Research article · 2026

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND EMPLOYEES’ PERFORMANCE IN DEPOSIT MONEY BANKS IN ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA: ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF POOR WORKING CONDITIONS

Arukwe, Maureen Chiegeonu, Ejike, Ifeyinwa Justina & Kolawole Olasoji Abraham

Abstract

Purpose: The research was carried out to examine the work environment and employees’ performance in deposit money banks in Enugu State by assessing the impact of poor working conditions. Environment is one of the factors that can influence employee productivity, especially in the banking sector where efficient service delivery and consistent performance are critical. The aim of this study is to analyse the effects of lack of adequate physical infrastructure, leadership practices and workload pressure on employee performance. These variables form three objectives and three hypotheses for the study.
Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopted quantitative descriptive survey design. A sample size of 237 was determined from the population of 617 using Cochran (1970) formula. Instrument for data collection was well-structured questionnaire. The copies of questionnaire distributed to employees of Deposit Money banks in Enugu metropolis were 237. A total of 205 copies were returned, representing an 86.5% return rate. The study used frequency counts, percentages, mean score, standard deviation and multiple regression for hypotheses testing.
Findings: The results indicate that inadequate physical infrastructure, leadership practices and workload pressure all significantly influence the productivity of employees, F (3,201) = 30.246, p < 0.05, accounting for 31.1% of the variance in productivity (R² = 0.311). The effects of the individual factors were also significant. Leadership practices had positive effect on employee productivity, and inadequate physical facilities and workload pressure negatively affect employees' productivity.
Implication: The study thus confirms that working conditions have a significant effect on employees' productivity. In that case, bank management needs to invest in workplace infrastructure, encourage supportive and effective leadership, and take care of workloads appropriately. These measures can foster a more productive work environment and minimize employee turnover.
Originality/Value: This study provides fresh, empirical insights into workspace optimization by isolating specific operational bottlenecks that directly hinder employee performance including functional workspace furniture, modern equipment and consistent energy sources. Management should streamline task distribution and conduct regular staffing reviews to ensure workload pressure remains manageable.
Keywords: Work Environment, Employees’ Performance, Poor Working Conditions, Deposit Money Banks, Enugu, Nigeria.
Paper Type: Empirical research

Keywords

Work Environment, Employees’ Performance, Poor Working Conditions, Deposit Money Banks, Enugu, Nigeria. Paper Type: Empirical research

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