Human Resources As A Catalyst For Economic Growth And Development
(A Case Study Of Abuja Municipal Area Council)
Human resources, commonly referred to as the backbone of any thriving economy, play a fundamental role in catalyzing economic growth and development. Through strategic investment in education, training, and skill development, nations harness the potential of their populace, transforming them into a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation, productivity, and competitiveness across various sectors. By fostering an environment conducive to lifelong learning and continuous professional development, human resources not only enhance individual employability but also bolster organizational efficiency and effectiveness. Moreover, initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the workforce contribute to harnessing the full spectrum of talent, fostering creativity, and facilitating robust decision-making processes. As such, human resources serve as a cornerstone for sustainable economic progress, empowering individuals, organizations, and entire nations to thrive in an ever-evolving global landscape.
This research work attempts to access the importance of human resources as a catalyst for economic growth development in Nigeria. In the first chapter, the researcher introduced topic and gave the importance of human resources in economic growth and development. This was followed by a detailed review of literature in which the importance of human resources in Economic development was discussed. The concept of human resources, human resources development and planning in Nigeria, how best to manage the human resources for economic growth and development, economic growth investment in human resources development, human resources Allocation and development in Nigeria, manpower problem, economic development in Nigeria and the enhancement and motivation of human resources in Nigeria.
Data for the study was obtained by questionnaires which is the primary source of data. Findings from the sourced data showed that human resources have great importance in economic growth and development in Nigeria. Finally, it came to a conclusion that there is need to provide qualitative education and conducive environment for human resources development in Nigeria.
Recommendation reveals that adequate attention and incentives should be accorded to human resources development in Nigeria.
Approval Page i
Dedication ii
Acknowledgement iii
Abstract v
Table of contents vi
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction 1
1.1 Background Of The Study 1
1.2 Statement Of Research Problem 3
1.3 Objective Of The Study 4
1.4 Research Questions 4
1.5 Scope Of The Study 5
1.6 Significance Of The Study 5
1.7 Definition Of Terms 6
References 8
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Literature Review 9
2.1 Theoretical Foundation Of The Study 9
2.2 The History Of Human Resources Development 10
2.3 Concept Of Human Resources 12
2.4 The Importance Of Human Resources In Economic Development And How Best To Manage The Human
Resource For Economic Growth And Development. 15
2.5 Human Resources Development And Planning In Nigeria 18
2.6 Investment In Human Resources Development 23
2.7 Human Resources Allocation And Utilization In Nigeria 26
2.8 Manpower Problem And Economic Development In Nigeria 33
2.9 Enhancement Of Motivation Of Human
Resources In Nigeria 36
References 40
CHAPTER THREE
3.1 Research Design And Methodology 43
3.2 Area Of The Study 43
3.3 Population Of The Study 44
3.4 Sample and Sampling Techniques 45
3.5 Sources Of Data Collection 46
3.6 Instrument Used For Data Collection 47
3.7 Establishing The Validity Of The Instrument 48
3.8 Establishing The Reliability Of The Instrument 48
3.9 Method Of Data Presentation And Analysis 49
CHAPTER FOUR
4.1 Data Presentation and Analysis 50
4.2 Discussion Of Findings 63
4.3 Limitations Of The Study 63
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 Summary Of Findings, Conclusion And Recommendation
5.1 Summary Of Findings 64
5.2 Conclusions 66
5.3 Recommendation 66
Bibliography 69 Appendix 73
Research Questionnaire 74
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Nigeria is a dynamic country that is blessed with abundant
human and natural resources. The country has a publication of
140 million according to the 2006 census figures and high amongst
the oil exporting countries.
Human resources is invariably the most important resources
of Nigeria even when there are gigantic machines, sophisticated
equipment and natural resources human resources still prevail.
This therefore, calls for the need to adequately develop the human
resources and then utilize human resources for the development of
the Nigerian economy. The important of the human resource
development in the Nigeria civil services as well as other
organizations is unique and cannot be under=estimated. This is
because; human resources is easily recognized as the most
important of the resource requirement for the production of goods
and services. It is the master key to the rapid industrialization and
socio-economic growth.
Nagga (2000) posited that a country that under-rates the
critical roles and underplays the importance of people in goal
achievement can neither be effective nor efficient. He stressed
that, of all factors contributing to the growth and development of
nation, the human resource is unquestionably the most crucial.
This implied that we might have money. Highly sophisticated
machine, high quality material and land with the most precious
materials on it. Unless we have the right quality and quantity of
human resources, real development and economic growth will be
almost impossible.
The above view underscores the fundamental role which
human labour play as one of the basic element of management in
economic development in Nigeria. It is against this background
that the researcher got interest in the field of human resources.
Since no economy can function efficiently without skilled and
adequately developed workforce.
