Effect of Corporate Planning on Organizational Performance and Crime Prevention among Selected Small and Medium Enterprises in Kano State

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of corporate planning on organizational performance and crime reduction among SMEs in Kano, Nigeria. Corporate planning guides strategic decision-making and resource allocation, yet its implementation among SMEs remains challenging due to persistent performance issues and increasing vulnerability to criminal activities.The study adopted a descriptive research design with stratified random sampling, selecting 320 managers from 1,808 SMEs (SMEDAN, 2019). Data were collected via questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS. Descriptive statistics profiled respondents, while inferential statistics (regression, Pearson correlation) tested hypotheses at 0.05 significance level.Findings reveal that 76.3% of SMEs set measurable goals and 53.1% have formal corporate planning processes. However, significant barriers impede implementation: lack of skilled personnel (35%), limited financial resources (30%), and short-term operational focus (20%). The analysis confirms corporate planning significantly affects financial growth and demonstrates significant relationships with improved service delivery and crime prevention.The study concludes that corporate planning is vital for enhancing SME performance and reducing criminal activity vulnerability in Kano, but its potential is constrained by managerial, financial, and knowledge limitations. Recommendations include organizing capacity-building workshops for SME managers, institutionalizing formal planning frameworks, enhancing policy support for financial resources and advisory services, and integrating security planning into corporate strategies. These measures are essential for fostering sustainable growth, improving SME competitiveness, and reducing criminal activities in the region.