It only takes one explosion to scatter not just lives but livelihoods. Abuja, Nigeria’s seat of power, just got a grim reminder of that reality. When a suicide bomber detonated himself in a failed attack on a military cantonment, the physical damage may have been contained — but the psychological and economic aftershocks are just beginning to ripple through the city.
While big government officials retreat behind fortified gates and tinted convoys, it’s the small business owners — the suya seller near the barrack gate, the woman with a kiosk selling recharge cards, the Bolt driver trying to make ends meet — who bear the brunt of such insecurity.
This isn’t just about bombs and bullets; it’s about bread and butter.
As Nigeria’s capital returns to its anxious rhythm, one question lingers like the smoke in the air: how long can small businesses survive when terror knocks at their doorstep?
Abuja, often perceived as a bastion of security, now grapples with the unsettling reality that even its most fortified areas are vulnerable.
For the city’s entrepreneurs and small business owners, this incident is more than a security breach; it’s a potential catalyst for economic instability.
1. Decline In Consumer Confidence
In the aftermath of such attacks, consumer behavior often shifts dramatically. Fear and uncertainty can lead to reduced foot traffic in markets and shopping areas, as residents opt to stay indoors.
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This decline in patronage directly affects daily sales and revenue for small businesses.
2. Disruption Of Supply Chains
Heightened security measures and roadblocks, while necessary, can impede the flow of goods and services.
Delays in deliveries, increased transportation costs, and logistical challenges can strain the operations of SMEs, many of which rely on timely restocking to meet customer demands.
3. Increased Operational Costs
In response to security threats, businesses may need to invest in additional safety measures—surveillance systems, security personnel, and insurance premiums.
For small businesses operating on tight margins, these added expenses can be burdensome.
4. Potential For Property Damage
While the recent attack did not target commercial establishments, the unpredictability of such incidents means that businesses could be collateral damage in future events.
The financial implications of property damage, coupled with potential inventory losses, can be devastating for SMEs.
5. Challenges In Accessing Financial Support
Historically, victims of such incidents have faced difficulties in obtaining timely assistance. For instance, after the 2014 Emab Plaza bombing in Abuja, many affected businesses struggled to receive adequate support to rebuild.
This lack of institutional support can hinder recovery efforts for small businesses.
The Challenge
The resilience of Abuja’s small business community is commendable, but resilience alone cannot offset the multifaceted challenges posed by security threats.
A collaborative approach involving government intervention, community support, and proactive security measures is essential to safeguard the economic vitality of the city’s SMEs.
