STAFF TRAINING AND BUSINESS PERFORMANCE IN NIGERIA: A SURVEY OF SELECTED BANKS IN AFIKPO, EBONYI STATE

Abstract

The study was undertaken to examine the effect of staff training on business performance in Nigeria. First Bank of Nigeria Plc. and Zenith Bank Plc. Afikpo, were chosen for the study. The study sought to examine the effects of staff training on business performance in Nigeria and key challenges of staff training to business organizations. The study applied the Field Survey Research Design and the Human Capital Theory. The researchers studied the entire staff (population) of the banks which is seventy-three (73). This figure served also as the sample size since it could be managed. Researchers used interview guides and questionnaires to collect data. 69 respondents completed and returned the questionnaire, indicating a response rate of 95%. Data were analysed using Chi-Square Test at 5% level of significance. Findings revealed among others that staff training contributes significantly to employee performance, organizational efficiency and improved productivity with statistical values of 113.08, 89.20 and 104.5 respectively while high cost indicated a major barrier to staff training with statistical test value of 122.6. The study concluded that staff training improves employees’ competence and productivity, ensuring organizational success. The study recommended among others that organizations should establish dedicated budget for training programmes, making fund available for staff training at all times; organizations/banks should recruit, develop and deploy more training professionals to effectively transmit skills and knowledge to the trainees and for their overall management.