Entrepreneurial Leadership and Learning Orientation: A Transformative Journey of SMEs Growth

Despite the core role small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play in driving economic development and job creation across both developed and developing nations, the growth of SMEs has continued to decline especially in Nigeria. Therefore, this study examined the effect of entrepreneurial leadership and learning orientation components on SMEs growth in South-West Nigeria. Survey research design was adopted for this study. The population comprised 149,317 owners/managers of SMEs in South-West Nigeria. A sample size of 498 was determined using Cochran formula. Simple random sampling technique and a validated questionnaire was adopted for data collection. Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficients for the constructs ranged from 0.702 to 0.829. Findings from partial least squares structural equation modeling revealed that entrepreneurial leadership and learning orientation components had positive and significant effect on the growth of SMEs in 2 2 South-West Nigeria (Adj R = 0.934; F = 0.497; SRMR = 0.050, NFI = 0.767, p < 0.05). SMEs should synergistically integrate entrepreneurial, visionary leadership with a strong commitment to continuous learning and knowledge acquisition, fostering an adaptable, opportunity-oriented culture aligned for capitalizing on emerging trends and propelling sustained growth trajectories in dynamic competitive markets.