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2nd marker Comments:
Evaluation of research
philosophies and perspectives.
Justification of methodological
approach, sampling strategy,
data analysis and reliability and
validity measures as applicable
15%
nd
2 marker Comments:
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Data Analysis and Supervisor Comments:
Interpretation
35%
2nd marker Comments:
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2nd marker Comments:
5%
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First Marker Total
Total
100%
Second Marker Total
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Supervisor’s Name: ……………………………………….. Signature:
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A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION PROCESS IN THE
Docks Business School, University of East London for the degree of MA.
MAY, 2015
13,128 words
I declare that no material contained in the thesis has been used in any other submission for
an academic award
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U1321095 Page 8
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Dissertation Details
Title of thesis
A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF THE
Full title, including any subtitle RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION PROCESS
IN THE NIGERIAN PUBLIC SECTOR: A
CASE STUDY OF THE NATIONAL SPACE
AND RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT AGENCY.
Supervisor(s)/advisor PONTIER, MAARTEN
Qualification name MA
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Do you want to make the Open Closed
dissertation Open Access (on the
public web) or Closed Access (for UEL
users only)?
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This research is dedicated to God Almighty who has given me the opportunity
and understanding for the successful completion of this study. This research is
also dedicated to my parents Mr & Mrs M.A. Popoola who have been a source
And to my supervisor Maarten Pontier, thank you for your advice during the
course of this research. I appreciate your efforts towards getting this study to
Akintola. Thank you for the love and support throughout the course of this
research.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
DECLARATION 7
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 12
ABSTRACT 15
1 CHAPTER ONE 17
1.0 INTRODUCTION 17
1.1 OBJECTIVES 17
1.2 PROPOSED METHODOLOGY 19
1.3 RATIONALE OF THE STUDY 19
1.4 STRUCTURE OF THE STUDY 21
2 LITERATURE REVIEW 23
PUBLIC SECTOR 38
3 CHAPTER THREE 41
3.1 INTRODUCTION 41
4 CHAPTER FOUR 52
4.1 INTRODUCTION 52
SECTOR 63
6.0 CONCLUSIONS 72
7.0 RECOMMENDATIONS 75
BIBLIOGRAPHY 78
APPENDIX I 85
APPENDIX II 87
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ABSTRACT
This research was to critically analyse the selection and recruitment in the
Character Principles and their compliance with best practice; to establish if any
form of grading for selection and recruitment practices is used; to establish the
consequences of doing recruitment and selection like this and what to change
for future successes. A survey was designed and its data was collected by
Research and Development Agency. The sample was selected through Non-
respondents were selected from the HR, Science, Administrative and Finance
departments. The data collected was analyzed and presented using descriptive
tables and frequencies for presentation. At the end of the study, findings
revealed that not all employees strongly agreed to all the questions training
serves in this process. This means that Training in the public service has not
been 100% adopted thereby it’s of no significant use. Findings also revealed
that the grading system is being biased and not complied with the Federal
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recommendations were made for future successes in the process as well the
research.
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1. CHAPTER ONE
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Every organization wants to achieve a certain goal which can be as a result of
effective recruitment and selection of the right persons in the organization.
Recruiting and Selecting people into positions where they would perform
efficiently is a goal that must be achieved by many organization (Searle, R
2003). Having said that, it would be suggested that organizations should base
their preferences on hard technical skills as well as soft personal traits.
Employers should try to realize this personal trait in employees when trying to
recruit and select. Recruitment & Selection forms are important concepts of
HRM which ensures that organization have the human resources, knowledge
to enable such organization to function effectively and efficiently. It involves
the process of the knowledge that an organization needs to employ people
(Dessler, G 2004). The efficiency and effectiveness of any organization whether
private or public sector depends solely on the calibre of the workforce
involved. The availability of a competent and effective labour force does not
just happen but is achieved through an effective recruitment exercise
(Peretomode and Peretomode 2001). Recruitment refers to setting up
activities that will be used to obtain a number of right people at the right time
from the right places (Nickels et al., 1999), and its aim is to select persons who
best meet the needs of the organization to develop and maintain qualified and
adequate workforce through which an organization can fulfill its human
resource plan. The recruitment process starts by specifying human resource
requirements that is numbers, skills and levels which are the results of job
analysis and human resource planning activities (CIPD, 2010). Information
gotten from job analysis and human resource planning activates the next stage
in the recruitment process which involves attracting potentially qualified
candidates to apply for vacant posts in an organization. This may be done
through recruitment within the organization i.e. internal sources or outside the
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organization external source of recruitment. Recruiting candidates for the
public service has been one of the very crucial tasks of modern administration
(Basu, 1994). In Nigeria, the state and federal public service commission serves
as agents for recruitment & selection activities (Nwachukwu, 2000). The
Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) is in charge of the recruitment
activities in the Nigerian public service. However, the commission then assigns
powers to federal ministries departments to recruit junior staff to posts graded
GL 01–06 (Al-Gazali, 2006). The Nigerian public service system emphasizes
consistency, standardization, and transparency (Babaru, 2003) in recruiting
qualified applicants. But despite all of these qualities, it has been seen that the
recruitment process does not have any form of fairness and transparency
thereby making it tough and impossible to recruit qualified applicants for jobs.
