Sustainable Business Strategies and Competitive Advantage: The Role of Climate Change Adaptation in Emerging Markets: A Case Study of North Central Nigeria

This study investigates the relationship between sustainable business strategies, climate change adaptation, and competitive advantage in emerging markets, with a focus on North Central Nigeria. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys, interviews, and case studies to assess how businesses respond to climate-related challenges. Findings reveal that many firms have begun integrating sustainability practices such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly innovations to mitigate climate risks. However, adoption levels remain uneven due to financial constraints, limited awareness, and inadequate policy support. The results further demonstrate that businesses actively engaging in climate adaptation strategies experience improved market positioning, resilience, and stakeholder trust, thereby enhancing their competitive advantage. Government policies, technological innovation, and collaborative networks are identified as critical enablers, while weak regulatory enforcement and infrastructural gaps serve as persistent barriers. The study concludes that fostering climate-resilient business models is essential for long-term sustainability in the region and recommends targeted policy interventions, capacity building, and private–public partnerships to strengthen resilience and competitiveness in North Central Nigeria.