A lack of policy implementation, low morale, and the need for more effective engagement with administrators and workers have forced the Umunneochi Local Government Area (LGA) of Nigeria to explore effective strategies to improve its efficacy. A preliminary investigation 6 months after the introduction of employee empowerment showed that although workers wanted more decision-making authority and autonomy, administrative personnel do not have a clear understanding of employee empowerment and how it can be achieved. This descriptive case study investigated how two aspects of employee empowerment might improve administrator's efficacy in the Umunneochi LGA: the degree to which the concept is understood and the ability of administrators to implement the concept. Data from 140 written surveys were benchmarked by comparing scores to established indicators of employee empowerment. These benchmarked data were then compared to the themes that emerged from 10 in-depth interviews using the constant comparative method and these themes were then compared to the key themes emergent in the employee empowerment literature as a means of validating findings. The lack of formal education of some LGA administrators and the willingness of the dominant coalition to transfer authority were identified as barriers to understanding and implementing empowerment. It is recommended that the LGA work environment be structured in a way that links the concept of empowerment to training, awareness, top management development, and periodical performance review by an external body. From a social change perspective, the LGA may operate more effectively with increased job satisfaction, and a broadening of administrators' understanding of empowerment.