Evaluation of Emotional Intelligence and the Performance Ofsmall and Medium Enterprises in North Central, Nigeria

This study examined evaluation of emotional intelligence and performance of small and medium enterprises in North-Central, Nigeria. The study covered the period from 2021-2024. The study made use of survey research design. The population of the study consisted of 5,188,310 registered SMEs owners in North-Central, Nigeria which was sourced for last updated SMEDAN, 2020 report. The sample size of the study is 400 and was determined using Krejcie and Morgan sampling technique. The study made use of multiple regression analysis as the main estimation technique to test the hypotheses of this study with the aid of SPSS 21.0 statistical software. The study found that self-awareness has positive (0.396) and significant (0.001) effect on performance of SMEs in North-Central, Nigeria, the study also found that self-motivation has positive (0.241) and significant (0.006) effect on performance of SMEs in North-Central, Nigeria. The study concluded that emotional intelligence significantly impacts performance of small and medium enterprises in North-Central, Nigeria. Based on the findings and conclusion, the study recommends that SMEs implement regular self-assessment tools and feedback mechanisms to help employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement and also, conduct training sessions on emotional intelligence and self-awareness. SMEs should cultivate an environment that inspires and sustains motivation by Offer opportunities for career development and advancement to keep employees motivated and engaged.