EFFECT OF SOCIAL CAPITAL ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE AT DANGOTE CEMENT COMPANY PLC, GBOKO, BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the effect of social capital on employee performance at Dangote Cement Company Plc, Gboko, Benue State. Specifically, it investigates the effect of structural capital, relational capital, and cognitive capital on employee performance at Dangote Cement Company Plc, Gboko, Benue State. A survey research design was adopted, with data collected from 217 employees using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that all three dimensions of social capital significantly influence employee performance. Relational capital exhibited the strongest effect (β = 0.536, p = 0.000), highlighting the importance of interpersonal relationships and trust in enhancing employee performance. Structural capital also had a significant positive impact (β = 0.309, p = 0.001), indicating that well-established organizational frameworks and communication systems contribute to employee performance. Cognitive capital, while statistically significant, had the weakest effect (β = 0.094, p = 0.005), suggesting that employees’ knowledge and intellectual capabilities play a role but are less influential than relational and structural factors. The study concludes that fostering strong workplace relationships, enhancing organizational structures, and promoting continuous learning are crucial for improving employee performance. Based on the findings, the study recommends strategic investment in social capital development to optimize workforce efficiency.