State - Labour Relations under SAP in Nigeria

Abstract

This study explores the intricate dynamics of state-labour relations in Nigeria within the context of the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP). Implemented in the late 1980s, SAP aimed to address economic challenges through market-oriented reforms. However, its impact on the relationship between the state and labour has been a subject of considerable scholarly debate. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from political science, economics, and industrial relations, to analyze the evolving nature of state-labour interactions during the SAP era. Drawing on historical data, policy documents, and interviews with key stakeholders, the study investigates the factors that influenced the negotiation, implementation, and consequences of SAP-related labour policies. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by SAP for workers and the broader socio-economic landscape in Nigeria. Moreover, the study sheds light on the broader implications for state-labour relations in the context of economic restructuring policies in developing countries, offering insights that extend beyond the Nigerian experience.