Nigerian Scholar, Olufunke A. Alabi, Contributing to Green HRM Research at Teesside University, UK

In an era where sustainability is becoming central to business success, a Nigerian scholar, Olufunke A. Alabi, is making significant contribution in her research on Green Human Resource Management (GHRM). As part of her Master’s degree at Teesside University’s International Business School, UK, Alabi has delivered an engaging study on how eco-friendly HR strategies influence employee retention—especially amongst outsourced workers. Her work is shedding new light on sustainable business practices and positioning her as a thought leader in an increasingly important global conversation.

Alabi’s research, titled The Influence of Green Human Resource Management Practices on Employee Retention Amongst Outsourced Employees in Nigeria, explores whether organizations that integrate sustainability into their HR policies experience higher employee loyalty and lower turnover rates. According to her, the study was driven by the pressing issue of job instability among outsourced employees, who often feel disconnected from their employers and lack long-term career security.

“Retention is a major issue in outsourcing, especially in Nigeria, where temporary employment is common. Many outsourced employees feel like outsiders within their own organizations. I wanted to find out if adopting green HRM practices—such as rewarding sustainability efforts and involving employees in green initiatives, could make them feel more valued and improve retention rates.”

Pioneering Research with Eye-Opening Findings.

Alabi’s study, which surveyed 100 randomly selected outsourced employees in Nigeria, produced significant findings that challenge traditional approaches to employee retention. She discovered that Green Pay and Reward – where employees are compensated for their contributions to sustainability, and Green Involvement – where employees participate in a company’s environmental initiatives, positively impact employee retention.

“When employees see that their company values sustainability and rewards them for being part of it, they feel a stronger sense of belonging. It’s not just about being paid well—it’s about knowing that your work has a meaningful impact,” Alabi explains.

However, not all green HRM strategies were effective. The study found that Green Recruitment, Green Training, and Green Performance Management did not significantly influence retention rates. This challenges the assumption that hiring employees with eco-conscious values or providing sustainability training alone can boost loyalty.

“This was an unexpected discovery, but it makes sense. If employees don’t see clear benefits—such as career growth, incentives, or involvement in decision-making, then just being part of a green organization won’t necessarily make them stay,” she says.

A Global and Local Impact:

Alabi’s research aligns with the Social Exchange Theory, which argues that employees reciprocate positive workplace experiences with commitment, and the Ability-Motivation-Opportunity (AMO) Theory, which suggests that employees perform better when given meaningful work, motivation, and opportunities for career advancement.

The study’s practical implications are significant, especially for Nigeria’s outsourcing sector, which is plagued by high employee turnover. Alabi recommends that companies looking to retain their outsourced workforce should go beyond basic salaries and focus on recognition, green incentives, and participatory engagement in sustainability initiatives.

“Many Nigerian companies are embracing sustainability at the corporate level, but they need to integrate it into their people management strategies. Employees don’t just want to work for a company that promotes green practices—they want to be actively involved and rewarded for it.”

Furthermore, Olufunke A. Alabi’s research holds immense value for businesses in Nigeria and beyond. Her work proves that sustainability is more than just an environmental concern—it is a strategic tool for improving workplace culture and retaining talent.

Her success at Teesside University’s International Business School is yet another testament to the exceptional contributions of Nigerians on the global stage. She encourages Nigerian students and professionals to pursue research that can create real-world change.

“We have the talent, the knowledge, and the ability to drive innovation both at home and abroad. I hope my work inspires more Nigerians to explore sustainable business solutions that benefit both employees and organizations.”

As more companies worldwide shift toward sustainability-driven models, Alabi’s research is a game-changer, proving that green HRM is not just about protecting the planet—it’s about building a future where employees see sustainability not just as a corporate initiative, but as a career-enhancing opportunity.