Gauging the effect of diversity on team members’ conflict: A case study of mining sector in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the effect of diversity on team members' conflict, a case study of mining sector in Nigeria. The study objectives were to ascertain how various measures of diversity affect conflict among team members. The study employed the use of primary data collected through questionnaires which were distributed among staff in Delta Steel Company's Warri plant, also known as Premium Steel and Mines Limited (PSML), which is a significant steel manufacturing facility in Nigeria. The study was anchored on the unitary and conflict theory. Data analysis involves the use of simple percentages and frequencies to characterize responses, as well as descriptive and inferential statistics to examine research hypotheses. The findings revealed that demographic diversity, education and work experience diversity and cognitive and personality diversity maintained significant effect on team members' conflict. While language and religion diversity recorded an insignificant effect on team members conflict in the mining sector in Nigeria. The study therefore recommended that mining sector firms in Nigeria adopt a proactive approach to diversity management. However, organizations should also invest in training and communication strategies that help bridge differences in education, work experiences, cognitive styles, and personality traits among team members. By promoting effective conflict resolution skills and creating an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated, these firms can harness the richness of diversity while minimizing potential sources of discord, ultimately enhancing teamwork and productivity in the mining sector.