Chris Okpoko
The World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Brief for October 2025, on Nigeria, revealed that more than half of all Nigerians (52.5 percent) are estimated to live in poverty in 2025, based on World Bank projections. According to the report, reforms aimed at boosting the livelihoods of Nigerians through more and better jobs, especially for the poor, combined with human capital investments, are key to creating opportunities to escape poverty.
Incessant industrial strikes in Nigeria have become a recurring issue, significantly impacting the nation’s socio-economic landscape. These strikes, often initiated by labor unions demanding better wages and improved working conditions, have caused widespread disruptions across various sectors, including education, health, and transportation.
The consequences of these strikes are far-reaching. Economically, they result in losses for both businesses and the government, as productivity declines and revenues decrease. For instance, prolonged strikes in the educational sector result in students missing out on essential learning time, which can have lasting effects on their academic trajectories and future job prospects.
Socially, these strikes create tension between employers and employees, leading to an atmosphere of distrust and dissatisfaction. In many cases, the public reacts with frustration as essential services are halted, further exacerbating the already precarious living conditions faced by many Nigerians.
The specter of poverty looms large over the lives of millions of citizens, with its roots intricately tied to economic instability, social unrest, and systemic inefficiencies. To effectively combat this persistent issue, the government needs to adopt multifaceted strategies that ensure sustainable economic growth while addressing the immediate concerns of workers and their rights. Among these strategies, placing an embargo on industrial strikes could serve as a critical move in stabilizing the economy and ultimately alleviating poverty.
At the heart of the argument for an embargo on industrial strikes lies the concept of economic stability and the need to sustain the momentum of the current gains of reforms.
In a nationwide Independence Day broadcast, the President said, “Under our leadership, our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results.” In this regard, statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics and the Central Bank of Nigeria showed that:
(i) Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23% in the second quarter 2025 —Nigeria’s fastest pace in four years—and outpaced the 3.4 per cent projected by the International Monetary Fund.
(ii) Inflation declined to 20.12% in August 2025, the lowest level in three years.
(iii) A record-breaking increase in non-oil revenue, achieving the 2025 target by August with over ₦20 trillion.
(iv) Nigeria’s trade surplus increased by 44.3 percent in the second quarter of 2025 to ₦7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion), the largest in about three years.
(v) External reserves increased to $42.03 billion this September—the highest since 2019.
Industrial actions, while often justified in the pursuit of fair wages, improved working conditions, or better benefits, have historically caused significant disruptions to economic activities, particularly in an already fragile economy like Nigeria’s. Frequent strikes not only lead to loss of productivity but also deter foreign investments and instigate inflationary pressures, thereby exacerbating poverty levels. By imposing an embargo, President Tinubu can foster an environment conducive to uninterrupted business operations, which is crucial for sustained economic growth.
The decision to restrict strikes does not imply a disregard for workers’ rights; rather, it necessitates a rethink of how labour disputes are resolved. Strikes often emerge from grievances that, if left unaddressed, can spiral out of control. Therefore, the government must create robust mechanisms for dialogue and negotiation between labour unions and employers. Establishing formal channels to address grievances without resorting to strikes could serve to balance the need for economic stability with the essential rights of workers.
Moreover, an embargo on industrial strikes could complement President Tinubu’s agenda for macroeconomic reform. The Nigerian economy stands at a crossroads, grappling with challenges, including high unemployment rates, inflation, and low productivity. Sustaining gains in macroeconomic reforms requires a stable industrial environment where policies aimed at stimulating growth can take root. Strikes disrupt this process, contributing to the unpredictability that investors fear. By curbing strikes, the government can create a more attractive investment climate, encouraging both local and foreign businesses to engage in Nigeria’s economy.
It is important to consider historical precedents when discussing the impact of strikes. For instance, during periods of significant strikes in Nigeria’s history, sectors such as education, healthcare, and transportation faced crippling setbacks. For the average Nigerian, this translates to lost wages, disrupted services, and a further entrenchment of poverty. The ripple effects of these strikes clarify the necessity for a proactive approach in addressing the underlying issues that lead to industrial actions.
To support the notion of an embargo, it is pertinent to explore alternative mechanisms for ensuring that worker rights are upheld without resorting to strikes. These may include fostering a culture of corporate social responsibility (CSR) among companies, incentivizing businesses to implement fair labour practices, and promoting welfare programs that empower workers. Furthermore, the government could establish independent labour courts equipped to handle disputes swiftly and fairly. By prioritizing these alternatives, Nigeria can not only mitigate the frequency of strikes but also uplift the living standards of its workforce.
While the idea of imposing an embargo on industrial strikes may initially seem authoritarian, it is critical to remember that effective governance involves difficult choices aimed at achieving the greater good. The right to strike is fundamental; however, it should not come at the expense of national stability and economic resilience. Thus, the government’s role should pivot towards creating a balanced framework where collective bargaining is encouraged but strike actions are considered a last resort.
In tandem with an embargo, President Tinubu’s administration could focus on implementing targeted poverty alleviation programs. These programs could encompass educational initiatives, vocational training, and subsidies for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that promise job creation. By fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, the government can empower citizens to take charge of their economic destinies, reducing reliance on industrial actions as a form of protest against hardships.
Another key element in the strategy to combat poverty through an embargo on strikes is the alignment of labour policies with national economic goals. Strikes often reflect broader societal discontent, fueled by perceptions of inequality and disenfranchisement. By addressing issues such as wage disparity and inadequate social safety nets, the government can reduce tensions that lead to strikes. Engaging stakeholders from various sectors (including workers, employers, and civil society) in discussions about equitable economic policies can help foster a sense of shared purpose and commitment to national development.
Ultimately, the fight against poverty in Nigeria requires a holistic approach that balances the need for economic stability with the imperative of social justice. An embargo on industrial strikes can be a powerful tool in this struggle, providing the necessary stability for macroeconomic reforms to flourish. However, the success of this strategy hinges on the government’s commitment to engaging in meaningful dialogue with labour unions, implementing fair labour practices, and prioritizing the welfare of its citizens.
In conclusion, placing an embargo on industrial strikes under President Tinubu’s leadership could catalyze a shift in Nigeria’s economic landscape, allowing for sustained macroeconomic reforms and poverty alleviation. While respecting the rights of workers remains paramount, it is crucial to recognize the broader implications that frequent industrial actions have on the economy and society as a whole. Only through thoughtful policies and engagement can Nigeria hope to emerge from the shadows of poverty and build a prosperous future for all its citizens.