Abstract:

The role of Micro, small and medium enterprises has become a fundamental aspect in promoting economic success, control, steadiness and wealth around the world today. The development and economic stability of every nation (be it developed and developing countries)  has been shaped and carved by men and women who have taken their destinies in their own hands by perceiving opportunities and risking their resources (money, machines, materials, men) in establishing and operating their own business. In Nigeria over the years, the role of Micro, small and medium enterprises has been neglected due to government insensitivity, insufficient funds, resources and low level of entrepreneurial skills. Though these problems have been associated with lack of accessibility to loan, poor infrastructural development/facilities, inadequate funding by the government. All these are indicators to acquiring the necessary skills and competencies needed for proper adaptation and integration within the environment of competitive rivalry. Hence, the objective of this study is to explore the relationship between MSMEs and employment generation in Abeokuta Metropolis, Ogun State, South-West, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was used for the study. The questionnaire was distributed to participants at Oke-Imosan, Idi-Aba, Olorunsogo, Amolaso, Onikolobo and Ita-eko in Abeokuta through their various Association of Tradesmen & Artisans. Thus, the sample size used for the study comprised valid 380 respondents who are always trying to do many different things at one time. The statistical tool for analyzing the data and interpretation was the chi-square (non-parametric) statistical technique and percentage counts. The study revealed that Abeokuta as a city is beleaguered and overwhelmed with high levels of unemployment, crime rate and poverty. The study revealed that lack of personal savings and resources, lack of knowledge and lending, inadequate infrastructural facilities, inability to take risk, poor entrepreneurial and management skills, constitute some of the factors affecting the development of MSMEs. This paper valued the development of MSMEs in Ogun State and put forward recommendations on how to improve upon the existing performance in order to attain the desired level of employment creation.