Drivers of Implementing Sustainable Procurement in Small and Medium Enterprises in Bauchi State, NigeriaDrivers of Implementing Sustainable Procurement in Small and Medium Enterprises in Bauchi State, Nigeria

Abubakar Sadiq Ibrahim, Mohammed Mukhtar Musa, Moshood Adekunle Abioye

Abstract


Sustainable procurement has emerged as a strategic imperative for organizations seeking to align economic performance with environmental and social responsibility. Despite its growing relevance, the adoption of sustainable procurement practices among Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies remains limited due to various internal and external challenges. This study investigates the internal and external drivers influencing the adoption of sustainable procurement practices among SMEs in Bauchi State, Nigeria. Adopting a descriptive survey research design, the study targets active SMEs registered with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) and operating within Bauchi Metropolis for over three years. A structured questionnaire was administered to a sample of 70 SME owners and procurement personnel selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The findings reveal that internal factors such as leadership commitment, employee awareness, and financial capacity significantly influence adoption, while external drivers like government regulations, stakeholder pressure, and customer expectations also play critical roles. The study further identifies key barriers, including limited access to information, lack of regulatory incentives, and resistance to change, which hinder broader implementation of sustainability practices. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainability in procurement by providing empirical insights from a developing economy perspective. It offers practical recommendations for policymakers, business practitioners, and stakeholders to create enabling environments for SMEs through targeted policies, training, and support mechanisms. By addressing both internal and external drivers, the study emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to promoting sustainable procurement adoption that supports inclusive economic growth and environmental stewardship. 

Drivers of Implementing Sustainable Procurement in Small and Medium Enterprises in Bauchi State, Nigeria


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