Abstract
This study argues that, based on the Nigerian experience, there is a connection between IMF-type
programmes and instability in some of the countries that adopted them. Structural supply- oriented
policies such as reducing the size of the public sector and the removal of state resources from that
sector to the private sector (privatization), creating financial intermediaries, promotion of savings, and
discouragement of wasteful spending by increasing real interest rates all help to reduce the welfare of
workers. Reactions of industrial workers to this deficiency, disappointment, and irritation are however
smothered by the compulsion and suppression of state agencies.
Key word: IMF, Industrial Relations dimension, instability, post –independent Nigeria.
