Government Support, Financial Inclusion and SMEs Performance in Nigeria – A Conceptual Framework and Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fujafr-2026.v4i1.387.421-430Keywords:
financial Inclusion, SME performance, Government supportAbstract
Purpose: This study aims to examine the interaction between financial inclusion and SME performance, assess how government support can be integrated to strengthen this relationship, and propose a conceptual framework. This is necessitated by the rapid expansion of digital financial services and fintech innovations, which have dramatically altered Nigeria's financial inclusion landscape over the past decade.
Methodology: The study employed a literature review to evaluate and synthesise existing knowledge, identify gaps, and develop a theoretical foundation.
Result and conclusion: Empirical findings have shown mixed results in the relationship between FI and SME performance. A theoretical gap was also identified. It can be concluded that, the findings suggest a moderating role for government support, which can improve the existing literature.
Implication of findings: Therefore, it is recommended that this proposed framework be tested empirically to provide an in-depth theoretical viewpoint.
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