political and economic demands also caused problems that affect recruitment
in the Nigerian public service. These issues are caused from corrupts
leaders trying to influence managers by putting their own people even when
the candidates are not qualified. They lack the ability and paper work and
therefore do not qualify for these jobs while the qualified ones face ill
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Another problem has to do with the inability to understand the Federal
managers used for selection and recruitment process. This means that if they
recruitment without any hitches. Hence, the reason for this research questions
are very important to note so as to meet the goal of the objectives. It seeks to
answer the research question ‘What are the bases for selection and
Questionnaires are defined as the cost effective way of collecting data with the
be sent through email using Survey Monkey and will be conducted in Ile-Ife,
employees and a sample size of 70 employees will be used. This method has
sampling method. The sample will be based on age grouping and work
organization and the researcher will be able to get more information from
been selected for registration and record keeping. These departments were
also selected because they are involved in the decision making that has to do
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1.4 Rationale of the Study
The rationale behind this study is to look at the question why the problem of
recruitment & selection occur despite all possible measures to make it done
accurately. It also seeks to provide a basis for Nigerian public service and
into service and matching them accurately into positions. As it is a known fact
that whenever there is recruitment taking place in this sector, politicians for
example interfere and make sure that their candidates scale through
organization recruiting staffs that are in most cases incompetent and would
commission and their recruiting agencies to select candidates that meet the
The introduction of this chapter is to establish the basis of the study, to justify
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and relevant literatures to this project, the views from different researches by
which deals with how the research will be designed and how it would give a
the reasons why this method is being used. The chapter four will be on data
analysis and presentation which will include the interpretation of data and
figures. Conclusions will be drawn at the end from the results of the study and
made.
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CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
& Sharma (2005). Plumbley (1985) suggested that the profitability and even
organization; which has been argued by (Lewis, 1984; Plumbley, 1985; Smith
and Robertson, 1993; Terpstra, 1996) that if candidates are not recruited
applicants who have enough experience and qualifications likely related to the
job specifications needed are in due course selected. Armstrong (2006) in his
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Scolarios, Lockyer & Johnson (2003), explained in their view that recruitment
and selection starts by evaluating the need for labour and evaluating job
important part of the recruitment process even before the selection process
essence means that recruitment and selection process should be done without
hitches and the process should be properly defined in order to get the
appropriate employee in the organization that they could promote, they tend
to put up so much effort into recruitment & selection for candidates outside of
selection process refers to picking out from recruited applicants, those that fit
specific and suitable jobs, and assigning them to these jobs as argued by
(Chandan, 1987). It should be noted that Job analysis which is the study of
what should be done, how, and by whom in current and proposed jobs, begins
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together a detailed description of tasks, explaining the relationship of the job
standards and requirements (Jain and Saakshi, 2005). Then Cliford 1994 argued
that Job analysis does two things for instance, it explains what is needed
to the recruiter about the job itself by specifying the essential duties, and
opined by Ash, 1988. While the other describes the skills, knowledge, abilities
enormously to the field of HRM and have also given a deep with wider
persons to the right position which makes recruitment and selection important
in all situations. With the way there are issues of shortage of skills and the
R & S; it will be advisable to ensure a step by step analysis for the process.
selection process. As agreed by Chapman & Webster 2003, they explained that
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recruitment could be done either online, internal or external. As argued by
advertising, assessment, decision making etc. This implies that recruitment and
selection doesn’t seem easy as it involves proper planning in order to get the
right people and sustain them. Hence, the essence of management process
evolves round recruitment of eligible staff and failure to do this may lead to
2006). Breaugh & Starke (2000:45) argued that in doing this recruitment and
we know that there is need for replacing employees with those that have new
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the workforce of an organization but to meet organization’s target of recruiting
someone who can perform up to standard and show commitment which will
Alan Price (2007), he on the other hand argued that HRM in a business context
for employment purposes. He further said that the process is not an easy one
hence, it needs managing decisions and wide preparation in order to select the
It was argued by Costello 2006 that the set of processes and activities which is
individuals and even organizations can select each other in their interests. The
processes involved in the recruitment provide the organization with the best
and forecasting is not left out in the recruitment process because it gives room
of plans to eliminate or fill future openings which is based on the needs that
may arise in the future Noe, Hollenbeck, Gerhart and Wright (2008). The
available talent within and outside the organization can be expanded to retain
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organization is to being influenced by the strategies, values and culture of the
goals, Amos et al. (2004:34). This is an issue with recruitment & selection in the
public sector which has led to an issue with productivity. The ability to attract
applicants was not the problem but being able to recruit the right person was
an issue. In the cause of this study, I found out that in Nigeria there is a large
number of unskilled applicants applying for jobs in the public sector, Branine
(2008). One of the reasons for this is because there isn’t too much task to work
on and most of the times they are idle as there isn’t much to do. This is a big
issue for employers and it would be assumed that they have to be very careful
In the case of Jovanovich (2004) his arguments laid emphasis which is attached
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of an organization is referred to as a human resource information system,
Huselid (1995). The aim for the system is to aid human resource services from
the strategic level to the operational and tactical levels wherein decisions-
managers to locate the best candidate suitable for the vacancies available. The
workers are not only made to replace the departing employees or to add to a
workforce but it focus on recruiting workers who can perform at a high level
and show greater commitment. Fatiregun 2002 on the other hand argued that
decisions however, are often taken by the line managers for good reason.
