IMPACT OF INDUSTRIAL CONFLICT ON WORKERS’ PRODUCTIVITY IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR: A STUDY OF BAUCHI FURNITURE COMPANY
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the impact of industrial conflict on workers’ productivity in the manufacturing sector, using Bauchi Furniture Company as a case study. The research specifically focused on three major forms of industrial conflict: strikes, work stoppages, and labor disputes. The study aimed to examine how each of these conflict types influences worker output and overall organizational productivity. A structured questionnaire was distributed to 108 employees of the company, out of which 94 were completed and returned validly, forming the basis for analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed using SPSS version 26. Multiple regression analysis was used to test the study’s hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that strikes significantly reduce workers’ productivity (R² = 0.359, β = -0.488, p < 0.05). Work stoppages were also found to negatively affect productivity (R² = 0.386, β = -0.512, p < 0.05). Moreover, labor disputes demonstrated a strong negative impact on productivity (R² = 0.413, β = -0.544, p < 0.05). Based on these results, all null hypotheses were rejected, confirming that industrial conflict significantly hampers productivity in the studied organization. The study concludes that industrial conflict, if not addressed promptly and effectively, undermines the efficiency and performance of manufacturing firms. It recommends proactive dialogue between management and labor unions, timely resolution of grievances, and investment in industrial peace strategies. Limitations include the focus on a single company, which may affect generalizability. Future research should consider comparative studies across multiple firms and sectors. The study provides useful insights for policy makers, organizational leaders, and labor unions on the urgent need to minimize industrial conflict for improved productivity in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.
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