International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: Employee performance is a critical determinant of organisational success, yet many public sector institutions in developing countries face persistent productivity challenges due to inadequate training and development (T&D) programmes. Objectives: This study examined the impact of T&D on employee performance in Niger State, Nigeria, focusing on training frequency, staff skill acquisition, and implementation gaps. Methods: A quantitative descriptive survey design was employed. Using Taro Yamane's formula, 399 employees from Lapai, Chanchaga, and Borgu Local Government Areas responded to a structured questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale. Data were analysed using multiple regression (SPSS 25). Results: T&D significantly enhanced employee performance (R² = 0.937, p < 0.05). Training frequency emerged as the strongest predictor (? = 0.932, t = 76.726, p < 0.01), followed by skill acquisition (? = 0.819, t = 41.621, p < 0.01) and implementation gap (? = 0.875, t = 59.174, p < 0.01). Employees receiving regular training demonstrated superior task efficiency and productivity. Conclusions: T&D programmes are critical drivers of public sector performance. Regular training, job-relevant skill development, and effective post-training support mechanisms are essential to maximise productivity gains. Policymakers should institutionalise structured T&D initiatives aligned with organisational goals.
Unique Contribution: This study contributes to the broader field of human resource management and organizational development by examining how training and development initiatives influence employee performance in different local government contexts
Key Recommendation: recommends the institutionalization of regular training programs, alignment of training content with job-specific skill requirements, and the strengthening of post-training support mechanisms to reduce implementation gaps.