IDENTIFYING THE ELEMENTS OF QUALITY LEADERSHIP STYLES FOR SUSTAINABLE PERFORMANCE IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Public and private sectors are expected to have meaningful contributions to socio-economic development of a nation like Nigeria that allows the two sectors to co-exist.  However, there is a lack of universally recognised yardsticks to measure the leadership performance of public and private sectors in Nigeria comparably. This study anchored on path-goal theory, and contingency theory to identify the elements of quality leadership styles for sustainable performance in public and private sectors in Nigeria. Non-probabilistic survey method was employed through purposive and snowballing to gather quantitative and qualitative data from experts (75 public service, and 75 private companies) in Nigeria. T-test statistical analysis and multiple regression were employed to test the 2 hypotheses of this study, which were all statistically significant at 0.5% level. The findings from the focus group also validated the findings of quantitative data. Based on the findings of this study, it was concluded that identifying and nurturing the elements of quality leadership styles is crucial for achieving sustainable performance in both the public and private sectors in Nigeria. The study also underscores the importance of a strategic approach to leadership development, integrating both universal principles and sector-specific needs to drive sustainable performance. It is recommended in this study that a collaborative approach involving government, private sector stakeholders, and educational institutions is vital for developing robust leadership initiatives that align with long-term organizational goals and contributes to sustainable development across the nation.