An Investigation into Human Resource Management (HRM) Practices as a Means of Enhancing Employees’ Commitment in Selected Nigerian Manufacturing Companies

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between Human Resource Management practices and employee commitment in selected manufacturing companies in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined the effects of recruitment, compensation, and performance appraisal on employee commitment. The study was motivated by the need to provide empirical evidence on how effective HRM practices can enhance employee commitment within the Nigerian manufacturing sector. The study adopted a quantitative research method and utilised primary data collected from employees of selected manufacturing companies in Ibadan, Oyo State. A total of 273 questionnaires were administered, out of which 244 were properly completed and retrieved for analysis. The data collected were analysed using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation. The study focused on employee commitment as the dependent variable, while recruitment, compensation, and performance appraisal constituted the major dimensions of HRM practices examined. The findings revealed that all the examined HRM practices had strong and positive significant relationships with employee commitment. Recruitment had a significant positive correlation with employee commitment (r = 0.970, p < 0.05), compensation (r = 0.951, p < 0.05), and performance appraisal (r = 0.945, p < 0.05). The study concluded that effective Human Resource Management practices significantly enhance employee commitment in selected manufacturing companies in Ibadan, Oyo State. Based on the findings, the study recommended that manufacturing companies should regularly review and improve their existing HRM practices and introduce innovative practices that respond to employees’ needs and organisational objectives. It further recommended that organisations should periodically assess employees’ satisfaction with existing HRM practices and involve line managers in the design and modification of HRM policies and practices. These measures are expected to strengthen employee commitment, improve productivity, and contribute to the achievement of organisational goals.