INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURES ON SUSTAINABILITY OF MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN MINNA METROPOLIS

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are vital in driving economic growth. In Nigeria, manufacturing firms face sustainability challenges influenced by socioeconomic infrastructure. This study explores how infrastructure- electricity supply, road transport network, and information and communication technology (ICT) impacts the sustainability of manufacturing firms in Minna metropolis. A survey of 109 registered operating MSMEs was conducted, with multiple linear regression analysis applied. The results show a positive relationship between infrastructure and firm sustainability, with electricity and ICT significantly impacting manufacturing MSME's sustainability. Descriptive statistics reveal that 75.2% of respondents were male, with an average age of 40, and 63.3% were micro-firms. The regression model (R = 0.424, R² = 0.180, F = 7.675, p = 0.000) underscores the importance of socio-economic infrastructures. The study recommends that firms invest in alternative infrastructure solutions and that the government subsidize ICT to improve affordability and enhance the long-term sustainability of manufacturing MSMEs in Nigeria.