It is in the light of the above background on the contribution
of human resources development to economic growth in Abuja
municipal area council. That this research is conceived. The
research will investigate the importance of human resources for
economic growth and development in Nigeria.
1.2 STATEMENT OF RESEARCH PROBLEM
Human resource development problems in Nigeria appears
to be on the increase. The unemployment phenomenon seems to
be compounded with the absence and misplacement of human
resource to capability of the public and private sectors of the
economy to provide such opportunity for human resources at their
disposal.
This problem of Nigeria under-employment lies primary with
the neglect of its human resources potential. This study therefore,
is aimed at finding out the important of human resources for
economic growth and development of the country.
1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
i) To study the importance of human resources for economic
growth and development
ii) To study how best to manage the human resources for
economic growth and development.
iii) To ascertain, evaluate and examine the extent to which
increase in investment of human resources development
could serve to economic growth and development.
iv) To find out the problem to the management of human
resources
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
i What are the importance of human resources for economic
growth and development?
ii. How best can the human resource be managed for economic
growth and development?
iii. To what extent has the development of human resource
contributed to the economic growth and development?
iv. What are the problems involved in the management of
human resources for economic growth and development?
1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The study is based on the importance of human resources as
a catalyst for economic growth and development in Nigeria. The
research will cover three main organisations. Abuja Municipal Area
(AMAC), Berger Nigeria Plc and Ministry of Foreign Affair (MFA).
1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
The importance of these research work is premised on
finding how human resources development in Nigeria can be
adequately mobilized for the benefit of the economic growth. It is
hoped that it will give importance to the need for increased and
more genuine investment opportunities on human resources in
Nigeria. Also enable the government and appropriate authorities to
make adequate economic and educational provisions for enhancing
the development of human resources.
1.7 DEFINITION OF TERMS
HUMAN RESOURCES: – These are skill, capacities possessed by
an individual that permits to turn income
ECONOMIC GROWTH: – A long term rise in capacity to supply
increasingly diverse economic goods to its population, this growing
capacity is based on advancing technology and its institutional and
ideological adjustment that it demands.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: – This is a multi-Dimensional
process involving the re-organisation and re-orientation of the
entire economic and social system. It entails qualitative
transformation of society, leads to reduction of poverty
unemployment and inequality.
Human Resources As A Catalyst For Economic Growth And Development:
Human resources, often referred to as the human capital of a nation, play a crucial role in catalyzing economic growth and development. The concept of human resources encompasses the skills, knowledge, creativity, and productivity of individuals in a society. When effectively harnessed and developed, human resources can become a significant driver of economic progress. Here are several ways in which human resources can act as a catalyst for economic growth and development:
Skilled Workforce Development: Investing in education and training programs helps individuals acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to participate in the modern workforce. A highly skilled workforce is more productive and adaptable, making it easier for a nation to compete in the global economy.
Innovation and Technology: Human resources drive innovation and technological advancement. Countries with a strong emphasis on research and development, along with a culture that encourages creativity and entrepreneurship, often see rapid technological growth and the emergence of new industries.
Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development: A well-educated and motivated workforce is more likely to engage in entrepreneurial activities. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often at the forefront of economic development, creating jobs, driving innovation, and contributing to GDP growth.
Labor Force Participation: Encouraging a larger portion of the population to participate in the labor force, including women and marginalized groups, can significantly boost economic output. This is often achieved through policies that promote equal opportunities and work-life balance.
Health and Well-being: Healthy and well-educated individuals are more productive and contribute more effectively to economic growth. Investments in healthcare and wellness programs can lead to a more robust and resilient workforce.
Infrastructure Development: Human resources also involve the development of infrastructure related to transportation, communication, and education. Adequate infrastructure enhances economic productivity by reducing logistical constraints and facilitating the exchange of information.
Global Competitiveness: A highly skilled and motivated workforce can attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and make a country more competitive in the global market. Foreign companies are more likely to invest in nations with a well-educated and capable workforce.
Human Capital Export: Countries that produce highly skilled workers can export their human capital to other nations through migration and remittances. This can be a significant source of income for developing countries.
Social Cohesion: Strong human resources can lead to social stability and cohesion. Social unrest and conflicts can hinder economic development, so a well-educated and employed population is essential for maintaining peace.
Education and Lifelong Learning: Promoting a culture of lifelong learning and continuing education helps individuals adapt to changing economic conditions. It ensures that the workforce remains relevant in the face of technological advancements and industry shifts.
In conclusion, human resources are a fundamental component of economic growth and development. Governments, businesses, and societies should invest in education, training, healthcare, and policies that promote equal opportunities to harness the full potential of their human capital. When managed effectively, human resources can act as a catalyst for sustainable economic progress and improved living standards for a nation’s citizens.