Resumen
This study focused on Total Quality Management (TQM) adoption by SMEs in Nigeria. The study investigated and analyzed factors responsible for TQM adoption by SMEs in Nigeria, its rate and success of the implementation and influence in competitive situation. Cross-sectional survey method was adopted to achieve these objectives. 250 SMEs were selected from manufacturing, textile, agricultural, food processing and service industries for data gathering; making the population of 2548, from which the sample size of 346 was determined using Taro Yamane method. The study found that the adoption of total quality management by SMEs is subject to many factors, and that TQM practices significantly affect different performance outcomes. Thus, the study concludes that TQM practice is another strategic option that can enhance viable performance outcome, and subsequently, competitive advantage of any SMEs at the marketplace. The study therefore recommends that SME owner-managers should invest substantial resources in adapting and implementing TQM in their operations such that success and viable performance outcome can be achieved.