EMPLOYEES PARTICIPATION IN DECISION MAKING AND ORGANIZATIONAL PRODUCTIVITY: A STUDY OF OGOJA LOCAL GOVERNMENT (2016-2022)

ABSTRACT This study examined the relationship between employees’ participation in decision making and organizational productivity in Ogoja Local Government between 2016 and 2022. The study was motivated by persistent concerns about low staff morale, inefficiency, and reduced service delivery in local government administration. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised administrative and departmental staff of Ogoja Local Government Council. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using mean scores and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that employee involvement in planning, policy formulation, and operational decisions significantly improved job satisfaction, commitment, and productivity. However, limited consultation, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and centralized leadership structures reduced effective participation. The study concluded that participatory management enhances organizational productivity and recommended institutionalizing inclusive decision-making structures, regular staff consultations, and leadership training programs.