Asian Research Journal of Current Science

Workplace belongingness is an important aspect of employees’ workplace experience because it reflects feeling accepted, valued, and included at work. This study examined workplace belongingness among clinical and non-clinical staff at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe State, Nigeria, with emphasis on workplace challenges, their perceived effects, and strategies for improvement. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted. The study population comprised 13,536 workers, and a sample size of 400 was stated in the manuscript. Questionnaire data and ten in-depth interviews were used for data collection, while 393 questionnaire responses were represented in the reported tables. Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, and chi-square testing, while qualitative data were analysed manually to complement the survey findings. Most respondents reported a positive sense of belonging at work; however, important challenges remained. The most frequently reported challenges included lack of support from management and lack of recognition for contributions, followed by limited opportunities for social interaction and cultural or values misalignment. Reported effects included reduced engagement or motivation, lower productivity, decreased job satisfaction, isolation, and increased stress or burnout. Respondents most frequently identified enhanced communication and feedback, recognition and appreciation programmes, career development resources, mentorship, and improved management support as strategies for strengthening belongingness. The findings indicate that supportive organisational practices, recognition, communication, and opportunities for development are important considerations for strengthening workplace belongingness in the hospital.