Conflict Management Strategies and Employee Performance in the Nigerian Public Sector: An Empirical Study of Ondo State Water Corporation

Abstract

This study evaluated the influence of conflict management on employees’ performance of Ondo state water corporation in Ondo state Water Corporation. Conflict is anticipated where people of different characters, attitudes, opinions, perceptions coexist. Employees in any organization, particularly in Ondo State Water Corporation are the brain behind the success of the nation as well as the anchor to find its bearing in the dynamic world. The study employed survey research design in order to utilize a structured questionnaire in the collection of data for analysis. The sample size for the study was one hundred and seventy two (172). The hypothesis was tested and analyzed using a simple linear regression analysis model applying a statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 26. The study found that there are positive effects of conflict avoidance strategy on employees’ performance of the Ondo state Water Corporation. There is a significant effect of conflict collaboration strategy on employees’ commitment to goals achievement. There is a significant relationship between conflict accommodation strategy and employees’ motivation. There is also a significant conflict mediation strategy on employees’ involvement in the Ondo state Water Corporation. Based on the findings, the study recommended that management of organizations or institutions should monitor and intervene on issues that can lead to conflicts in order to enhance employees’ performance by adopting avoidance strategies. To increase employee commitment, management should use a win-win approach to dispute resolution or a collaborative plan. In order to prevent the things that can deter employees' desire and dedication to achieving their goals, management should also resolve disputed situations as quickly as feasible. A mediator should be used by management to continuously resolve disputes.