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Recruitment, Training and Public Service Delivery in the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission

Grace John Mark, Samuel B. Kalagbor, Ph.D

Abstract

This study examined recruitment, training, and public service delivery in the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission from 2014–2024. The study specifically investigated the effect of recruitment and selection processes on public service delivery and assessed the influence of training and development on administrative efficiency and service delivery. Institutional Theory served as the theoretical framework, emphasizing the influence of social, cultural, and regulatory pressures on organizational practices. A survey research design was adopted, while data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 400 respondents selected from Obio-Akpor, Khana, and Ahoada East Local Government Areas using purposive sampling techniques. Out of the 400 questionnaires distributed, 390 were retrieved, representing a 97.5% response rate. The instrument was validated by experts and tested for reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha, which yielded a coefficient of 0.884. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and content analysis with SPSS version 27. Findings revealed that recruitment and selection processes lacked fairness, transparency, and merit-based standards, which negatively affected employee competence, productivity, and service delivery. The study also found that training and development programmes were moderately effective due to low participation, inadequate resources, and weak relevance to employees’ duties. The study concluded that effective recruitment and improved training programmes are essential for enhancing administrative efficiency and public service delivery in the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission. The study recommended transparent merit-based recruitment practices and increased investment in staff training and development programmes.

Keywords

RecruitmentTrainingPublic Service DeliveryHuman Resource ManagementLocal Government.

References

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