THE INFLUENCE OF FIRM ATTRIBUTES ON NON-FINANCIAL INFORMATION DISCLOSURE IN NIGERIAN ELITE FIRMS

This study investigates the effect of firm characteristics on non-financial information disclosures among Elite issuers listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group. Using a longitudinal survey design, the research analyzes annual reports of eight Elite Issuer firms over a ten-year period (2012–2021). Panel least squares regression, along with Hausman and heteroskedasticity tests, was employed to determine the appropriate model and ensure result reliability. Findings indicate that firm size negatively and significantly affects non-financial information disclosures, while firm age has a positive and significant effect. These results suggest that larger firms may neglect non-financial disclosures, potentially leading to reputational risks, whereas older firms tend to provide more comprehensive non-financial information. The study recommends that large firms prioritize non-financial disclosures to mitigate negative spillovers and enhance corporate transparency. Overall, the research underscores the importance of firm characteristics in shaping disclosure practices and encourages all listed firms to engage sincerely in non-financial information reporting to maximize associated benefits.