The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between market orientation and business performance of small and medium enterprise (SMEs) in Nigeria. A quantitative method was used, employing a cross – sectional research design. The data were collected through the self – administration method from 320 respondents¸ using a structured questionnaire, a total of 212 valid questionnaires was completed and returned representing 66 percent response rate. SMEs are very important to the economic growth of Nigeria, they serve as a major source of employment, contributes toward local resource utilization, a source of entrepreneurship development, an avenue for the conservation of foreign exchange, ensures equitable distribution of income and wealth and help in the preservation of cultural heritage. A model was developed based on theoretical reflection to examine the relationship. Smart PLS is used in the data analysis, which reported a significant and positive relationship between the market orientation and business performance of SMEs. The findings of this study will benefit owner/managers of SMEs, regulatory agencies, government at all levels and will also serve as a frame of reference for future studies, and future research directions were discussed.
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