Sales and supply chain risks mitigation: A study of some companies at the peak of Boko Haram insurgency in North East, Nigeria

Abstract

This paper discusses the risk mitigation strategies of some Nigerian companies that make and/or import and distribute their products in the North Eastern part of the country where the Boko Haram (BH) religious insurgency has been very active. The aim of the study is to understand how some of the affected companies adopted mitigating strategies to remain resilient in the region during the peak of the Boko Haram insurgency (between 2012 and 2015). A secondary aim of this study is to add to the body of knowledge on supply chain risk management practices in a developing economy. A qualitative research methodology involving case studies of four companies operating in the region was adopted. The findings indicate the sectional risk mitigating strategies adopted by the companies to contain the disruptions included a combination of the various options of risk avoidance, retention, reduction and transfer. Based on the findings obtained from the study, there is the need for companies to consider the conceptualization and implementation of supply chain risk management structure, policies and processes to guide against any form of risk in their operating areas.