LABOUR MARKET PARTICIPATION AND EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS IN THE SOUTH-EAST OF NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined labour market participation and conditions of employment in South-East Nigeria, focusing on economically active persons, employees, employers, and labour officials across major economic hubs including Onitsha, Aba, Nnewi, and Enugu. The objectives were to assess the level and patterns of labour market participation, evaluate prevailing conditions of employment, and determine the relationship between labour market participation and employment conditions in the region. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from a sample of 220 respondents using a closed-ended structured questionnaire measured on a four-point Likert scale (Strongly Agree, Agree, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree). Mean scores and standard deviations were used to analyse responses, while hypotheses were tested using Multivariate Analysis of Covariance (MANCOVA). The findings indicated a relatively high level of labour market participation, with respondents reporting active engagement in economic activities (mean = 2.90, SD = 0.96) and a predominance of informal employment (mean = 2.98, SD = 0.97). However, conditions of employment were largely unfavourable, as reflected in low job security (mean = 2.32, SD = 1.07), inadequate income (mean = 2.41, SD = 1.05), and weak enforcement of labour laws (mean = 2.31, SD = 1.08). The MANCOVA results revealed statistically significant differences in employment conditions across levels of labour market participation (Wilks’ Lambda = 0.664, F = 8.941, p < 0.05). The study therefore concluded that although labour market participation in South-East Nigeria is high, it is largely necessity-driven and constrained by poor employment quality. The study recommends strengthening regulatory enforcement, improving wages and employment benefits, promoting skills development, and implementing policies that ensure not only access to employment but also improved working conditions in the region.