E-BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE IN NIGERIAN SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES: A REVIEW OF EXISTING LITERATURE
Keywords:
E-Business Intelligence,, SMEs,, Adoption,, Nigeria,, Transformation, DigitalAbstract
This systematic review consolidates research on e-business intelligence (EBI) among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria to address gaps in knowledge regarding its adoption, impact, and innovative application within this critical economic sector. The aim was to assess existing knowledge regarding adoption and impact, compare technological frameworks, identify barriers and enablers, examine the role of artificial intelligence and data analytics, and identify best practices in integration. A systematic review of empirical literature using qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods was conducted, focusing on technological, organizational, and environmental aspects within Nigerian SMEs. Results show that adoption rates are low to middle-level due to inadequate infrastructure, funding, and organisational capabilities. While emerging, the application of AI and sophisticated analytics remains underutilised. Existing technological frameworks range between simplistic business intelligence (BI) solutions and immature AI solutions, often lacking practical validation. Poor infrastructure, lack of skills, policy gaps, and varying organizational capabilities are the primary barriers. The application of e-business intelligence has a positive impact on decision-making, operational efficiency, and competitiveness, but implementation quality is a critical moderating factor. Furthermore, integration with organisational learning and digital transformation strategies is often inadequate. These findings highlight the importance of the interaction between technological, organisational and environmental factors in shaping EBI adoption in Nigerian SMEs. The review suggests that context-specific frameworks, enhanced policy interventions, and longitudinal research are needed to maximise the potential of e-business intelligence for sustainable growth of SMEs in the Nigerian market.
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