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supporting or advisory role to supervisors or people who will work with the
new employee.
the right person in the right job. As we know that the first few activities of the
with importance. The best practices of recruiting and selecting this day is done
through web which has loads of activities and it is known as e-recruitment. The
essence of this as Dressler (2000) listed are to build a pool of candidates for
techniques to point out viable job candidates, send one or more viable job
interviews, and determine to which applicant gets the offer. This is the ideal
process for recruitment and selection which is why DeCenzo and Robbins
(2005:20) suggested that when the need for selection & recruitment in an
successful recruitment & selection process. There was an issue in (2014) during
recruitment & selection process in one of the public sector in Nigeria which
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Planning is a process that should be adopted by several organizations in
ensuring that the number of staff needed is recruited and as well as the
qualified candidates are selected for the vacant position. The selected
candidates must be able to effectively and efficiently manage the task before
them which will help the organization in the attainment of their overall
strategic objectives. DeCenzo and Robbins (2005:21) also added that human
resource managers must ensure appropriate staffs are available to meet the
is to determine and get skilled employees and make them available for the
attainment of a set goal. For instance, if the set goal of an organization over a
skilled manpower needed will be made available in order to handle the task.
Knowing that the people (HR) in the organizations improves product, make
by El-kot & Leat (2008) recruitment and selection processes begin with
fairs, newspaper Beardwell 2007; Cober & Brown 2006; Gobler et al. 2006;
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Tucker 2012). Barstram (2002) and Anderson (2003) then opined arguing that
applicants against the demands and rewards inherent in a given job (Herriot,
Jackson et al., 1989; Pettigrew et al., 1988; Raghuram and Arvey, 1996; Walker,
1992) hence, the issue of staffing in organizations may be without any hitches
by Judge and Ferris, 1994. The fundamental part of the dominant activities
good reason taken by the line managers. There is a significant sense as the
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expected that Human resource managers play more of an associate
consultative role to those that will handle or work with the new employee.
sites like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn among others. These social media
has led so many employers to curtain job seekers (Shea and Wesley, 2006;
Immigration Service as part of the Nigeria Public Service gave room for
examination or interview. Further motives for the use of social media for the
selection purpose is due to the merit it has over outdated human resource
tools which are made available without cost as opined by Jacob (2009) and are
A research was carried out of recent to look into the correlation between the
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Rozelle & Landis (2002). It was theorized that internet recruitment will be seen
employment. Florea & Badea (2013) argued in one of their recent researches
increases or decreases its positive net effect. This in essence means that the
use of recruitment program via the internet could help the highly modest and
addressed the reliability and validity of using social networking sites to screen
and select applicants is not known; he argued that until the reliability and
needs to be very careful when hiring and relying on social networking sites to
not already in the Public Service of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It however,
doe not include the transfer of officers from other Public Service in the
(1997:1) in one of his researches opined that out of the three foremost factors
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important. It was further argued that the quantity and quality of organizational
point was validated by Terry George in his book The Principle of Management
that “people are far the most important resource available to managers”.
