ABSTRACT

 This study examined the impact oftariff imposition on economic growth in Nigeria within the sampled period of 1981-2017. The data for this research work was obtained from the CBN Statistical Bulletin and analysed using ordinary least square (OLS) analysis. Gross domestic product was regressed against economic Tariff openness, aggregate import, aggregate export and openness. The result revealed that tariff captured by tariff levy, aggregate import; aggregate export and openness had significant influence on the country's economic growth. The unit root result revealed that all the variables were stationary atfirst difference. Cointegration test revealed that the entire variables have long run relationship with economic growth of Nigeria within the sample period with at least three co-integrating equation. The VECM result indicates that the dependent variable has the capacity to adjust to short-term fluctuation from long term equilibrium. Tarifflevy wasfound to be statistically significant, while AIMP, AEXP and OPN had negative impact on economic growth. Based on this finding the research recommends among others; that conscious efforts should be made by government to harmonise the various macroeconomic variables in order to provide an enabling environment to stimulate foreign trade by putting up policies and measures which encourage exportation and in effect ensure that excessive importation is curtailed since it has a negative effect on the economy.