***Management Addresses Monday’s Picket by HOPSSSA/TUC
ABUJA – The Management of Abuja Continental Hotel says it has taken note of the picketing action commenced today, Monday, by members of the Hotel and Personal Services Senior Staff Association (HOPSSSA), an affiliate of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).
A statement by the Management notes that “While we respect the fundamental right of workers to freedom of association and to express legitimate concerns, we categorically reject the allegations of unfair labour practices and the assertion that Management has prevented or attempted to prevent employees from exercising their right to associate.
Abuja Continental Hotel is not opposed to the right of workers to associate freely. We know that this right is guaranteed under Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and Management fully respects it.
“Equally important is the principle that freedom of association includes the freedom not to associate. No employee should be compelled, coerced, intimidated, or unduly influenced to join or belong to any association or trade union. The decision to join or not to join a union must be voluntary and freely made by the individual employee in line with the labor law. The decision by some employees not to unionise at this time is a matter of their individual choice.
“Employees have expressed satisfaction with the existing welfare structures, open-door communication channels, improved employment conditions and general staff welfare, timely payment of salaries and benefits, better access to training, and career development opportunities.
ON WORKING CONDITIONS AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
The allegation that Management has “rebuffed efforts to meet” is inaccurate.
Abuja Continental Hotel operates an open-door policy and maintains established channels through which employees can raise concerns, seek clarification, and have workplace issues addressed. The Hotel also has relevant internal committees and grievance-resolution mechanisms designed to facilitate constructive employee engagement.
Over the years, Management has continued to review and enhance employee welfare and working conditions, including investments in HMO coverage, training and development, career progression, and other employee-focused initiatives. We remain willing to engage constructively with legitimate stakeholders in a peaceful, respectful, and lawful manner on matters affecting our employees. However, industrial action that disrupts guest services, obstructs access to the Hotel, or interferes with employees who wish to perform their duties does not serve the interests of workers, guests, Management, or the wider hospitality industry.
ON MOMDAY’S PICKETING ACTION
While Management recognises the right to peaceful protest, we are concerned by the forceful blockade of the Hotel’s access points, which has inconvenienced guests, employees, business partners, and other stakeholders. Management is working with the relevant security and regulatory authorities to safeguard lives and property, maintain public order, and ensure that access to the Hotel is managed in accordance with applicable laws.
Despite the disruption to business, Abuja Continental Hotel remains open and continues to provide services to its guests.
OUR RESOLVE
Abuja Continental Hotel deeply values its workforce. Our ongoing transformation and ambition to position the Hotel as Nigeria’s premier luxury and MICE destination can only be achieved through the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of our employees. We therefore reiterate unequivocally that Management is not opposed to workers’ freedom of association; we are opposed to coercion, intimidation, and the infringement of any employee’s freedom to make an independent choice.
We firmly believe that constructive dialogue, mutual respect, and good-faith engagement, not disruption remain the most effective means of resolving differences and advancing the interests of all stakeholders.
Abuja Continental Hotel remains committed to providing a safe, fair, inclusive, respectful, and rewarding workplace where every employee’s rights are respected and their contributions are valued.
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