QUALITY OF WORKLIFE AND EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT IN SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES IN KOGI STATE

This study examined the relationship between Quality of Work Life (QWL) and employee engagement in selected Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Kogi State, Nigeria, including Nigo Rite Care Pharmacy Ltd, Dangote Cement, and PZ Cussons. The objectives of the study were to assess how QWL indices such as job satisfaction, career growth, and workplace safety influence employee engagement; to explore the relationship between work-life behavior, participation, and employee retention; and to determine the effect of autonomy, managerial feedback, and organizational climate on innovation and productivity. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected using structured questionnaires distributed to a sample of 278 employees, determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s sampling table. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed for analysis. Findings from the descriptive data showed a strong positive perception among employees regarding the influence of QWL and engagement on retention and performance. However, chi-square results indicated no statistically significant relationships between the variables. The study concludes that while QWL and engagement practices are valued by employees, they may not uniformly translate into statistically measurable outcomes across all SMEs. The study recommends that SMEs invest in structured QWL initiatives, promote participatory work environments, and foster a climate that supports innovation to enhance employee productivity and retention