Abstract
This study investigates the impact of insecurity on entrepreneurship growth in Anambra State,
Nigeria, focusing on the relationship between rising insecurity and the establishment and growth
of new business ventures. The research adopts a survey research design. The study utilised primary
data collected from 105 managers of SMEs in Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi. The data were obtained
using a structured questionnaire. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) was used to
test the hypothesis. The PPMC revealed a significant negative correlation between insecurity and
the rate of new venture creation, with heightened insecurity serving as a major deterrent for
entrepreneurs. The study concludes that security is essential for the sustainability and growth of
entrepreneurial ventures. The study underscores the sensitivity of entrepreneurial activities to the
security environment, demonstrating that insecurity not only reduces the likelihood of new
business establishment but also stunts the growth of existing enterprises and increases the risk of
business failure. Based on the results, the study recommended the need for business operators to
carefully assess security risks before investing, for the state government to prioritize the protection
of lives and properties, and for enhanced security measures in commercial areas to support
ongoing business activities.