BIJED

Abstract

This conceptual paper explores how ethical leadership and conflict management strategies predict teachers' task performance in public secondary schools in Delta State, Nigeria. Ethical leadership, characterized by integrity, fairness, and a concern for the well-being of all stakeholders, has been shown to foster trust, motivation, and accountability among teachers. Likewise, effective conflict management strategies contribute to a harmonious work environment, reducing stress and enhancing collaboration. Through a comprehensive review of recent literature (2015–2024), this paper critically examines the relationship between these variables and offers recommendations for educational policymakers, administrators, and stakeholders in Delta State’s secondary schools. The paper proposes that educational policymakers and school administrators in Delta State should adopt a leadership approach grounded in ethical principles. Also, training programs should be designed to equip school leaders with the necessary skills to handle conflicts effectively, using strategies that promote fairness, collaboration, and transparency; and that future research should explore the specific challenges faced by school leaders in implementing these strategies in resource-constrained environments like Delta State.