Impact of Government Policies on MSMEs Sustainable Wealth and Employment Generation in Nigeria

Authors

Adebowale AYOBADE

Department of Social Work, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Olufemi Muibi SAIBU

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Tajudeen Olalekan YUSUF

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Lukman Oyeyinka OYELAMI

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Sulaimon Olanrewaju ADEBIYI

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Olasunmbo Ayanfeoluwa OLUSANYA

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Umar Abubakar SALEH

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Matthew Ikechukwu OGBUAGU

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Joel Ede OWURU

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Elizabeth Folakemi AJAYI

Department of Economics, University of Lagos, Lagos (Nigeria)

Article Information

DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS.2026.1015EC0075

Subject Category: Economics

Volume/Issue: 10/15 | Page No: 1066-1078

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2026-07-02

Accepted: 2026-07-08

Published: 2026-08-01

Abstract

This study examines the impact of government policies on the job creation and wealth generation capacity of small-scale enterprises (SSEs) in Nigeria. Data from 1992 to 2022 was analyzed, revealing both short-term and long-term effects of government policies on SSE development. The study found that in the short run, the treasure bill rate, inflation, GDP growth per capita, and total savings negatively impact self-employment. However, in the long run, total government expenditure and credit to small-scale enterprises have a positive impact on self-employment. Government spending, particularly in infrastructure, public services, and development projects, stimulates economic growth, leading to increased demand for goods and services and increased self-employment opportunities. Credit to small businesses allows entrepreneurs to access funds, enabling them to invest in resources, resulting in business expansion and more opportunities for self-employment. The long-run impact highlights the sustainable and effective role of fiscal and credit policies in strengthening SSEs to create wealth and provide employment opportunities.

Keywords

government policy, SMEs development, pro-poor, wealth creation and self-employment

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