(MDAs) to deploy officers on Grade Level 07 (GL 07) and above to their
the case study, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA)
as their mother agency are given the authority in the recruitment of officers
into the agency. Officers working under NASRDA are centrally deployed from
headquarter in Abuja. However, in the case of junior officers (GL 01 – 06), each
center under NASRDA is invested to employ locally and in this case, most
people employed are often the indigenous of the state where the center is
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projects; personal influence and lobby; ability and performance as well as
the field offices. It is now so glaring why some field officers are redundant in
the field, since the station doesn’t actually require their service. Other factors
should be secondary basis while the requirement for specific officers should
following categories:
pensionable post for a specified period. (d) On temporary basis other than also
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normal service of two years in the post. This period may however, be reduced
be appointed to the full grade on probation and will not be eligible for
confirmation in the service until he/she has fulfilled the conditions laid down in
(b) A confirmed officer who is advanced to the training grade for the purpose
hereto and the period of such secondment will not normally exceed the period
laid down for the training except with the special advice of the Office of
(c) Except where the Federal Civil Service Commission decides otherwise, all
officer from pensionable service elsewhere. Adapted from the Public Service
Rule
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2.3 CHALLENGES OF RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION IN THE NIGERIAN
PUBLIC SECTOR
Kaplan and Norton (2004) was of the opinion that the common problem faced
However, it should be known that if any organization wants to achieve its aims,
it needs people who are competent. It was on this basis Max Weber stated
their technical qualifications. There are six geo-political zones in Nigeria and
fit into the system. This brings about the issue of favouritism as
that they are not qualified which leads to a setback in the productivity of the
organization. This had led to inefficiency among staff in the Nigerian public
service and inability to deliver over the years. The public sector of every nation
is to help in her national development Briggs 2007 but on the contrary, the
performance of public sector in Nigeria has been an issue Adeyemo & Salami
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2008. Kagara 2009 explained that the public sector in Nigeria helps to create
2008 argued that the performance of the sector is an issue as the Federal
Character system has been politicized hence does not create any form of
protection for its system. For this reason, Chuks & Eme 2011 argued that
recruitment and selection has been unable to adapt to this political, economic
changes because it has created a level of weakness for the public service that
leads to economic crisis in the system. Okpala (2012:114) in his book explained
The major goal of a human resource planning is to get the accurate number of
employee with the skills required and know-how in the right job at the
accurate time and at the reasonable cost. Past research shows that the
and skilled HR experts within the HR department will not only truncate vacancy
duration, but would also improve the quality of the candidates. Moreover,
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effective recruitment and selection is possible only if there is a dedicated and
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3.0 CHAPTER THREE: METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter relies on different ways that is being adopted by the researcher in
methods and how it will be used. This chapter consists of the research aims
and objectives, the research design that will be used for the study, the
research approach, data sources which would include gathering of data and
analysing it, questionnaire design, sample size which will explain the technique
used to select the samples used for the research. The information and data
collected afterwards will be used to answer the questions that have been
stated for this study. The chapter will also include data analysis as well as
The aim for this study is to determine how recruitment and selection in the
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2. To assess if the process is based on Federal Character Principles and their
compliance to the best practices;
3. To establish if any form of grading for selection and recruitment practices is
used;
After this objectives must have been met, it will mean that the aim of the study
has been met. Hence in order to do this, the research questions are very
the research question ‘What are the basis for selection and recruitment
biased means and if training serves as a guideline for effective recruitment and
Character Principles.”
Research philosophies differ on the goals of the research and the way to
assumptions and the nature of reality and truth, it can then influence the way
in which the research is undertaken, from its design and methods through to
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details in order that approaches congruent to the nature and aims of
the particular inquiry are adopted, and to ensure that researcher biases are
that we all have our preferences and that we are likely to shape our research
designs into suite; Blaikie (2000) also explained these aspects as part of a series
of choices that the researcher must consider and shows the alignment that
must connect these choices back to its original Research Problem. If this is not
with the result that the final work will be undermined through lack of
understand the assumptions behind the research tools you choose. Galliers
He added that, there are two types of research philosophies; they include the
description are called naturalists. Levin (1988) was of the view that, positivists
believe that reality can be stable, described and observed from an objective
point of view without affecting the phenomena that is studied. He added that,
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the observations should be repeatable and isolated. This study will adopt the
about what is important to study, what can be known, what research tools and
designs are appropriate, and what standards should be used to judge the
measurable, and knowable and that there is just one truth, one external
people; they accept the possibility that there are multiple versions of reality.
People who are uncomfortable with such uncertainty are more likely to choose
(countable) and knowable truth; people who can tolerate uncertainty are more
were equally critical of positivists’ work, arguing that the positivists’ search for
generalizable rules and their focus on quantification ignored matters that are
important but not easily counted and denied the complexity and the
that there is a reality but argue that it cannot be measured directly, only
perceived by people, each of whom views it through the lens of his or her prior
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experience, knowledge, and expectations. Naturalists seek to explain what
they have seen, regardless of whether their findings can be extended beyond
than on trying to predict what will happen next. This study is carried out
the answers to all the questions being asked so that the entire data covers the
Research Designs are plans and procedures used for research that span
analysis (Kothari, 2009). This plan involves several decision and they
need not be taken in the order in which they make sense. Selecting a research
design is based on the nature of the research problem or issue being addressed
which was why Cooper (2008) explained that, when selecting a research design
achieve. We have 3 designs but the most appropriate for this study is the
and quantitative is that one is framed in terms of using words rather than
Creswell also in his book explained that quantitative refers to testing objective
form of inquiry build protections against bias, and are able to generalize and
replicate the findings. Denzlin & Lincoln 2005 explained that qualitative
Saunders et al (2009) the research design is the overall plan of how the
researcher will answer the questions that have been stated and how the
objectives of the study will be achieved. He stated that there are three natures
event (Saunders et al, 2003). Collis and Hussey (2003) stated that, it is used for
“what” and “how” and it will enable the researcher to get the information
needed from the respondents as to the objectives for the study. The study will
then adopt a survey strategy while its data will be collected through the
method is selected in order to ensure that the data collected goes in line or
answers the research objectives and questions that will be answered in this
study.
