While the ligand provides flexibility and adaptability through its chelating properties, the Co (II) complex's high-spin configuration results in weaker ligand field stabilization compared to Ni (II). This weaker coordination reduces the complex's ability to effectively stabilize intermediates, increasing the energy required for catalytic turnover. The Ni (II) complex, benefiting from a stronger ligand field interaction provided by the Schiff base, maintains a thermodynamically favorable pathway by effectively mediating electron transfer and lowering the activation energy. This synergistic interplay between the Schiff base ligand's coordination effects and the intrinsic electronic properties of Ni (II) underscores its superior catalytic performance over Co (II).