Abstract
The main purpose of this research was to examine the entrepreneurial capacities that small businesses need to sustain innovation and support post-conflict rebuilding in Borno State, Nigeria. More specifically, it assessed the financial management and record-keeping skills essential for small firms to remain innovative and recover from the disruptions caused by conflict. Additionally, the study explored ways for entrepreneurs to gain and strengthen these crucial abilities. Two main research questions guided the investigation. A descriptive survey design was employed, covering all 235 small business owners identified for the study, so no sampling was necessary. For deeper insights, a focus group discussion was also organized with thirty participants selected intentionally—ten from each of Borno State's three senatorial districts. Data were gathered using two main instruments: the Entrepreneurial Skills Structured Questionnaire (ESSQ) and a Focus Group Discussion Guide (FGDG). To ensure the reliability of the ESSQ, a pilot test was carried out with twenty small business owners in Yobe State. Of the questionnaires distributed, 187 were returned, giving a response rate of 79.9%, supported by two field assistants. The instrument's internal consistency was verified using Cronbach's alpha, which produced an overall score of 0.83. The findings indicated that all fifteen aspects of financial management were considered highly important for effective planning, with an average score of 3.48 ± 0.58. The study also confirmed that record-keeping skills play a vital role, with mean scores of 3.33 ± 0.42 for smaller firms and 3.06 ± 0.31 for larger ones. Based on these outcomes, it was recommended that both governmental and non-governmental bodies should launch widespread training and awareness initiatives and provide experienced entrepreneurship mentors to help small business owners develop the necessary skills for sustainable innovation and long-term success.
Keywords: Entrepreneurial skills, Small Scale Business, Innovations, Conflict Recovery.
Publication Date: 2025-07-15