The objective of this research is to draw attention to the importance of certain factors in motivating employees in Nigeria. Specifically, the study sought to describe the ranked importance of the following seven motivating factors: (a) job security, (b) personal loyalty to employees, (c) interesting work, (d) good working conditions, (e) good wages, (f) promotions and growth in the organization, and (g) full appreciation of work done. The 15 companies selected from Oyo, Kwara, Osun and Ogun States of Nigeria are mid-sized companies that involved in Educational Consultancy, Hotel and Catering Services, Transportation services, Retail services and Manufacturing. Data were collected through a well-structured questionnaire delivered to the employees of the companies.

Findings of the study suggest that good working condition, interesting work, and good pay are key factors to higher employee motivation. Purposefully designed reward systems that include job enlargement, job enrichment, promotions, internal and external stipends, monetary, and non-monetary compensation should be considered. This will help the employer identify, recruit, employ, train, and retain a productive workforce.