Navigating the Labyrinth: An Examination of Government Policies and Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria

Ndubuisi; Ohakalam Charles; Aroge; Peter Azamzu; Kingsley Nwagu

doi:10.56201/wjeds.v11.no2.2026

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Navigating the Labyrinth: An Examination of Government Policies and Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria

Ndubuisi, Ohakalam Charles, Aroge, Peter Azamzu, Kingsley Nwagu

Abstract

Entrepreneurship is widely recognized as a critical engine for economic diversification, innovation, and job creation, particularly in developing nations like Nigeria. In response to persistent economic challenges, including high unemployment rates and over-reliance on oil revenue, successive Nigerian governments have instituted a plethora of policies aimed at fostering entrepreneurial activity. This study provides a critical examination of the impact of these government policies on entrepreneurship development in Nigeria. Utilizing a mixed- methods approach, the research integrates quantitative survey data from 385 entrepreneurs across Lagos, Abuja, and Kano with qualitative insights from 25 in-depth interviews with business owners, policymakers, and industry association leaders. The findings reveal a significant disconnect between policy intent and practical implementation. While policies such as the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Survival Fund and the establishment of the Development Bank of Nigeria have provided essential, albeit temporary, relief and credit access, their impact is severely undermined by bureaucratic bottlenecks, inconsistent policy application, corruption, and a lack of adequate infrastructure. The study concludes that the current policy landscape, despite its good intentions, often creates a complex "labyrinth" that hinders rather than helps entrepreneurs. It recommends a shift from episodic policy announcements to a coherent, stable, and implementation-focused framework that prioritizes infrastructure development, institutional transparency, and stakeholder co-creation to unlock the true potential of Nigerian entrepreneurship.

Keywords

Government PolicyEntrepreneurshipNigeriaMSMEsPolicy ImplementationEconomic Development

References

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Navigating the Labyrinth: An Examination of Government Policies and Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria

Abstract

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