The data for this research was gathered from primary and secondary source as
answer questions in such a way that it’s already known. While Secondary data
and explanatory. Qualitative is being used for this study, this is because it
researcher also made sure that the data collected are reasonable and
justifiable. The data collection method will be through questionnaires using the
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survey method and will be analysed using figures and percentages for
illustrations.
being collected by considering only data from a sub group rather than all
roadmap that helps to serve as the basis for the selection of a survey sample
and also it affects many other important aspects of a survey in any study. In
doing this, we must explain a sample frame that represents the population
interest from which a sample is drawn (Lavrakas 2008). The researcher opted
for quota sampling method to select participants for the research. It involves
age grouping between 18-60 and work experiences and sample will be selected
that can possibly answer the research question. For this study, a sample size of
seventy persons was selected from employees in NASRDA in Ife, Nigeria. Non-
participants from employees from all departments which includes the HR,
adequate information for this study. The choice was adopted as it is less costly
concentrated on face to face contact which will not be possible since the
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research is not done within the reach of the researcher. This method was also
used as it involves selecting samples within the strata available and is always
Also, quota sampling was used as it was easy to divide and select respondents
into different steps in order to test its richness and validity. Questionnaires
were provided and returned with answers which made it clear to the
researcher. After which the responses were collated and reviewed to check
how sufficient and précised the response given was. The researcher then sorts
out the data by grouping all answers that has been given for each of the
direct label on their position in the organization so that it will not be linked to
them at the end of the research. And then finally, the researcher will make
analysis and interpretation of data given; also linking them to older studies.
consistency for the reliability of a study due to threat which implies that a
avoid threats for the reliability of findings. These threats could be from
participants’ error or even from the researcher. It also explains that it can be
analysis, methods and sample size. Validity refers to the extent in which ones
based survey, internal validity would create a set of questions that will be
The study has undergone a few challenges and limitations, one of which was
due to the time frame given which was short for the whole project which
posed a limitation for the study. Another issue was respondents’ not getting
access to internet on time which led to late response as the researcher was not
able to collate data at its specific time. Also, distance denied researcher from
beginning of the study, random probability sampling method could have been
selected at the same. Hence, quota sampling was used to select respondents
from some of the departments and survey monkey was used to distribute
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4. CHAPTER FOUR: DATA ANALYSIS AND FINDINGS
4.1 INTRODUCTION
A total of 70 invitations for the online survey were sent out via the site survey
monkey, which did not yield any invalid responses. Data collected will be
analyzed in this chapter in order to carry out the necessary tests, discussions
and also to give interpretations. This chapter will form the foundation for the
Male 48 68.6
Female 22 31.4
Table 4.1 shows the gender distribution of respondent. The result shows that
shown in the table above, we can deduce that majority of the respondents
were males.
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Table 4.2 Educational Qualification or Respondents
FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE
WAEC/GCE 4 5.7
ND/HND 5 7.1
Degree 45 64.3
Masters 9 12.9
PhD 7 10
Budgeting 3 4.3
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Science 40 57.1
Administration 12 17.1
of the respondents, while budgeting and finance department account for 4.3%
respondents. This is an indication that male staffs are more than the female
18 – 30yrs 15 21.4
31 – 40yrs 33 47.1
41 – 50yrs 19 27.1
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51 – 60yrs 3 4.3
that falls within the age bracket of 41 – 50 years with a share of 27.1%, while
respondents that falls within the ages bracket of 18 – 30years have a share of
21.4% and lastly respondents that are above 30years have a share of 4.3%. This
is an indication that majority of the respondents’ falls within the active and
productivity age.
1 – 10yrs 34 48.6
11 – 20yrs 25 35.7
21 – 30yrs 8 11.4
31 – 40yrs 3 4.3
organization for between 11 – 20years, while only 11.4% and 4.3% of the
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respondents have stayed in the organization for between 21 - 30 years and 31
It was also discovered from the findings that the organization recruits once in a
Table 4.7 Training of employee in the public services are considered during
above revealed that 66(94.3%) of the respondents just agree with the assertion
that training of employee in the public services are considered during selection
process, while only 1(1.4%) and 3(4.3%) of the respondents strongly agree and
employee in the public services plays a vital role during selection process.
All the respondents agrees with the assertion that training is an essential
respondents and 1(1.4%) of the respondents just agree and agree with the
assertion. This corroborated the first assertion that training is important and
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Table 4.9 Adoption of employees training in public services helps in Selection
and Recruitment process?
Findings on table 4.9 above interprets that 2.8% of respondents strongly agree
that the adoption of employee training helps in selection process; while 94.3%
‘just agree’ to this assertion.
Table 4.10 One of the guiding principle during Recruitment and Selection is
Training?
