SUSTAINABLE WAGE DETERMINATION AND TRADE- DISPUTE PREVENTION IN NIGERIA’S HEALTH SECTOR: EVIDENCE FROM SOUTHEAST TEACHING HOSPITALS

Abstract

Persistent trade disputes in Nigeria’s health sector, particularly among teachinghospitals, have raised concerns over the sustainability of wage determination processes and theirimpact on industrial harmony. This study examined stakeholders’ perceptions of the strategicmeasures necessary to promote a more sustainable wage system and mitigate wage-relatedconflicts. Theories of conflict and industrial relations guided the study. Employing a descriptiveapproach, quantitative data were collected from 625 respondents through structuredquestionnaires, while qualitative insights were derived from 10 key informant interviews withhealth administrators, union leaders, and policymakers. Multi-stage and purposive sample methodswere utilized. Quantitative data were analysed using the weighted mean, whereas qualitative datawere content analysed. The findings revealed strong consensus on the importance of labour–government cooperation, institutionalization of collective bargaining, respect for the rule of law,and establishment of independent wage review mechanisms. All proposed measures recorded lowweighted mean scores, indicating a high level of agreement on their significance. Qualitative datafurther emphasized the need for proactive engagement, legal compliance, and systemic reforms.The findings underscore the need for a collaborative, law-based, and inclusive framework as afoundation for sustainable wage governance and lasting industrial harmony in Nigeria’s healthcaresector. The study recommends enhancing dialogue mechanisms, ensuring strict adherence tolabour regulations and fostering institutional autonomy as key strategies for establishing a fair andenduring wage determination system. These strategies will help to promote a more equitable andsustainable wage environment.