International Journal of Research in Business and Entrepreneurship Development
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Vol. 11 No. 3 (2026): July - September
Articles

An Evaluation of the Role of Small-Scale Businesses in Promoting Sustainable Development in Agbor, Delta State

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  • Oghenochuko, Richard Ohwona, Ph.D.,
  • Ewere, Success Obieze, Ph.D.

Published 2026-08-28

Keywords

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Abstract

This study examined the contribution of small-scale businesses to sustainable development in Agbor, Delta State, Nigeria. The research adopted a descriptive survey design and collected primary data from 50 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics. Specifically, frequency distributions, percentages, means, and standard deviations were used to summarize responses, while the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMC) was employed to test hypotheses. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between small-scale business activities and employment generation, indicating that these enterprises serve as vital sources of job creation in the local economy. The study also found a strong positive correlation between income creation by small-scale businesses and economic sustainability, demonstrating that increased business income enhances community welfare and local economic resilience. These results underscore the crucial role of small-scale enterprises as engines of inclusive growth and sustainable development in semi-urban areas like Agbor. The study concludes that empowering small-scale businesses through financial assistance, policy incentives, and capacity development is essential for promoting economic sustainability and achieving long-term community development.

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