One of the guiding principle for recruitment and selection should be Training,
but it was discovered that 68.5% disagree to this assertion while just 10%
‘strongly agree’. This means that Training system is not really seen as a guiding
principle even though it plays a significant role during selection process; many
of the respondents still feel that there is need for more commitment based on
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the results from the analysis. Furthermore, it was deducted from the analysis
Table 4.11 Are Selection and Recruitment in the public service guided by the
Federal Character Principle?
the assertion that recruitment and selection process are guided by federal
assertion, while 6(8.6%) of the respondents just agree with assertion. With this
analysis, we could see that federal character principle is not properly adopted
into the process as expressed by the respondents. It’s been stated that when
but 52respondents has disagreed that its being adopted in the selection
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Table 4. 12 Ethnicity and Religion play any role in influencing Recruitment
and Selection practices in public sector?
agree with the assertion that ethnicity and religion plays a role in influencing
strongly agree with the assertion. This is an indication that ethnicity and
public services; that explains that recruitment and selection process are
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The Federal Character system is the guide to what needs to be done during
recruitment and selection for the public service has explained in chapter two
Table 4.14 Federal Character is one of the major guiding principles during
Recruitment and Selection process?
In table 4.14 above, 21.4% strongly agree to the assertion that Federal
character is a major principle that should be used, while 74.3% ‘agreed’ and
4.3% just agree respectively.
Table 4.15 Grading systems are adopted during Recruitment and Selection
process?
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Findings on grading system and selection process as presented in table 4.15
11(15.7%) of the respondents strongly agree with the assertion while 9(12.8%)
of the respondents just agree with the assertion. However, this is an indication
that the grading system is not properly adopted during recruitment process.
The views of the respondents established that the grading system is not just
selection process. This was derived from the views of 53(75.7%) and 17(24.3%)
strongly agree and agree with the assertion that the grading system plays an
essential role in recruitment exercise but the question is if it’s in use. They all
attest to the assertion that grading system is one of the guiding principles
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No of Respondents Percent (%)
Strongly Agree 15 21.4%
Agree 0 0%
Just Agree 6 8.6%
Disagree 0 0%
Strongly Disagree 49 70.0%
In table 4.17 above, 70% of the respondents ‘strongly disagree’ helps the
recruitment and selection process; 15% strongly agree and 8.6% just agrees
respectively.
Table 4.18 One of the guiding principle during Recruitment and Selection is
grading system?
In table 4.18, 8.6% of the respondents have strongly agreed to this assertion,
71.4% agreed, 14% just agreed and 5% have strongly disagreed to this
assertion. With this analysis, it could be agreed that grading system is seen as
one of the guiding principle but the question is how effective is this managed?
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Strongly Agree 7 10.0%
Agree 20 28.5%
Just Agree 0 0
Disagree 25 35.7%
Strongly Disagree 18 25.7%
while 10% strongly agree, 25.7% strongly disagree. This is an indication that
individual staff do not really adhere strictly and diligently to their various
promotion.
They all agree with the assertion that following due process during recruitment
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Table 4.21 Selection process enable the entire applicant to have equal
chances of been selected?
In table 4.21 above, only 2.9% strongly agree to this that selection process
enable the entire applicant to have equal chances of been selected; 7.1% agree
and 90% of respondents ‘just agree’ to this statement. All the respondents
attest to the assertion that the recruitment process enables the entire
applicant to have equal chance of being selected but emphasis will be laid on
Table 4.22 Selection process in the public services promotes ethical balances
and reduces bias?
In the table, 64.3% disagree that selection process in the public service
promotes ethical balances and reduce bias; while 7.1% just agree and 28.6%
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5.0 CHAPTER FIVE: DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
The data representation and analysis has helped in getting answers to the
questions.
The study revealed that even though Training services are considered as
important during selection processes. There is still a wide gap that affects this
doing a particular job which would aid productivity. Another question which
that just 2% “strongly agree” while 94.3% “Just agree” to this assertion.
and selection 68.5% disagree to this assertion. This means that Training is not
100% adopted into the system even though in the analysis respondents
selection should be Training, but it was discovered that 68.5% disagree to this
assertion while just 10% ‘strongly agree’. This means that Training system in
the public sector plays a significant role during selection process but many of
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the respondent still feel that there is need for more commitment based on the
results from the analysis. Furthermore, it was deducted from the analysis that
Secondly, looking at the analysis above for the Federal Character Principle
74.3% “strongly disagree”. According to the public service rule, the Federal
character principle serves as rule that guides in recruitment and selection and
should be done without bias of race or religion. This also led to asking if
64.3% “strongly agree” that means respondents must have experienced this
defects and accept that one’s religion or background affects being recruited in
the public service. Another analysis which is very important and vital is the
the respondents strongly agree to that statement. With this analysis, it could
be said that though this principle exists it still need to be well articulated for
Grading system and Selection process also revealed some aspects of directives
on its questions which explain if grading system is adopted. The analysis under
the first question reveals that 15.7% “strongly agree” to this assertion.
