Background of the Study
Leadership is a crucial determinant of organizational success, as it influences employee motivation, performance, and job satisfaction (Adebayo & Salisu, 2024). Various leadership styles—such as transformational, transactional, autocratic, and democratic—play different roles in shaping workplace culture and employee engagement. In the banking sector, where efficiency and service delivery are paramount, leadership effectiveness directly impacts employee productivity and overall organizational performance.
First Bank Nigeria Plc, as one of the oldest and largest financial institutions in Nigeria, operates in a competitive and dynamic banking environment. In Kano State, where banking services are essential to economic activities, leadership effectiveness can determine the bank’s ability to sustain high employee productivity (Obi & Adeola, 2023). However, there is limited empirical research on the extent to which different leadership styles influence productivity in the Nigerian banking sector.
This study aims to examine the relationship between leadership styles and employee productivity in First Bank Nigeria Plc, Kano State, to provide insights into how leadership effectiveness can drive workforce performance.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the critical role of leadership in organizational success, many financial institutions in Nigeria, including First Bank, face challenges related to low employee motivation, job dissatisfaction, and declining productivity (Nwachukwu & Hassan, 2024). Ineffective leadership styles can contribute to poor employee engagement, high turnover rates, and reduced service efficiency.
While existing literature has explored leadership in Nigerian banks, there is a gap in studies analyzing how specific leadership styles influence employee productivity within First Bank Nigeria Plc in Kano State. Understanding this relationship is essential for improving management strategies and workforce performance in the banking sector.
Objectives of the Study
1. To identify the dominant leadership styles practiced in First Bank Nigeria Plc, Kano State.
2. To assess the impact of different leadership styles on employee productivity.
3. To examine challenges associated with leadership effectiveness in First Bank Nigeria Plc.
Research Questions
1. What leadership styles are predominantly used in First Bank Nigeria Plc?
2. How do different leadership styles influence employee productivity?
3. What challenges affect leadership effectiveness in First Bank Nigeria Plc?
Research Hypotheses
1. Leadership style has a significant impact on employee productivity.
2. Transformational leadership positively influences employee engagement and performance.
3. Ineffective leadership styles contribute to low productivity in First Bank Nigeria Plc.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on leadership styles and their impact on employee productivity in First Bank Nigeria Plc, Kano State. Limitations include potential response bias from employees and restricted access to confidential leadership data.
Definitions of Terms
• Leadership Style: The approach a leader adopts in guiding and motivating employees.
• Employee Productivity: The efficiency and effectiveness of employees in performing job tasks.
• Transformational Leadership: A leadership style that inspires and motivates employees toward innovation and excellence.