FACULTY OF MANAGEMENT SCIENCES

The study examined the relationship between ownership structure and bank performance covering a period of 10 years spanning from 2014 to 2023. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the effect of foreign ownership bank performance, the effect of institutional ownership on bank performance, the effect of float ownership on bank performance, the effect of government ownership on bank performance, and the effect of family ownership on bank performance. To this end, the study employs a panel data regression approach, sampling 12 banks from all listed banks in the Nigeria stock exchange as at December, 2024. The analysis covered the descriptive statistics of the variables, followed by correlation analysis then the panel OLS regression analysis. The findings revealed that institutional ownership has a positive but insignificant impact on bank performance, that government ownership has a significant negative impact on bank performance, that family ownership has a negative and insignificant impact on bank performance, that foreign ownership does not have a significant impact on bank performance, and lastly, float ownership has no significant impact on bank performance in Nigeria.The study concludes that empirical evidence on the relationship between ownership structure and financial performance of Nigerian banks has been provided, recommending, among others, that in order to successfully improve firm performance and profitability, institutional owners should diversify their investment strategies, governments should privatize state-owned enterprises and implement governance reforms, governments should simplify regulatory frameworks to attract foreign investment, firms should promote investor education and engagement, and family-owned firms should develop succession planning and establish clear governance structures.

This study examines the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in improving tax compliance in Nigeria. It aims to assess the current state of tax compliance, identify challenges in tax administration, explore AI applications in tax processes, evaluate their impact, and recommend strategies for effective integration. Primary data were collected from 100 respondents, including taxpayers and tax officials, using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing. The results indicate that tax compliance in Nigeria is moderate, hindered by challenges such as corruption, poor taxpayer education, and inadequate technology. The study finds that AI tools, including electronic filing (e-filing), automated reminders, data matching systems, and chatbots, can significantly enhance tax operations by reducing errors, increasing efficiency, and improving transparency. These findings suggest that AI adoption has a
positive effect on voluntary tax compliance. The study concludes that effective implementation of AI in Nigeria’s tax system can promote transparency, reduce evasion, and strengthen revenue collection. It recommends investing in AI infrastructure, staff training, public awareness campaigns, and establishing clear regulatory frameworks to ensure successful adoption.

This study examined the impact of digital payment systems on the growth of small businesses in Benin City, Nigeria. The research specifically focused on three major components of digital payment systems: Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), Point of Sale (POS) terminals, and online banking transactions. The study was motivated by the increasing global shift toward cashless transactions and the limited empirical research on how such technologies influence small business development in emerging economies like Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 100 small business owners and managers in Benin City using structured questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistical tools, including multiple regression analysis, were employed to analyze the data with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings revealed that ATMs, POS terminals, and online banking transactions have a significant positive impact on small business growth in Benin City. Specifically, ATMs facilitate quick access to cash, POS terminals enhance customer patronage and reduce cash-handling risks, while online banking improves financial management and business efficiency. However, challenges such as network instability, high transaction charges, ATM cash shortages, and cybersecurity concerns were identified as barriers to optimal utilization. The study concluded that digital payment systems play a crucial role in promoting the growth and sustainability of small businesses by improving operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability. It recommends that banks and telecommunication firms enhance network reliability, reduce transaction costs, and strengthen security frameworks. Additionally, financial institutions and government agencies should intensify awareness and provide training to small business owners to ensure wider adoption and effective utilization of digital payment systems.