Examining The Role Of Employee Participation In Decision-Making Processes on Employees' Performance in Nigerian Manufacturing Sector

Abstract

This study examined the effect of employee participation in decision making on employees’ performance in the Nigerian manufacturing sector. One research hypothesis was formulated in line with the study objectives. A survey research approach was adopted using structured questionnaires administered to employees of manufacturing firms in Lagos, Nigeria, specifically Vitafoam PLC, Rite Foods Ltd, and Olam Nigeria. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed, of which 283 were retrieved and 279 found usable, forming the basis of the analysis. Face and construct validity of the instrument were established through evaluations conducted by independent experts in human resource management and organisational behaviour. Reliability was tested using the test–retest method on a pilot group of 35 employees from two water processing plants, with results showing positive correlations (α = 0.73 for employee participation and α = 0.81 for employee performance). The findings revealed that employee participation in decision making significantly affects employees’ performance in the Nigerian manufacturing sector. The study therefore concludes that employee participation in decision making is an important driver of employee performance and recommends that manufacturing firms in Nigeria should encourage staff involvement in decision making to enhance overall employee performance.