Performance appraisal in the Nigerian context: Challenges and prospects for nation building

Abstract

The Nigerian work sector is saddled with a lot of challenges which cut across the various processes of recruitment, placement and subsequently appraisal. These challenges have led to counter-productivity in the work sector and especially work in the public sector. Performance appraisal has become one of the most trending issues in personnel psychology and other management sciences. Therefore, in this paper, we offer a full exploration of the concept with reference to the Nigerian society. We also explored the criticisms, merits, demerits and problems associated with its practice in Nigeria. It was observed through the review of literature, that in most public organisations, performance appraisal is filled with malpractices. This, therefore, leaves so many questions as to the future of public work sector in Nigeria. The paper sees performance appraisal feedback as one of the ways to make employees aware of their roles and performance. It is posited that employees who know what and how much is expected of them are likely to be more effective than those who are unclear about their roles. The conclusion is that performance appraisal is necessary for the growth of an organisation and consequently, that of any nation; and should be held in esteem and managed properly, devoid of corruption.