The Roles of Value Added Tax in the Economic Growth of Nigeria

Value Added Tax (VAT) was introduced by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 1993 to replace Sales Tax. The aim was to increase the revenue base of government and make funds available for developmental purposes that will accelerate economic growth. The paper empirically examined the contribution of VAT to the development of the Nigerian economy. Time series data on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), VAT Revenue, Total Tax Revenue and Total (Federal Government) Revenue from 1994 to 2010 sourced from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) were analyzed, using both simple regression analysis and descriptive statistical method. Findings showed that VAT Revenue accounts and total revenue account for as much as 92% significant variations in GDP in Nigeria. A positive and insignificant correlation exists between VAT Revenue and GDP. Both economic variables fluctuated greatly over the period though VAT Revenue was more stable. This paper therefore recommends that all identified administrative loopholes should be plugged for VAT Revenue to continue to contribute more significantly to economic growth of the country.