This study examined the impact of corporate taxes on performance of selected companies quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) in Nigeria. Secondary data obtained from the annual reports of fifteen selected manufacturing companies listed on the NSE, covering six years 2010-2015, from fact-book. Data sourced were analyzed using Correlation and Regression analysis; with the aid of E-view econometrics package. Study confirmed existence of significant relationship between corporate tax and performance of manufacturing companies in Nigeria. Also, a high corporate tax rate could impair profits; thereby distorting investment decision. It is recommended that, more incentives be given to manufacturing companies especially during this era of campaign for use of made in Nigeria goods. Government should try as much as possible to strike balance between objective of aggressive tax mobilization and creating enabling environment for emerging businesses in Nigeria. Doing this, will quicken firms’ growth and will pay higher taxes in the long run

KEYWORDS; Corporate tax, Performance, listed Companies, Tax Incentive and Tax rate