Entrepreneurial Orientation and Performance of Small Enterprises in Minna, Metropolis

Abstract

Nigeria is transitioning towards a private-sector-driven economy, where micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in creating job opportunities, alleviating poverty, increasing internally generated revenue, and boosting foreign exchange in the international market. Literature has shown that a link exists between Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) and enterprise performance, though the significance and direction of such relationships vary contextually. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between EO and small business performance in Minna Metropolis. Primary data was collected from 53 private secondary schools in the study area using a structured questionnaire. The data generated was analysed using both descriptive statistics and Pearson Correlation. The findings revealed that innovativeness (0.230), risk-taking propensity (0.188), and autonomy (0.101) had a significant positive relationship with student enrollment in private secondary schools. In contrast, proactiveness (-0.137) and competitive aggressiveness (-0.003) showed an insignificant inverse relationship with student enrollment in Minna Metropolis. The study, therefore, recommends adopting EO practices in private secondary schools in the study area to enhance their enrollment capabilities.