Trade Unions and Informal Power Dynamics: Exploring Tout Operations in Nigeria's Metropolitan Transport System

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the intersection of trade unions and informal tout operations in the transport systems of 5 metropolitan cities in Nigeria. It explores the dynamics of power, control, and influence within the transport sector, highlighting how trade unions interact with informal actors and the implications for urban mobility and governance. Design/Methodology/Approach: The research employs a qualitative methodology, incorporating in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis. Key stakeholders, including union leaders, transport operators, and touts, were interviewed across multiple metropolitan areas in Nigeria. The study also draws on policy documents and secondary data to contextualise the findings within broader socio-political frameworks. Anticipated Findings: The study anticipates uncovering a complex relationship between trade unions and touts, where both formal and informal structures coexist and occasionally conflict. It is expected that trade unions rely on touts to enforce rules, maintain order, and generate revenue, while touts operate as informal power brokers. This relationship, while functional in some contexts, contributes to inefficiencies, conflicts, and corruption within the transport system. Practical Implications: The findings will provide valuable insights for policymakers, transport regulators, and urban planners in Nigeria. Understanding the interactions between formal and informal actors can inform strategies to improve governance in the transport sector, reduce exploitation, and enhance service delivery. The study also offers practical recommendations for harmonising the roles of trade unions and informal operators to create a more efficient and equitable system. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature on urban transport governance by shedding light on the underexplored relationship between trade unions and informal tout operations in Nigeria. It provides a unique perspective on how informal practices shape formal systems in a developing country context, offering new insights into urban mobility challenges in the Global South.