action to protect human rights, ensure justice, and create a safer, more equitable Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).
President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.
The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.
He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.
The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.
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