Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between talent management and firm competitiveness has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of the Nigerian Capital Market where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of the Nigerian Capital Market, this relationship carries particular significance. Organizations in this setting operate under a distinct combination of economic, regulatory, and market conditions that may amplify or dampen the effect of talent management on firm competitiveness, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite a growing body of literature on talent management, there remains limited consensus on the precise nature of its relationship with firm competitiveness, particularly within the Nigerian Capital Market. Many organizations continue to make decisions about talent management without a clear, evidence-based understanding of how those decisions ultimately affect firm competitiveness. This gap between practice and empirical understanding is the central problem this study seeks to address.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Talent Management on firm competitiveness in the Nigerian Capital Market.
2. To assess the extent to which talent management influences firm competitiveness within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with talent management in relation to firm competitiveness.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing talent management in order to improve firm competitiveness.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of talent management on firm competitiveness in the Nigerian Capital Market?
2. To what extent does talent management influence firm competitiveness within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with talent management in relation to firm competitiveness?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize talent management in order to improve firm competitiveness?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to a range of stakeholders. For policymakers and regulators, the findings offer evidence to guide the design of frameworks that support healthier outcomes around firm competitiveness. For managers and practitioners within the Nigerian Capital Market, the study provides practical insight into how talent management can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on business administration by extending existing knowledge into a specific empirical context, and offers a reference point for future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

In terms of scope, this BSc study confines itself to the Nigerian Capital Market, focusing specifically on how talent management relates to firm competitiveness within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.