Entrepreneurial Competitive Aggressiveness and Performance of Selected Small-Scale Enterprises in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the effect of entrepreneurial competitive aggressiveness on the performance of selected small-scale enterprises in Nigeria. Using a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from a population of 71,288 small scale enterprise operators, with a sample size of 399 selected through purposive sampling. Primary data were gathered via a structured questionnaire employing a five-point Likert scale to measure entrepreneurial competitive aggressiveness and business performance. The study tested its hypothesis using simple linear regression analysis at 5% significance level. Finding revealed that entrepreneurial competitive aggressiveness has a positive and significant effect on firm performance (β = 0.331, p = 0.000). The study concludes that adopting competitive entrepreneurial behaviors is critical for improving the success and growth of small-scale businesses in the region. It was recommended that small scale enterprise owners and managers actively cultivate and implement aggressive competitive strategies. By prioritizing bold market actions, quick responses to competitor moves, and consistent investment in marketing and innovation, these leaders can enhance their firms’ growth and profitability in increasingly competitive environments.