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Learning to innovate in Nigeria's cable and wire manufacturing subsector: inferences from a firm-level case study

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  • A.A. Egbetokun
  • W.O. Siyanbola
  • A.A. Adeniyi

Abstract

Firm performance is known to be connected to firm-level innovation capability. Innovation capability, in turn, is an output of technological learning. This paper evaluates technological learning among firms in the cable and wire manufacturing subsector in Nigeria, using a case firm. We developed a model of the relationship between the innovative activities of the firm – as evidence of its capability – and its knowledge acquisition methodology. These are discussed within the context of the firm's stock of human capital. We found low technological innovation capability and high capability for organisational and marketing innovation. Preparedness for technological learning is relatively poor with a staff training intensity of 5% and an innovation intensity of 0.0075%. We therefore propose stronger interconnectedness between the National Innovation System and the creation of industry-specific structures that could enhance learning.

Suggested Citation

  • A.A. Egbetokun & W.O. Siyanbola & A.A. Adeniyi, 2010. "Learning to innovate in Nigeria's cable and wire manufacturing subsector: inferences from a firm-level case study," International Journal of Learning and Intellectual Capital, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 7(1), pages 55-74.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijlica:v:7:y:2010:i:1:p:55-74
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Egbetokun A. & Oluwatope O. & Adeyeye D. & Sanni M., 2014. "The role of industry and economic context in open innovation: Evidence from Nigeria," MERIT Working Papers 2014-073, United Nations University - Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (MERIT).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    technological learning; innovation capability; innovation intensity; sub-sector; cable and wire manufacturing; actors; Nigeria; knowledge acquisition; staff training.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L68 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Manufacturing - - - Appliances; Furniture; Other Consumer Durables
    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D

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