EFFECT OF MERGER ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE: A STUDY OF ACCESS BANK PLC, MAKURDI BRANCHES

Abstract: This study examined the effect of merger on organizational performance of Access Bank Plc branches in Makurdi, Benue State. Specifically, the study examined the effects of employee integration, organizational restructuring and cultural integration on organizational performance. The study adopted a survey research design, with a population of 72 staff of Access Bank Plc branches in Makurdi. Census sampling technique was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to all 72 staff. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and multiple regression analysis at the 5% level of significance. The findings revealed that employee integration had a significant positive effect on organizational performance (β = 0.352, p = 0.001). Organizational restructuring also had a significant positive effect on organizational performance (β = 0.291, p = 0.006), while cultural integration had a significant positive effect on organizational performance (β = 0.318, p = 0.002). The study concluded that effective employee integration, organizational restructuring and cultural integration are important for achieving improved organizational performance following a merger. The study recommends that management should strengthen employee integration through effective communication, training and team-building, ensure that restructuring is properly planned and communicated, and promote cultural integration through shared values, inclusive leadership and continuous engagement of employees.