Contextualizing Project Human Resources within Nigeria’s Public University System: a case study of Federal University of Technology, Minna

Abstract

Universities are incubators of skills, knowledge and ideas that trigger economic growth and stability. But this is dependent on the attitude of university staff (especially academic staff) towards their duties, a factor believed to be influenced by prevailing environmental factors. A range of factors that influence behaviour/performance of lecturers in federal universities in Nigeria were examined using survey questionnaire as an instrument. The analyses of respondents’ views reveal, contrary to a generally held notion, that the nature of technology available and lack of recognition considerably affect performance, perhaps, more than poor remuneration, while comfort and nature of relationships (vertical and lateral) are key factors that enhance staff performance at work. The study recommends activities aimed at strengthening management-staff relationship as well as periodic performance evaluation of staff. The outcome of this study would serve as a guide for enhancing the performance of public universities in Nigeria by creating a work environment that enhances performance.