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#133,000; GL 04 #144,000 while board of directors #2.271m. If converted to in
dollars that will amount to $87, $94 and $1,478. This is ridiculous as even the
directors do not do as much work as the staff members. Looking at the private
sector, it can’t be compared to what is in the public sector as the gap in pay is
much more wider from about 300 – 500% (Babaru, 2003) but with the public
sector the salary of the civil servant is not worth it; but as it was analyzed in
the study Nigerians take any job not minding the pay rather than being
‘strongly agree’ to the assertion that grading system is one of the guiding
principle for recruitment and selection process compared to 77.1% that ‘just
agreed’. This means that though it’s been adopted in the Federal Character
guide and is a guiding principle, majority of the respondents still do not see it
respondents just agree with the assertion. This indicates that adoption of the
grading system to be used is still not properly adopted into the system, hence;
the reason why many Nigerians agree to work not minding the pay. 8.6% of the
respondents have strongly agreed to this assertion that one of the guiding
principle is the grading system, 71.4% agreed, 14% just agreed and 5% have
strongly disagreed to this assertion. With this analysis, it could be agreed that
grading system is seen as one of the guiding principle but the question is how
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effective is this managed? Analysis had been made earlier in this part about
comparing this system to the private sector and it was realized that it cannot
stand.
Another aspect of this study which is also very important is about the
agreed’ that it’s been improved. This explains that there is still a level to be
current practices. Also it was viewed that applicants are not given equal
chances which means there is a level of discrimination and bias. This is not in
terms with the Federal Character Principle guide as all geo-political zones have
the right to apply in any state or region. If 63% ‘just agree’ of the respondents
applicant to have equal chances of been selected, then the whole system
recruitment and selection of the Nigerian public sector even though in the
Nigerian public rule everyone has equal chance not minding the race nor bias
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from table 4.22 above which interprets that, 64.3% disagree that selection
process in the public service promotes ethical balances and reduce bias; while
7.1% just agree and 28.6% agree respectively. If we have to weigh this, the %
of respondents who disagree is more than those that agreed that the process
promote ethical balance and reduces bias among staff in the public services.
In conclusion, it has been observed from the above analysis that training,
the above analysis also reflects that these points are still not valid and reliable
their effort without bias to meet the needs of the service. Also, it is very
selectees and ensuring that they all have a knowledge of the federal character
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6.0 CHAPTER SIX: CONCLUSIONS
The aim for this study was to critically analyse how recruitment and selection
selection like this and what to change for future successes. Since recruitment
a quality management. The aims for this study were achieved presented in the
analysis. The analysis confirmed that recruitment and selection is not a new
selection is done effectively it will have a positive impact as well as turn out
that are used for judging successful job performance. From this objective, it
was realized that even though training was considered as an important aspect
for organization during selection and recruitment processes. Not all employees
strongly agreed to all the questions training serves in this process. This means
that Training in the public service has not been 100% adopted thereby it’s of
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no significant use. Training assists the utilization of human resource that helps
the trainee to reach the organization and individual’s goals (Adeniji, Osibanjo &
Abiodun 2013). There is a saying that says ‘if you don’t train them, don’t blame
them’. Hence, managers should endeavor that there is adequate training for
Secondly, the findings reflect that the Federal Character Principle which serves
as a guide for all the geopolitical zones in Nigeria has not been well blended. In
the analysis, we can deduce that there is a form of bias and discrimination
during this process which shouldn’t be. In the analysis, there is a wide gap
between the percentages of respondents that agreed that the Principle serves
as a guideline to those that did not agree. This means that the Federal
Character Principle has not been duly followed; employees should have equal
able to figure out how to create awareness for recruiters in order to give all
employees. The study also revealed grading system is not properly adopted
into the public service. This system is the part that is supposed to encourage
increase in their wages. We can deduce from the analysis that respondents do
not feel secured based on the grading system from the question asked; many
take the job not minding what comes with in in order not to stay unemployed.
This means though they agreed that it’s important in recruitment system but it
has not effectively worked its way in the processes compared to the private
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sector.
that recruitment and selection stays effective. The implication of this is that it
will help boost and increase productivity for employees in the organization.
organizers for their outcomes. Another issue also has to do with the HR
process. From the analysis, we could see that the number of respondents from
the HR department were very few. This means that the HR system is weak in
the first place and therefore do not have positive effect on its process. Another
issue that was denoted in the study was also on the issue of managers being
biased minded when recruiting and selecting candidates. They tend to select
people whom they know or are from the same region. This does not go in line
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7.0 CHAPTER SEVEN: RECOMMENDATIONS
First of all, the issues with the HR department need to be tackled as this
the area of recruiting and selecting people into the organization. During the
research, we could see that the HR department didn’t respond well to this
recruiting and selecting employees or they are not capable of this process. This
in essence will not give positive results to the organization; hence, the Top
building a platform that will help the HR department perform better in their
duties. Also, training should be provided for each and every member of the HR
department which would take them through the Federal Character Principle
guide. The study revealed that training is not really a part of the process in the
public service i.e. it has not been properly adopted into the system.
employees being selected are properly trained in order to know the terms of
the work flow. If the present respondents were properly trained, the turnout
of respondents on that aspect would have been much higher than the figures
we got. They should ensure that new selectees have an idea of the job
system, management should ensure that this is done with merit as it is a form
should ensure that grading system should provide basis of promotions which
motivation.
