A new study from the American University of Nigeria (AUN) has revealed that a company’s ability to learn and share knowledge—not just capital or location—is the most critical driver of business success in developing economies. Published in the SN Business & Economics journal, the research was co-authored by Theoneste Manishimwe, Fahad Abdulrahman, Ahmed Umar Alkali, and Lukman Raimi of AUN.
The study, titled “Influence of Organizational Learning Capability on the Competitive Advantage of Entrepreneurial Firms: A Resource-Based Perspective,” focuses on Adamawa State’s growing food and beverage industry. It found that firms with strong learning cultures consistently outperform competitors by effectively acquiring and disseminating knowledge across all levels of the organization.
The research explains that businesses that actively seek new ideas, technologies, and market information—and ensure that such knowledge flows efficiently between employees and management—are better positioned to seize emerging opportunities and respond swiftly to market challenges. This internal agility enables them to stay ahead of rivals while improving operational efficiency.
Drawing on data gathered from 255 managers, owners, and directors, the study provides a practical framework for business leaders in the region. It recommends investing in structured training programs, strengthening internal communication, and establishing management systems that reward adaptability and continuous improvement.
In a region where small and medium enterprises form the backbone of the economy, these findings present a clear roadmap for sustainable growth and competitiveness. The study reinforces that knowledge, when effectively managed and shared, can be just as valuable as any physical asset in driving long-term business success.
Reported by Halima A. Muhammad