IMPACT OF TAX REFORMS ON CORPORATE TAX BURDEN

This study investigates the impact of tax reform on corporate tax burden among listed firms in Nigeria. With increasing emphasis on creating a sustainable tax environment that promotes compliance and enhances corporate profitability, the study evaluated how key components of tax reforms namely tax base broadening, administrative efficiency, tax incidence, and effective tax rate affect corporate tax obligations. An ex-post facto research design was employed using structured questionnaires administered to 306 stakeholders, including tax officers and business owners across six southwestern Nigerian states. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression techniques. Findings indicate that tax base broadening, administrative efficiency, and effective tax rates have significant effects on corporate tax burden, while tax incidence showed a moderate yet noteworthy influence. Specifically, improved administrative efficiency and a broadened tax base were associated with a reduction in the perceived tax burden, while inconsistencies in tax incidence created mixed outcomes across business sizes. The study confirms that well-structured tax reforms can lower compliance costs, increase fiscal transparency, and enhance financial sustainability among firms. The results also validate the relevance of Public Choice and Keynesian Theories in explaining the political economy and macroeconomic implications of tax policy. This research contributes to fiscal policy literature by providing empirical insights into how reform-driven tax policy can improve corporate fiscal outcomes. Recommendations include promoting digital tax systems, simplifying tax structures, and enhancing stakeholder engagement for sustainable reform implementation.