Striking a Balance

Industrial actions have been a recurring theme in Nigeria’s labour landscape. From the pivotal 1945 general strike to the recent June 3, 2024 strike by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), strikes have been a potent tool for workers to fight for better wages and working conditions. The NLC has been at the forefront of these actions, advocating for workers’ rights and social justice. While strikes are vital for workers to negotiate better terms, frequent strikes can pose considerable risks to the nation’s development.

The 1945 strike, involving an estimated 200,000 workers, is a prime example of how strikes can catalyse positive change. The strike, which lasted for 44 days, highlighted the collective power of Nigerian workers and set a precedent for future labour movements. However, subsequent strikes have not always been so clear-cut. The 1988 strike wave, for instance, highlighted the tense relationship between workers and military governments. The return to civilian rule in 1999 did not quell labour unrest. Instead, democratic governance provided a more conducive environment for unions to organise and strike. More recently, the June 2023 NLC strike called to protest the government’s removal of fuel subsidies. The removal led to a significant increase in fuel prices, which caused widespread discontent due to the resultant rise in the cost of living. Though brief, the most recent industrial action commenced on June 3, 2024, had a significant impact. It paralysed various sectors, including transportation, healthcare, power and education, and underscored the fragility of Nigeria’s economic stability.

While industrial actions are necessary to check government and employer excesses, incessant strikes pose several dangers to Nigeria’s development. Strikes lead to significant economic disruption by halting productivity in critical sectors like healthcare and transportation, diminishing confidence in the system. In a nation striving for development, such disruptions can be crippling. Businesses lose revenue and economic growth stalls. Prolonged strikes can also cause social unrest, with protests and violent clashes creating an atmosphere of tension and insecurity. Essential services such as healthcare and education suffer, leading to delays in medical services and interruptions in academic calendars, which have long-term negative impacts on society. Additionally, the perception of instability caused by frequent strikes deters foreign investment, making Nigeria a less attractive destination for investors.

To mitigate the negative impacts of industrial actions, the Nigerian government must adopt proactive measures addressing the root causes of labour disputes. Establishing a continuous and effective dialogue between the government, employers, and labour unions can help pre-empt strikes by facilitating regular discussions and negotiations to resolve grievances amicably. Comprehensive policy reforms that improve working conditions, wages, and economic policies are crucial in reducing the frequency of industrial actions. The government should respond swiftly to labour union demands to prevent delays exacerbating tensions. Independent mediation and arbitration bodies can provide impartial solutions acceptable to both parties, decreasing the likelihood of strikes.

Industrial actions are a double-edged sword. They have played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s labour landscape, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of the working class. However, the recurrent nature of these strikes highlights systemic issues that need urgent attention. The recent NLC strike underscores the importance of proactively addressing these challenges. For Nigeria to achieve sustainable development, the government must prioritise effective labour relations, implement robust economic policies, and ensure continuous dialogue with all stakeholders. By doing so, the nation can prevent the escalation of disputes to industrial actions and foster a more stable and prosperous future.