Effect of Employee Retention On Employee Performance Among Selected Local Government Councils in Northern Zone of Taraba State

This study investigates the effect of employee retention on employee performance among selected local government councils in the northern zone of Taraba State, Nigeria. The research specifically examines the roles of training, promotion, compensation, and communication as key factors influencing employee performance. A descriptive survey design was adopted. Stratified sampling technique and simple random sampling was used to select sample size of 400 respondents from the target population of 5650 respondents. Utilizing structured questionnaires as the primary data collection instrument. The validity and reliability of the instrument were rigorously assessed to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the data. The theoretical framework of the study consisted of Herzberg Two Factor Theory and Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. A sample of employees from various local government councils in the northern zone of Taraba State was selected to participate in the study. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). A 95% confidence level was adopted for all statistical tests. Multiple regression analysis was employed to determine the relationships between the independent variables (training, promotion, compensation, and communication) and the dependent variable (employee performance). The findings revealed that training and communication have a significant positive relationship with employee performance, indicating that investments in employee development and effective communication channels can enhance performance levels. Conversely, promotion and compensation were found to have an insignificant relationship with employee performance in the context of the local government councils studied. This suggests that factors such as career advancement opportunities and financial rewards may not be as influential on performance as previously assumed. The study concludes that while training and communication are critical to improving employee performance, local government councils in the northern zone of Taraba State may need to reevaluate their strategies concerning promotion and compensation to better align with performance objectives. Recommendations include enhancing training programs, fostering open communication, and revisiting promotion and compensation policies to create a more effective and motivated workforce.