Unraveling the Link between Public Service Motivation and Job Performance: An Empirical Investigation in the Nigerian Public Service

Given the endemic challenges of low productivity, corruption and weak service delivery facing public sector organizations in Nigeria, investigating drivers of performance is crucial for improving governmental effectiveness. This study explores the impact of Public Service Motivation (PSM) on the job performance of Nigerian federal civil servants, with job satisfaction and Person-Organization Fit (POF) as mediators. Using a questionnaire and data analysis with PLS-SEM, the study finds that PSM has a significant effect on job performance, partially mediated by job satisfaction and POF. The study also reveals that high levels of PSM and POF are necessary conditions for high job performance among public servants in Nigeria. The findings highlight the importance of increasing public servants’ PSM levels and promoting better alignment with their organizations to enhance job satisfaction, motivation, and performance.