Abstract

Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria play a critical role in economic growth, employment generation, and poverty alleviation. However, these businesses are highly vulnerable to economic disruptions such as currency devaluation, inflation, policy instability, and global shocks like the COVID-19 pandemic. This study proposes a framework for developing resilient business models that enhance the adaptability and sustainability of Nigerian SMEs in the face of economic uncertainties. The framework integrates strategic agility, digital transformation, financial literacy, and risk management to mitigate vulnerabilities and foster long-term growth. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative case studies and quantitative surveys to assess the resilience levels of SMEs across various sectors. The findings indicate that most Nigerian SMEs lack structured risk mitigation strategies, relying instead on reactive measures that often lead to business failure. To address these challenges, this study develops a resilience framework incorporating proactive financial planning, adaptive business strategies, and digital integration. The framework emphasizes the role of digital transformation, including e-commerce adoption, cloud computing, and data analytics, in enhancing operational efficiency and market reach. Furthermore, financial literacy and risk management training are proposed as essential components to help SMEs navigate economic disruptions effectively. The proposed framework also highlights the importance of government policies and private sector support in fostering a resilient SME ecosystem. Recommendations include targeted financial interventions, regulatory reforms, and capacity-building programs to improve SME competitiveness. By leveraging a structured resilience framework, Nigerian SMEs can transition from reactive survival strategies to proactive business continuity planning. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing a contextualized model for enhancing SME resilience in developing economies. Future research should explore sector-specific resilience strategies and the role of artificial intelligence in SME risk management.