The main objective of this study is to examine the relationship of market penetration strategy, market development strategy and the competitive advantage (cost leadership) of manufacturing based SMEs in Nigeria. The study employed structured questionnaire survey involving 453 manufacturing based SMEs operating in Kaduna state, Kano state, and Sokoto state, the total of 277 valid questionnaires representing 61% response rate was used for the final analysis using PLS-SEM to test the hypotheses. The study finding shows that market penetration strategy has a significant positive impact on cost leadership. Similarly, the result found that market development strategy had a significant positive influence on cost leadership strategy of manufacturing based SMEs of Nigeria. The findings of this study will support owners-manager competency toward creating competitiveness, enhance market share, and sustain competitive advantage. Also, the framework will serve as a blue print for Government agencie.....

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