COMPETITIVE AGGRESSIVENESS AND VENTURE EXPANSION OF TELECOMMUNICATION IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between competitive aggressiveness and venture expansion of telecommunication firms in Rivers State, Nigeria. Competitive aggressiveness was conceptualised through two dimensions: competitive action intensity and competitive threat responsiveness, while venture expansion was measured using subscriber growth rate and service portfolio growth. The study addressed two research questions and tested two corresponding null hypotheses. A descriptive survey research design was employed, with a population comprising four major telecommunications operators (MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile). Using purposive sampling, data were collected via a structured questionnaire from 92 top and middle management staff involved in strategic and competitive decision-making. Data analysis was conducted using Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between competitive action intensity and subscriber growth rate (r = .691, p < .01), and between competitive threat responsiveness and service portfolio growth (r = .678, p < .01). The study concludes that competitive aggressiveness is a critical driver of venture expansion in the telecommunications sector. It is recommended that firms enhance competitive action intensity through frequent and bold market initiatives to increase subscriber growth, while improving competitive threat responsiveness by closely monitoring competitors and responding promptly to new market developments to expand service portfolios.