EFFECT OF UNEMPLOYMENTON SMALL SCALE ENTERPRISES IN NIGERIA

This study evaluated the effect of unemployment on small scale enterprises. To achieve theobjectives ofthis study, annual time-series data on key variables were sourced from CentralBank of Nigeria (CBN) Statistical Bulletin from 1991 to 2022. The data were analysed using•descriptive statistics, the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) bounds test was used to assessthe long-run relationship between the variables. The results showed that unemployment has apositive and significant impact on small scale enterprises in Nigeria. Findings revealed that,unemployment appears to contribute to the establishment of small business enterprises inNigeria. It revealed that, if more commercial banks credits are made available to investors insmall scale enterprises, the sector will perform bettenand thus reduce the rate of unemploymentin particular, and enhance the growth ofthe economy. Based on the findings of this study, thisstudy recommenided that the Nigerian government formulate and implement population controlpolicies as well as policies geared towards providiny a conducive business environment whereSSEs can thrive and also provide adequate infrastructure to ensure an increase in the ease ofdoing business index in Nigeria.