Challenges and Prospects of SMEs and its impact on their survival in Nigeria's Dwindling economy

Abstract This researcher study attempted to evaluate the challenges, prospects and survival strategies of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria, using Abuja as a case study. The researcher made use of theoretical and empirical approach to examine the different sides of the discussion. It provides a relatively broad literature review of the challenges, prospects, government support efforts, and survival strategies for SMEs growth and survival in a thriving economy. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were presented in tables and analyzed using simple percentages, and the Z - test statistics of proportion technique in order to confirm the stated hypotheses. In the study it was found that the challenges of SMEs significantly affect the growth and development of SMEs. Government efforts were found to significantly affect the growth and development of SMEs in Nigeria.    TABLE OF CONTENT Title Page Declaration Certification Approval Page Dedication Acknowledgement Abstract Table of Contents
Chapter One  1.0 Introduction-------1 1.1 Background of the study------3 1.2 Statement of the Problem------4 1.3 Objective of the Study------5 1.4 Research Questions-------5 1.5 Research Hypothesis-------5 1.6 Significance of the Study------6 1.7 Scope of the Study-------6 1.8 Definition of Terms-------6 1.9 Structure and Organization of the Study----7 Chapter Two Literature Review 2.0 Introduction-------9 2.2 Conceptual Framework of the study-----9 2.2.1 Definition of SME by Nigerian Institutions---11 2.2.2 Concept of Small-Scale Business-----12 2.2.3 Types and Classification of Micro and Small Scale Enterprises-13 2.2.4 Characteristics of SMEs in Nigeria -----15 2.2.5 Importance of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises to National Development-----------16 2.2.6 Rationale for Emphasizing Micro and Small Scale Enterprise in Nigeria’s Industrial Development-------17 2.2.7 Challenges/Problems of SMEs in Nigeria -----19 2.2.8 Government Efforts/Participation in the Growth and Development of SMEs in Nigeria------24 2.2.9 Prospects of SMEs in Nigeria-----27 2.2.10 Major Business Strategies for Small and Medium Restaurant Business in Abuja -------31 2.4Theoretical Framework of the Study----38
Chapter Three Research Methodology 3.1 Area of Study -------40 3.2 Research Design and Source of Data -----40 3.3 Population of the Study and Sample Size----40 3.4 Research Instrument and Technique-----40 3.5 Procedures for Data Collection and Analysis----40 3.5 Limitations of the Study -------41
Chapter Four Data Presentation and Analysis 4.1 Data Presentation and Analysis------41 4.2 Test of Hypothesis-------51 4.3 Discussion of Findings------55
Chapter Five Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations  5.1 Summary--------57 5.2 Conclusion--------57 5.3 Recommendations-------58 Bibliography--------60 Appendix--------63 -66