Social Media Use and Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria: Lagos and Onitsha in Focus

This study examines the use of social media platforms - Facebook and Whatsapp - and how they support the growth of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in two major cities in Nigeria, Lagos and Onitsha. Hinged on the Diffusion of Innovations and Technological Acceptance Models, it uses descriptive survey research design to study 300 SMEs in the selected areas using the questionnaire instrument. Findings reveal the preponderance of Whatsapp usage, leading to greater market accessibility and enhanced customer relations. These outcomes have significant effects on the development of the SMEs. In spite of the potentials for increased visibility of the two interactive social platforms, many business owners are oblivious of their existence! They would need to be enlightened about the usage of social media as a component of their economic growth strategy.