Background of the Study
Fiscal revenue is the lifeblood of government finance, providing the resources necessary for public investment, social services, and infrastructure development. In Nigeria, the relationship between income growth and fiscal revenue is critical because higher incomes can broaden the tax base and enhance tax collection efficiency. Theoretically, as income levels increase, both individuals and corporations generate more taxable income, leading to higher government revenues—a phenomenon explained by the Laffer curve and related fiscal theories (Umar, 2023). Moreover, income growth can stimulate economic activity, further increasing tax revenues through a virtuous cycle of enhanced consumption, investment, and production.
Empirical evidence from emerging economies suggests that countries with robust income growth tend to experience stronger fiscal revenue performance. In Nigeria, however, challenges such as widespread informality, tax evasion, and administrative inefficiencies often reduce the potential revenue gains from income growth. While reforms aimed at improving tax compliance and modernizing tax administration have been implemented, their effectiveness in converting income growth into fiscal revenue remains inconsistent (Abiodun, 2024).
This study will analyze the impact of income growth on fiscal revenue in Nigeria by examining trends in income levels, tax collection, and overall public revenue. It will assess the role of structural factors—such as the composition of income, the tax structure, and compliance levels—in mediating the relationship between income growth and fiscal revenue. By comparing periods with varying rates of income growth, the study aims to identify the conditions under which income gains most effectively translate into higher public revenues, thereby providing policymakers with insights into strategies for optimizing tax systems in an evolving economic landscape.
Statement of the Problem
Despite periods of income growth in Nigeria, the corresponding increases in fiscal revenue have often been below expectations. One major problem is that while incomes may be rising, a significant share of economic activity occurs in the informal sector, which remains outside the ambit of effective tax collection. This disconnect results in lower-than-expected revenue gains even during periods of robust income growth (Umar, 2023). Additionally, inefficiencies in tax administration, coupled with widespread evasion and non-compliance, further limit the conversion of income growth into fiscal revenue.
The persistent challenge of a narrow tax base and the volatility of income sources—exacerbated by fluctuations in global oil prices—compound the problem. These factors create an unpredictable revenue environment, making fiscal planning and public investment difficult. The problem is also compounded by the lack of integrated policies that effectively harness income growth for revenue generation. Without addressing these structural issues, Nigeria risks underfunding critical developmental projects, which in turn may stifle further economic growth.
This study seeks to investigate the extent to which income growth influences fiscal revenue in Nigeria and to identify the primary barriers that hinder this relationship. The findings are expected to inform policy measures aimed at expanding the tax base, improving compliance, and ultimately enhancing the fiscal capacity of the government.
Objectives of the Study
• To examine the relationship between income growth and fiscal revenue in Nigeria.
• To identify key factors that hinder the effective conversion of income growth into public revenue.
• To propose policy reforms that improve tax collection efficiency and broaden the tax base.
Research Questions
• How does income growth affect fiscal revenue in Nigeria?
• What factors moderate the relationship between income growth and tax collection?
• Which policy interventions can enhance the conversion of income growth into fiscal revenue?
Research Hypotheses
• H1: Income growth is positively correlated with fiscal revenue in Nigeria.
• H2: Informality and tax evasion significantly weaken the income–revenue relationship.
• H3: Fiscal reforms aimed at improving tax administration strengthen the impact of income growth on revenue.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on the relationship between income growth and fiscal revenue in Nigeria over the past decade using secondary fiscal data. Limitations include data gaps in the informal sector, measurement challenges, and the impact of external economic shocks.
Definitions of Terms
• Income Growth: An increase in average earnings among households and firms.
• Fiscal Revenue: Government income generated from taxes, fees, and other sources.
• Tax Base: The aggregate of taxable income or transactions in the economy.
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