The Effect of Industrial Relations Practices on Employee Welfare: A Case Study of the Oil and Gas Sector in Nigeria

Abstract Industrial relations play a crucial role in shaping employee welfare, particularly in labour-intensive industries such as the oil and gas sector. This study examines the effect of industrial relations practices on employee welfare in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys and interviews with employees, trade union representatives, and HR managers. The findings reveal that effective industrial relations—characterised by fair labour negotiations, collective bargaining, and strong union representation—significantly enhance employee welfare, leading to improved job satisfaction, workplace safety, and financial benefits. However, challenges such as poor policy implementation, labour disputes, and inadequate government enforcement hinder progress. The study highlights the need for stronger regulatory frameworks and better collaboration between stakeholders to improve welfare outcomes. Furthermore, the research contributes to existing literature by providing empirical evidence from Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, offering policy recommendations for enhancing industrial relations. Future studies should explore comparative analyses with other sectors and countries to develop broader insights into best practices.