An Empirical Review of the Relationship between Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy, Self-Regulation and Individual Intention for Entrepreneurship in Nigeria

Abstract

Previous findings relating to entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and entrepreneurial self-regulation (ESR) effects on individual entrepreneurial intentions (IEI) remain inconsistent. While some studies established positive relationships among the variables, others find none of such connection. Regrettably, a contemporary study that determines such contradictions remains a missing link particularly in developing countries like Nigeria. This paper aims to determine the ESE, ESR and possible influence on entrepreneurial behaviour in the context of three selected universities in Nigeria. By data triangulating, a sample of 701 respondents comprising undergraduate and postgraduate students and lecturers of three selected universities in the Southwest, was used for this research. A response rate of 94% was achieved while in-depth interviews were conducted with nine (9) senior academic planning experts in the universities. Inferential statistics which include Pearson’s correlation, t-tests and regression analyses of quantitative data at the 0.05 level of significance and advanced total content analysis (TCA) of qualitative data, were used to address the research objectives. The results indicate a positive relationship within the context of the institutional framework for entrepreneurship schools training programmes. It is therefore, concluded that a blend of regular academic activity with some strategic standalone learning practices could influence graduates’ entrepreneurial intentions.