FACTORS AFFECTING INTENTION TO ADOPT E-BUSINESS IN SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES) IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS, NIGERIA: MODERATING ROLE OF INFORMATION SECURITY

Abstract

The objective of this research is to examine the moderating effects of information security on the relationship between intention to adopt e-business and its antecedent’s in small and medium business enterprises (SMEs) in Bauchi metropolis, Nigeria. This study used unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). Using quantitative approach, correlational research approach was used in this research. Data were gathered through questionnaire from 373 owner/managers of SMEs using purposive sampling, the study also employed cross sectional research approach. This study used SPSS version 22 and PLS-SEM 4 to analyze data collected from the respondents. The findings revealed that relative advantage, competitive pressure and attitude significantly influenced intention to adopt e—business and the moderating variable information security moderated the relation between competitive pressure, attitude and intention to adopt e-business. The findings of these research provided  empirical evidences to support unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT). Future researchers can use longitudinal approach to data collection to further expand our understanding regarding intention to adopt e-business.