EFFECT OF KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT ON RETURN ON INVESTMENT OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs) IN ZAMFARA STATE

This paper investigates effect of knowledge acquisition and knowledge retention on return on investment of SMEs in Zamfara State. The paper obtained a sample of 386 SMEs using Krejcie and Morgan (1970) sampling table from the population of 10,003. Primary data was collected through closed-ended questionnaire and analyzed using linear regression with aid of SPSS Version 26. The findings of the study reveal that both Knowledge Acquisition and Knowledge Retention have significant effect on return on investment of SMEs. The results strongly support the Resource-Base-View (RBV) Theory, positioning knowledge as a critical strategic resource for SME competitiveness. It is recommended that SMEs in Zamfara State should invest in knowledge acquisition initiatives such as training, workshops, and conferences to enhance their financial performance. They should also prioritize knowledge retention mechanisms such as documentation, database, mini-libraries, mentoring, and employee development programs to sustain and improve their return on investment. Policy makers should mandate knowledge retention frameworks in critical sectors such as SMEs, education, and public administration. Integrate knowledge management into national development strategies to strengthen competitiveness and innovation.