Local Government Staff Perception Of Motivation At Work And Its Effects On Their Morale Towards Tasks In Central Local Government Area, Edo State

Abstract

This study examined local government staff perception of motivation at work and its effects on their morale towards tasks using Esan Central Local Government Area, Edo State. The research used a descriptive survey design. The population comprised all 532 local government staff from different ministries and departments in Esan Central Local Government Area. The study used a purposive sampling technique to select 8 Mministries and Ddepartments, and simple random sampling to select a sample of 220 local government staff from the selected units. A structured questionnaire titled "Local Government Staff Motivation and Morale (LGSMM)" was used for data collection. Experts in Educational Management and Foundations validated the instrument, and its reliability was established using the Cronbach Alpha method, yielding a reliability index of 0.84. Data were analysed using mean, standard deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC), and t-test statistics at 0.05 significance level. Findings showed that local government staff perceived their motivation levels as moderate and exhibited moderately positive morale. A significant positive relationship existed between motivation and morale. Work motivation contributed to task performance in areas such as administrative duties, customer service, record keeping, and community engagement. Major issues leading to low work morale included poor pay, unfavourable working conditions, heavy workload, and lack of opportunities. The study concluded that staff morale greatly influences staff effectiveness in performing organisational tasks. Recommendations included improved compensation, better working conditions, and greater opportunities for professional development.