Microfinance Banks Dynamics Effect on Small-Scale Enterprise Development in Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the effect of Microfinance Banks on the development of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in Nigeria. This study was specifically meant to assess the extent to which microfinance banks loans and advances, investments and deposit mobilization affect the productivity of SMEs in Nigeria. The study employed the ex-pose facto research design. Time series data were collected from the CBN statistical Bulletin and SMEDAN annual publications using the desk survey method. The data were analysed using the Vector Error Correction Mechanism. Result from the analyses revealed that Microfinance banks loans and advances and investments do not have any significant effect on SMEs’ productivity in Nigeria both in the long run and short run period. The study further reveals that microfinance banks’ deposit mobilization does not have any significant effect on SMEs’ productivity in Nigeria in the long run, however, within the short run period microfinance banks deposits mobilization has a significant effect on SMEs’ productivity. Based on these findings, it was recommended that MFBs should lighten the condition for lending and increase the duration of lending to their customers, spreading the repayment over a long period of time to assist SMEs meet their funding needs. Also, the Government and its institutions, including the Central Bank, should work in concert to promote the sector, as a means of mobilizing domestic savings, widening the financial system, promoting enterprises, creating employment and income and reducing poverty.