Title: Diversity and Communication in the Nigerian Federal Civil Service
Authors: Samam Grace Abiye
Volume: 9
Issue: 1
Pages: 106-111
Publication Date: 2025/01/28
Abstract:
Workforce diversity is the differences, such as in age, gender, ethnic heritage, physical ability/disability, race, and sexual orientation that make up the employees of an organization. Nigeria is a multinational state inhabited by more than 250 ethnic groups speaking 500 distinct languages, all identifying with a wide variety of cultures. Despite the cultural richness and diversity of Nigeria, the civil service often struggle to embrace and harness the full potential of their workforce. Against this backdrop, there is a growing recognition of the need to prioritize diversity and open communication within Nigerian federal civil service. The study aimed to investigate if there is a high level of affection in the Nigerian federal civil service that deals with multicultural diversity employees and examine if there is a good interest from managers and decision-makers to deal with cultural diversity. The survey research design was adopted in this study, which involves the distribution of questionnaires, following the principles of quantitative research and empiricism. The population consists of staff of the federal ministry of information, Rivers state chapter. The study is based on a sample size of 120 respondents, and adopts the systematic random sampling technique. Descriptive statistical tools such as frequency, mean score, standard deviation and rank were used to analyze the acquired data. Results revealed that the management of the federal civil service does not demonstrates a commitment to meeting the needs of employees with disabilities as it obtains the lowest rank with mean of 3.52. Additionally, a significant proportion of the participants (76.7%) identified problem of digital divide as the major challenge hindering ICT initiatives for public service delivery in the Nigerian federal civil service. The study concluded that by recognizing the importance of diversity and inclusion, addressing systemic barriers, and implementing effective strategies, the Nigerian federal civil service can create inclusive work environments that foster innovation, engagement, and organizational success. Furthermore, ICTs usage in the Nigerian federal civil service remains a key factor in enhancing public service delivery in the country.