Effect of Individual Entrepreneurial Orientation on Entrepreneurial Intention Amongst Undergraduate Students in Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation (IEO) and entrepreneurial intention (EI) amongst undergraduate students in Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey approach was used in this study, in which data was gathered all at once. The sample size of the research is 365 students of Ahmadu Bello University's business school in Zaria. The three (3) dimensions of IEO (Innovativeness (INN), Proactiveness (PRO) and Competitive aggressiveness (COA) survey) was taken from the study of Fatima and Bilal (2019). The data were analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling (SmartPLS). Cronbach's alpha (CA), composite reliability (CR), average variance extracted (AVE), and factor loadings of each measurement are examined. The findings of the study revealed that Competitive aggressiveness (COA) has an insignificant effect on entrepreneurial intention (EI). Innovativeness (INN) has a significant effect on entrepreneurial intention (EI). And Proactiveness (PRO) has a significant effect on entrepreneurial intention (EI). The results of the study will equip entrepreneurship educators and counsellors even government with the knowledge they need to mentor and counsel students who show an interest in starting their own business. Based on the findings, the study recommends that to help student-led firms, spot new trends, and create creative business solutions, universities should incorporate innovation-driven entrepreneurship programs, give access to start-up incubators, and promote entrepreneurship research and development. Also, investigate whether business-friendly policies like start-up grants, tax incentives can encourage entrepreneurial Intention among university students.