EFFECT OF MULTIPLE TAXATION ON THE SURVIVAL OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMES) IN BAUCHI STATE

Abstract This study investigates the effect of multiple taxation on the survival of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Bauchi State, Nigeria, through the lens of bound attributes—focusing particularly on regulatory constraints and the business environment. SMEs play a vital role in economic growth and employment generation; however, excessive and overlapping tax burdens pose a significant threat to their sustainability. The research adopted a survey design, collecting data from selected SME operators across key commercial areas in Bauchi State. Using descriptive statistics and regression analysis, the findings reveal that multiple layers of taxation ranging from federal, state, and local government levies significantly hinder the growth and profitability of SMEs. Regulatory inefficiencies, poor tax harmonization, and lack of transparency exacerbate the situation, leading to high compliance costs and reduced business expansion. The study further shows that regulatory constraints, as a bound attribute, have a direct and adverse effect on the survival rate of SMEs, highlighting the urgent need for policy reform. It concludes that unless tax policies are simplified and regulatory bodies coordinated, the sustainability of SMEs in Bauchi State will remain at risk. Recommendations include streamlining tax structures, enforcing regulatory reforms, and improving the awareness and capacity of SME operators regarding tax compliance. Keywords: Multiple taxation, SMEs, regulatory constraints, survival, Bauchi State, bound attributes, tax policy, business sustainability.