INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XIII, Issue XII, December 2024
www.ijltemas.in Page 106
The Impact of Sustainability Leadership on Job Performance in
Nigeria University
Dr. Karimu Ishola
Federal University Gashua Yobe State, Nigeria
DOI : https://doi.org/10.51583/IJLTEMAS.2024.131210
Received: 24 December 2024; Accepted: 28 December 2024; Published: 08 January 2025
Abstract: In an era marked by escalating challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and social inequality, the imperative
for sustainable leadership practices has intensified. This study explores the impact of sustainability leadership on staff performance
in three major universities in Kano State Nigeria, and examines its influence on performance outcomes, societal impact, and
environmental sustainability. Employing a descriptive survey methodology, the research investigates the relationship between
sustainability leadership and organizational performance using two research instruments and formulating two hypotheses to test
these relationships. Data collected from 150 staff members were analysed using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient
to measure statistical associations between sustainability leadership and staff performance. The findings reveal significant and
positive correlations, indicating that universities led by sustainable leaders exhibit higher levels of employee job performance.
Additionally, substantial positive relationships were identified between sustainability leadership and the advancement of
environmental, social, and economic sustainability goals within these institutions. These results underscore the critical role of
sustainable leadership in enhancing organizational effectiveness and promoting sustainable development outcomes. Leaders who
integrate sustainability principles into their practices are well-positioned to drive positive impacts on employee engagement,
organizational reputation, and resilience amid global challenges. This study contributes to the understanding of how sustainability
leadership influences organizational performance in the Nigerian context, advocating for the adoption of sustainable leadership
strategies to achieve business success and broader societal benefits. Future research should further explore the mechanisms through
which sustainable leadership practices can be effectively implemented and scaled across diverse organizational settings, ensuring
sustained positive impacts on both organizational and societal outcomes.
Keywords: Sustainable leadership, organizational performance, Environmental sustainability, job performance
I. Introduction
In the context of the rapidly changing global environment, sustainability has emerged as a key element for long- term success in
organizations. Sustainability leadership focuses on incorporating environmental, social, and economic factors into decision-making,
making it an essential leadership strategy. This approach not only supports global sustainability objectives but also has the potential
to enhance job performance significantly.
Universities, as hubs of knowledge and innovation, play a crucial role in advancing sustainability efforts. However, in many
developing countries, including Nigeria, the adoption of sustainability leadership is still nascent. Exploring the impact of
sustainability leadership on job performance in these settings is crucial for crafting strategies that improve both employee well-
being and organizational effectiveness.
This study explores how sustainability leadership affects job performance across three Nigerian universities. By investigating this
relationship, the research adds to the expanding literature on sustainability leadership and its practical effects on job performance
within educational institutions.
II. Literature Review
The Concept of Sustainability Leadership
Sustainability leadership is defined by its ability to guide an organization toward achieving its goals while addressing environmental,
social, and economic challenges. Leaders who adopt sustainability practices prioritize long-term impacts over short-term gains,
fostering a culture of responsibility and ethical behaviour. According to Avolio and Gardner (2005), sustainability leaders inspire
and motivate employees by embedding sustainability into the organizational culture, which can lead to enhanced job performance.
Impact of Sustainability Leadership on Job Performance
Previous studies have highlighted the positive impact of sustainability leadership on job performance. Boiral (2007) found that
employees in organizations with strong sustainability leadership reported higher levels of job satisfaction and engagement. This
suggests that sustainability leadership can improve job performance by aligning employees' personal values with organizational