Effects of Classical Management Theories on the Current Management Practice in Nigeria

Abstract

The study of the "Effects of Classical Management Theories on Current Management Practice in Nigeria" was carried out. This was to assess the extent of application of the Scientific Management, Administrative and Bureaucratic Theories in Nigerian Organizations and the effects of the application to the progress, development and growth of these Organizations. Descriptive research method, especially survey research was employed in carrying out the study. Three hypotheses were tested using chi square and linear regression.  The population of the study was 320 workers of the ANAMBRA MOTOR MANUFACTURING COMPANY LIMITED (ANAMMCO), EMENITE and NIGER GAS. A sample size of 177 was generated using the Taro yamene  formular for sample size determination, stratified sampling technique was used in the distribution of the questionnaire for data collection. Frequency tables using simple percentages were used for analyses of the data generated. The study revealed that the application of the Scientific management. Administrative and Bureaucratic Theories in management of various organizations contributed to waste, labour turnover, layoff of workers, slow pace of organizational growth and development and low productivity in the organizations. The study concluded that given the present performances of the Nigerian Organizations, more need to be done in the way the classical management theories were applied, such that workers will be more motivated to perform in a conducive work environment. It was recommended that, for organizations to achieve the objectives of effective and efficient productivity, they must understand, accommodate, embrace and promote people dynamics (nature, needs, values, motivations and general cultural political environmental differences). Organizations should also review periodically their rules, regulations and manuals to ensure current trends in the business environment. Finally, that organization should allow for initiative, innovations and workers participation in decision making.

Keywords: classical management, management practice, Nigeria