Abstract:
This study focused on the challenges of manpower development and utilization in the Rivers State Local Government system. The study was interested in examining the extent inadequate manpower development affected productivity in the Rivers State Local Government system; ascertaining whether manpower development programmes were based on the manpower needs of the Rivers State Local Government system; and determining whether educational training could serve as manpower development strategy to improve workers’ productivity in the Rivers State Local Government system between 1999 and 2011. Using the ex-post facto research design and the general systems theory as tool of analysis, the study concluded that the attention given to manpower development and utilization by the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission is minimal. The study among others recommended that there is need to give maximum attention to staff training and development by the management of the Local Government Service as it will enable employees to adapt well to the changing trends and increasing complexities in service delivery. Training needs should be considered on the basis of overall company objective. The goals of the local government should determine what training programmes are to be organized for staff. Staff should be motivated to add value to themselves and to their lives.
