Human Resource Management Practices and Employee Performance in the Nigerian Health Sector: Evidence from Selected Public Hospitals in Enugu State (2020–2025)

Human resource management (HRM) practices are fundamental to improving employee performance and achieving quality healthcare delivery. In Nigeria, the health sector has experienced significant workforce challenges between 2020 and 2025, including shortages of skilled personnel, migration of healthcare professionals, inadequate motivation, and weak performance management systems. These challenges have adversely affected healthcare service delivery in public hospitals. This study examined the influence of human resource management practices on employee performance in selected public hospitals in Enugu State. Specifically, it investigated the effects of recruitment and selection, training and development, compensation and rewards, performance appraisal, employee welfare, and career development on employee performance. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to healthcare professionals and administrative staff. The findings indicate that effective HRM practices significantly enhance employee productivity, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and quality healthcare service delivery. The study concludes that strategic investment in human resource management is essential for strengthening Nigeria's health sector and recommends improved workforce planning, continuous professional development, competitive remuneration, and digital HR systems. These findings are consistent with recent evidence from Enugu State showing that staff orientation, employee welfare, and supportive HR policies improve healthcare employee performance.