The Nigerian industrial relations environment is not one that is envied by many, as it is filled with so many controversies, incessant disputes and strikes. This scenario has led many to call for an overhaul of the system, but before that is done, it will be most beneficial to seek the views of all stakeholders to ascertain the best path of action. In view of that, it becomes pertinent to seek the views of the different groups that constitute the work force, which is made up of 46% women and 54% men. The argument here is that the majority of women do not show interest in government and its policies, and this lack of interest may affect the way they view the government and its performance. To ascertain men and womens perception of how effective the process of managing industrial crises in Nigeria is, this paper used a time survey method to administer 507 questionnaires to both men and women. The data retrieved shows that 68% of females in the study do feel that the government is effective in its management of industrial disputes in Nigeria. This was in sharp contrast to 70% of the males in the study who feel that the government is grossly ineffective in its management of industrial disputes. This study therefore shows that the gender of an individual can affect the way the person perceives and evaluates issues. Womens position may have been influenced by gender roles assigned by society. It is recommended that parents should allow children to develop an interest in all subject matter, while women advocate groups should do so by encouraging women to take interest in matters pertaining to government, policies and trade unionism. Trade unions should regularly inform and educate their members.

Edo University Faculty of Arts Management and Social Sciences Department of Sociology Edo State Nigeria

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