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VOL. 1, ISSUE 1 (2025)
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale businesses in Port Harcourt: An empirical study
Authors
Ossai Mariam Ogbugwa
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented
challenges to economies worldwide, with small-scale businesses in developing
urban centers being particularly vulnerable. This study examines the impact of
the COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale businesses in Port Harcourt city, a major
commercial hub in Nigeria. The primary objective is to empirically analyze how
the pandemic affected business operations, revenue, employment, and overall
sustainability within this sector. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data was
collected through structured questionnaires administered to a representative
sample of small business owners across various industries, complemented by
in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using statistical tools,
while qualitative insights provided contextual understanding. Findings reveal
significant disruptions including decreased customer demand, supply chain
interruptions, and cash flow challenges, leading to reduced incomes and
workforce layoffs. Additionally, many businesses faced difficulties in
accessing government support and adapting to digital alternatives. The study
concludes that the pandemic has critically undermined the resilience of
small-scale businesses in Port Harcourt, highlighting the urgent need for
targeted policy interventions such as improved financial aid, capacity building
for digital adoption, and robust support systems to enhance business continuity
in future crises. These insights contribute to a better understanding of
pandemic-induced economic vulnerabilities in urban Nigerian settings and offer
guidance for stakeholders aiming to bolster small business sustainability.
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Pages:13-16
How to cite this article:
Ossai Mariam Ogbugwa "Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale businesses in Port Harcourt: An empirical study". International Journal of Current Studies, Vol 1, Issue 1, 2025, Pages 13-16
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