Applying a systematic review approach in investigating credit access for small scale enterprises in Nigeria

Abstract

Credit access among small-scale enterprises (SSEs) has been very difficult despite the increase in the demand of what they produce and the expansion in their activities. This paper review aimed at applying a systematic review approach to investigate available empirical evidences on credit access for small scale enterprises in Nigeria using electronic databases such as Wiley,
Emerald and ProQuest. Following the structure of searching process and eligibility criteria for inclusion and exclusion of the studies, thirteen studies were found to focus on Africa, seven studies on West Africa while four studies focused on Nigeria. The studies of Nigeria mainly focused on agro-based sectors and neglected other sectors especially the non-agriculture. Thus,
further studies need to be carried out to include other sectors and to replicate the current study in order to provide more information that could be used by both government and stakeholders to address financial challenges facing small scale enterprises and credit markets in Nigeria. It is recommended that, there is a need to redesign policy to stimulate financial inclusion of small businesses with a view to improve their credit accessibility in the country.