Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between emotional intelligence and self-efficacy has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Selected Public Universities in Nigeria where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of Selected Public Universities in Nigeria, 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 emotional intelligence on self-efficacy, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While emotional intelligence is widely discussed in policy and industry circles, empirical evidence on its actual effect on self-efficacy within Selected Public Universities in Nigeria remains sparse and, in places, contradictory. This lack of localized, rigorous evidence makes it difficult for decision-makers to know with confidence whether current approaches to emotional intelligence are helping or hindering self-efficacy — a gap this study sets out to close.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Emotional Intelligence on self-efficacy in Selected Public Universities in Nigeria.
2. To assess the extent to which emotional intelligence influences self-efficacy within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with emotional intelligence in relation to self-efficacy.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing emotional intelligence in order to improve self-efficacy.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of emotional intelligence on self-efficacy in Selected Public Universities in Nigeria?
2. To what extent does emotional intelligence influence self-efficacy within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with emotional intelligence in relation to self-efficacy?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize emotional intelligence in order to improve self-efficacy?

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 self-efficacy. For managers and practitioners within Selected Public Universities in Nigeria, the study provides practical insight into how emotional intelligence can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on psychology 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 study confines itself to Selected Public Universities in Nigeria, focusing specifically on how emotional intelligence relates to self-efficacy within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.