Study of Cloud Computing Adoption Among Small Businesses in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria

Cloud computing offers small businesses cost-effective access to scalable IT resources, but adoption among small and medium enterprises in Nigerian cities is constrained by multiple technical, economic, and knowledge-related barriers. This study investigates the adoption status and determinants of cloud computing use among small businesses in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was applied to 260 small business owners across three commercial districts in Ibadan, selected through systematic sampling. The questionnaire measured cloud service awareness, current adoption status, perceived cost-benefit, internet quality, data security concerns, and technical knowledge. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were computed using SPSS. Literature from South West Nigerian SME technology adoption identifies perceived data insecurity and lack of technical expertise as the leading barriers to cloud adoption, with cost concerns moderating the adoption decision for micro-enterprises. The Diffusion of Innovations Theory and the Technology-Organisation-Environment framework guide the analysis. Findings reveal that only 27 percent of surveyed businesses actively use cloud platforms, primarily for file storage and accounting software, while 64 percent remain unaware of sector-specific cloud applications suited to their business type. The study recommends ICT development agency-sponsored cloud adoption workshops, subsidised broadband packages for small businesses, and collaboration between cloud vendors and trade associations for contextualised demonstrations. Keywords: cloud computing, adoption, small businesses, Ibadan, South West Nigeria.