IMPACT OF WORKPLACE DIVERSITY ON FIRM PERFORMANCE IN NESTLÉ NIGERIA, IN FCT ABUJA

This study examined the impact of workplace diversity on firm performance at Nestlé Nigeria, Abuja, with specific attention to demographic, cognitive, inclusive, and experimental diversity. The research adopted a quantitative descriptive survey design, with data collected from 136 employees using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and multiple regression analyses were employed to analyze the data. Findings revealed that demographic diversity had a statistically significant relationship with firm performance, though with a negative coefficient, suggesting that unmanaged demographic differences could hinder efficiency. Cognitive diversity showed a weak but positive influence, while inclusive and experimental diversity were not statistically significant despite employees perceiving them as beneficial for morale, teamwork, and customer satisfaction. The study concludes that workplace diversity is a potential strategic resource, consistent with the Resource-Based View, but its benefits are not automatic and require deliberate inclusion strategies, transparent leadership, and effective diversity management practices. The study recommends that Nestlé Nigeria adopt structured diversity initiatives that transform workforce differences into competitive advantage. Keywords: Workplace Diversity, Firm Performance, Demographic Diversity, Cognitive Diversity, Inclusive Diversity, Experimental Diversity.