ABSTRACT
Workers everywhere can learn a lot from Karl Marx’s key notion, the alienation of labor. This abstract delves into the significance of Marx’s concept of “labor alienation” and what it means for workers in Nigeria. According to Marx, employees under capitalism become emotionally and intellectually detached from their work, their creations, and the very process of production itself. Workers are dehumanized and reduced to simple commodities in capitalist forms of production, which fuels widespread feelings of alienation. Due to Nigeria’s one-of-a-kind socioeconomic setting, the effects of labor alienation on the country’s workforce are of particular importance. Despite Nigeria’s substantial working-class population, the country’s labor force suffers several difficulties, such as low wages, unsafe working conditions, and uncertain employment prospects. The negative impacts of estrangement on workers’ health and happiness are exacerbated by these circumstances. Workers in Nigeria’s industries, agriculture, and informal marketplaces all show signs of disconnection from the goods they produce. Their access to basic labor rights is restricted, they are frequently exploited by middlemen, and they have little say over their work procedures. This not only keeps inequality alive, but it also stunts the country’s economic and social progress. In addition to economic exploitation, other forms of alienation of labor exist in Nigeria. Workers’ mental and emotional health suffers when their sense of self is shattered and their opportunities for growth are limited. Full-scale changes are needed to reduce worker alienation in Nigeria. It calls for the creation and implementation of labor laws that protect employees from exploitation and guarantee them a living wage and a secure workplace free from harm. Workers can have the confidence to stand up to the oppressive status quo and push for change if their education is supported, unions are formed, and a culture of solidarity is fostered. The widespread effects of labor alienation in Nigeria exacerbate economic disparity, slow social progress, and limit employees’ opportunities for happiness and fulfillment. Nigerian workers can fight toward a more equitable and empowering working environment by addressing the core causes of labor alienation and advocating for transformative changes.
