Influence of Organisational Culture and Alienation on Employees’ Turnover Intention In Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme (Ogadep), Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of organisational culture and job alienation on employee turnover intention at the Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme (OGADEP) in Abeokuta, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, with data collected from 125 employees selected through simple random sampling using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed a mature workforce, with the largest age group being 41–50 years (31.2%). The respondents were predominantly female (53.6%), married (72.0%), held a B.Sc degree (52.0%), and occupied senior-level positions (68.8%). Results indicated that while organisational culture was perceived positively regarding professional growth (Mean=3.48), weaknesses in strategic vision (Mean=3.07) were apparent. Regarding job alienation, while a majority (58.4%) scored in a favourable, low-alienation range, a substantial 41.6% of respondents reported unfavourable levels, experiencing feelings of powerlessness and meaninglessness. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant, strong negative relationship between organisational culture and turnover intention (r=-0.667, p=0.039) and a significant positive relationship between job alienation and turnover intention (r=0.265, p=0.003). In contrast, Chi-square tests showed no significant association between personal characteristics, such as age (χ²=6.361, p>0.05) and sex (χ²=0.329, p>0.05) and turnover intention. The study concluded that a positive organisational culture reduces the intention to leave, while job alienation, affecting a notable portion of the workforce, increases it. It is recommended that OGADEP focus on strengthening its culture to improve employee engagement and retention.