DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION PRACTICES AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON EMPLOYEE COMMITMENT AND INNOVATION OF HOTELS IN RIVERS STATE

Abstract

This study examined the influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices on employee commitment and innovation in hotels in Rivers State. The research aimed to determine whether DEI practices significantly affect employee loyalty and the capacity for innovative service delivery in the hospitality sector. The population comprised 86 three-star hotels in Rivers State, from which Purposive sampling was used to select three respondents from each hotel, resulting in 183 participants. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire employing a five-point Likert scale and analyzed using multiple regression analysis with SPSS version 27. Findings revealed that DEI practices have a significant positive effect on employee commitment and innovation individually, and jointly predict both outcomes. The study concludes that DEI practices are critical drivers of workforce loyalty and creative performance in hotels. It recommends institutionalizing DEI policies, promoting inclusive leadership and training, and fostering a culture that leverages employee diversity for innovative solutions. These interventions can enhance organizational competitiveness, service quality, and sustainable workforce development in the hospitality industry.