Abstract:
This study examines the role of management accounting in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Lagos State, Nigeria. The objectives are to: (1) evaluate how management accounting practices enhance financial planning and control, (2) assess the impact on profitability and business growth, and (3) analyze the challenges faced by SMEs in implementing management accounting practices. A survey design was chosen to gather data from SME owners and accountants. The sample size, calculated using Taro Yamane's formula, ensures representativeness. The reliability coefficient score of the survey was 0.91. Findings indicate that management accounting significantly enhances financial planning, control, profitability, and business growth for SMEs. However, challenges such as resource constraints and lack of expertise were noted. It is recommended that SMEs in Lagos State invest in management accounting training and tools to improve financial planning and business growth.