Furthermore, the Federal Character Principle which serves as a guide for civil
servants should be provided for all civil servants and their managers. This will
enable then know their rights and also reduce form of bias among employees.
Since these laws are linked to all the geopolitical zones in the country,
managers should therefore ensure that employees are given equal opportunity
The results of this research has provided a ground for further study; looking at
the case of Nigeria and its public service. One area that needs to be considered
is to look at how HR is positioned in the Nigerian public service and to see how
they operate in all of their sectors. It was deducted during the cause of the
research that this depart is not as active as it should be. Hence, a research
been used. Future studies should be carried out on the labour market and why
many are not qualified despite huge amount of money that has been claimed
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to have been spent on education, training etc. In a place where labour market
employers compete to hire the best, and the workers compete for the best
satisfying job. Further studies needs to be done to find out why workers are
still not recruited and also why people are been manipulated to positions
studies could also be carried out on other methods for example using face to
face interviews for the research. This will also enable the researcher to get
could also be used for further study to develop a richer theoretical perspective
and create a focus for the research (Tashakkori and Teddie 2010). Other topics
of recruitment and selection such as job analysis, job description, internal and
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Appendix 1
Dear Participant, you are being invited to take part in a research study. Before
you decide whether to participate, it is important for you to understand why
the research is being done and what it will involve. Please take time to read the
following information carefully and ask us if there is anything that is not clear
or if you would like more information. Take time to decide whether or not you
wish to take part.
What is the purpose of the study? - The purpose for this research is to
understand and know how effective selection and recruitment processes is in
the Nigerian Public Sector using National Space & Development Agency as case
study; the merits used for this process, how often it’s done and also to share
the strengths and weaknesses for future corrective measures. As part of a staff
in the (National Space & Development Agency) Nigerian Public sector, I believe
and know that you have knowledge of how selection and recruitment is done. I
will like you to participate in this research so you can share your view of what
the process is like and what needs to be amended. Personal data such as age,
sex, gender will be collected be collected in this research, this has no negative
effect on the research as it will make it easier for me to separate and work on
my numbers.
What will I have to do if I take part? - This research will involve questionnaires
that have been designed in an easy and understandable manner which will not
take participants more than 10minutes to answer. The questionnaires will be
sent to participants via email or post. A sample questionnaire will be added.
What are the possible disadvantages or risks of taking part? - There will be
neither risks nor discomfort in this research.
Do I have to take part? - Dear Participant, it is not compulsory for you to take
part. And if you do take part at the beginning of the research, you can decide
to withdraw if you don’t feel comfortable with the process. Your involvement
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in this Research is at your own will. You are under no obligation to take part in
the study; you are free to withdraw at any time. All information related to your
responses will also be safely destroyed.
What will happen to the information? - Your participation in this study and all
information collected will be kept strictly confidential in accordance with the
Data Protection Act (1998). Unless otherwise indicated, all personal
information and data collected will be coded and anonymised so that you
cannot be recognised from it. The collected data will be securely stored on a
password protected computer and safely disposed of once the
project/dissertation has been completed. The results of this study will be
reported as part of my degree programme and may be further disseminated
for scientific benefit. The results will be available to you on request.
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Appendix 11
Research Questions
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QUESTIONNAIRE
SECTION A
5. State how long you have been working for National Space and Research
Agency from this range of years?
SECTION B
6. How frequent are Recruitment and selection exercises conducted in the
public service in Nigeria? Every year [ ] Once a year [ ] Twice a
year [ ] Thrice a year [ ]
Other [ ]
7. GRADING SYSTEM
Statement Strongly Agree Just Disagree Strongly
agree agree disagree
Grading system is adopted
during recruitment and selection
process
Grading system is an essential
element of recruitment exercise
Adoption of Grading system in
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public services helps in the
selection and recruitments
process
One of the guiding principle
during recruitment and selection
is grading system
8. TRAINING
Statement Strongly Agree Just Disagree Strongly
agree agree disagree
Training of employee in the
public services are considered
during recruitment and
selection process
Training is an essential element
of recruitment exercise
Adoption of employees training
in public services helps in the
selection and recruitments
process
One of the guiding principle
during recruitment and selection
is training
9. FEDERAL CHARACTER
Statement Strongly Agree Just Disagree Strongly
agree agree disagree
Are Selection and Recruitment
practices in the public service
guided by the Federal Character
Principle
Ethnicity and religion play any
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role in influencing recruitment
and selection practices in the
public sector in Nigeria?
10.CONSEQUENCES
Statement Strongly Agree Just Disagree Strongly
agree agree disagree
recruitment and selection
process has improved
professionalism and productivity
in the public service using your
department as an example
It eradicate unlawful
recruitment exercise
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