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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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