Abuja Continental Hotel reaffirms commitment to dialogue, says court order guides union engagement
By Niyi Agoro Cluster, Director of Human Resources, Continental Hotels
The Management of Abuja Continental Hotel has reaffirmed its commitment to workers’ welfare, freedom of association and dialogue, insisting that all engagements with labour unions must respect a subsisting court order.
In a statement addressing media reports attributed to the Trade Union Congress (TUC) concerning a meeting scheduled for October 12, the hotel said it remained committed to maintaining peaceful and productive relations with its workforce.
The Director of Human Resources, Niyi Agoro Cluster, said workers’ welfare, safety, dignity and professional development remained central to the hotel’s operations.
He described claims that the hotel was anti-labour as incorrect, stressing that the management had no policy prohibiting employees from exercising their constitutional right to freedom of association.
Cluster also stated that the hotel had not victimised any employee on account of union affiliation, adding that it continued to invest in staff welfare, training and professional development.
He explained that following the disruption of business activities on August 24, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and the Minister of Labour and Employment intervened and encouraged dialogue, leading to an agreement on a date for engagement.
However, he said the matter subsequently became the subject of proceedings before the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.
According to him, Paragraph 3 of the court’s enrolled order directs all parties to maintain peace and refrain from taking steps that could jeopardise the case.
He added that the order had been served on the relevant parties, noting that the hotel would not take any action that could prejudice the judicial process or amount to contempt of court.
Cluster said the hotel preferred that further engagements take place through the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) channels provided by the court, expressing concern that meetings outside the court’s framework could undermine the ongoing proceedings.
He disclosed that the management had formally communicated its position, alongside copies of the court order, to the Minister of Labour and Employment, relevant security agencies and the TUC leadership.
The human resources director stressed that the hotel had not abandoned dialogue and remained ready to participate fully in any process directed by the court.
He also assured guests, clients, corporate partners and the general public that Abuja Continental Hotel remained safe, secure and fully operational, with normal business activities continuing uninterrupted.
Cluster said the hotel was working with relevant security agencies to protect its workers and guests while ensuring the continued delivery of quality hospitality services.
He reiterated the management’s commitment to industrial peace, respect for the rule of law and constructive engagement with its workforce.
