Background of the Study
Market unions in Onitsha South Local Government Area have long played a central role in protecting and advancing the interests of traders. These unions are instrumental in negotiating better prices, securing credit facilities, and mediating disputes within a highly competitive trading environment (Eze, 2023). Recently, increasing market volatility and economic uncertainties have underscored the need for effective union intervention to safeguard traders’ welfare. Various studies suggest that union activities not only stabilize market conditions but also enhance traders’ bargaining power, leading to improved economic outcomes (Chukwu, 2024). In addition, the unions foster a sense of solidarity among traders, facilitating information sharing and collaborative problem-solving. However, challenges such as bureaucratic inefficiencies and limited resource mobilization persist, which may undermine their effectiveness (Adebayo, 2025). This study examines the influence of market unions on the welfare of traders, focusing on financial, social, and operational dimensions, thereby providing a comprehensive insight into union-driven economic empowerment. Such an evaluation is vital for policymakers and union leaders to identify gaps and enhance union strategies.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the critical role market unions play in Onitsha South, traders continue to face economic hardships and market uncertainties. There is a dearth of systematic research on how union activities translate into tangible welfare improvements for traders. Challenges such as inefficient administration, limited access to capital, and internal conflicts further complicate the unions’ effectiveness (Ibrahim, 2024). Consequently, traders’ welfare remains vulnerable to market fluctuations. This study seeks to bridge the gap by investigating the direct impact of union activities on traders’ economic well-being and identifying key areas for operational enhancement.
Objectives of the Study:
• To assess the overall impact of market unions on traders’ financial and social welfare.
• To identify challenges within union operations affecting trader support.
• To propose strategies for enhancing the efficacy of market unions.
Research Questions:
• How do market unions influence traders’ financial stability in Onitsha South?
• What challenges hinder effective union support for traders?
• What measures can be implemented to improve union-driven welfare initiatives?
Research Hypotheses:
• H1: Active market union involvement significantly enhances traders’ financial stability.
• H2: Operational inefficiencies within unions negatively impact trader welfare.
• H3: Strategic reforms in union administration lead to improved support for traders.
Significance of the Study
This study is pivotal for understanding the role of market unions in promoting traders’ welfare. It offers empirical insights that can guide union reforms and policy decisions, ensuring better economic outcomes for traders. The findings aim to assist stakeholders in addressing administrative challenges and optimizing union support mechanisms, thereby contributing to enhanced market stability and trader empowerment (Olusola, 2023; Musa, 2025). The study’s outcomes foster sustainable trade growth and improved welfare.
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is confined to examining the impact of market unions on traders’ welfare in Onitsha South Local Government Area, Anambra State. It focuses on union operations, financial impacts, and social support without extending to external market forces. Data are drawn solely from sources directly pertinent to union activities and trader experiences in the specified locale.
Definitions of Terms:
• Market Unions: Organizations representing the interests of traders within a market.
• Traders’ Welfare: The overall economic, social, and operational well-being of market traders.
• Economic Impact: The measurable effect of union activities on traders’ financial conditions.
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