Evaluation of Sustainable Construction Practices in Nigeria

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Evaluation of the Impact of Sustainable Construction Practices on Project Success in

Nigeria

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Abstract

The dissertation examines how sustainable building methods impact project performance in the Nigerian construction industry. The aim is to thoroughly assess the awareness levels, implementation status, perceived effect, and difficulties related to sustainable building techniques in Nigeria. The study uses a quantitative research methodology and a cross-sectional technique to collect data from professionals working in the Nigerian construction business. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of current literature, this study combines theoretical frameworks and empirical data to provide insights into the research topic. This assessment establishes the basis for comprehending the present state of sustainable building practices in Nigeria and emphasises crucial topics for further examination. The study use a structured questionnaire as the main method for collecting data. This method enables the organised collection of numerical data, which is then examined using statistical methods. Emphasising ethical issues is crucial at every stage of the study process to maintain participant anonymity and comply with ethical standards. The study's results provide insights into the current status of sustainable building practices in Nigeria, focusing on professionals' knowledge levels, application in construction projects, and perceived influence on project success. The obstacles and limitations that are impeding the general adoption of sustainable practices are recognised and examined. The dissertation assesses the implications for research, policy, and practice in the Nigerian construction industry via a thorough analysis of the results. Identified research gaps provide chances for additional inquiry and improvement in the discipline. Recommendations are created to direct future research efforts and advise industry stakeholders on how to encourage sustainable building practices.

Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background

1.1.1 Overview of The Research Area

The construction business is crucial for global economic growth since it delivers vital infrastructure and job prospects. Conventional procedures in the building industry often led to substantial environmental harm, loss of resources, and social issues. Sustainable building approaches have arisen as a vital change in thinking to reduce the adverse effects of construction operations and promote economic development and social well-being (Hariram et al., 2023).

Sustainable construction is a comprehensive approach to building design, construction, and operation that incorporates environmental, social, and economic factors at every stage of the project's life (Fatoureh chi & Zarghami, 2020). It focuses on maximising resource efficiency, minimising waste, using renewable resources, and improving indoor environmental quality.

Sustainable building is being acknowledged worldwide, but its use in Nigeria is still restricted. There exists a disparity between the level of consciousness and the practical implementation of sustainable methods in the Nigerian building sector. It is crucial to comprehend the elements that In Nigeria, increasing urbanisation, population expansion, and infrastructural development have significantly strained natural resources and ecosystems. Nigeria's building industry has several obstacles such as insufficient infrastructure, substandard construction methods, and environmental deterioration (Faremi et al., 2020). To tackle these difficulties, there is need for transition to sustainable building approaches that prioritise environmental stewardship, social equality, and economic viability.

In Nigeria, increasing urbanisation, population expansion, and infrastructural development have significantly strained natural resources and ecosystems. Nigeria's building industry has several obstacles such as insufficient infrastructure, substandard construction methods, and environmental deterioration (Faremi et al., 2020). To tackle these difficulties, there is need for transition to sustainable building approaches that prioritise environmental stewardship, social equality, and economic viability.

affect the adoption and effectiveness of sustainable building techniques to advance sustainable development in Nigeria's construction sector.

1.1.2 Statement of The Problem

The Nigerian construction sector faces sustainability difficulties such as environmental deterioration, resource depletion, and socio-economic disparities. Traditional building methods often prioritise immediate benefits at the expense of long-term sustainability, resulting in negative environmental and social impacts (Ekins & Zenghelis, 2021). Lack of knowledge, insufficient laws, and financial limitations are further obstacles to the broad implementation of sustainable building methods in Nigeria.

There is a notable absence of thorough study on how sustainable building techniques affect project performance in Nigeria. Although there is an increasing amount of research on sustainable building worldwide, its relevance to the Nigerian setting may be restricted by distinct socio-economic and environmental issues.

The main issue this study focuses on is assessing how sustainable building practices impact project performance in the Nigerian construction industry. This study entails evaluating the level of knowledge, application, perceived effects, and obstacles related to sustainable building methods among professionals in Nigeria. This study intends to identify obstacles and possibilities for sustainable building in Nigeria's construction sector to guide governmental interventions, industry practices, and future research for promoting sustainable development.

1.2 Research Question/Hypothesis

1.2.1 Research Question

The research question guiding this study is: "What is the impact of sustainable construction practices on project success within the Nigerian construction sector?"

1.2.2 Hypothesis

Sustainable construction practices positively influence project success in the Nigerian construction sector.

1.3 Aims and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this research is to evaluate the impact of sustainable construction practices on project success in Nigeria.

The specific objectives of the study are as follows:

1. To assess the level of awareness and familiarity with sustainable construction practices among professionals in the Nigerian construction industry.

2. To examine the extent to which sustainable construction practices have been implemented in construction projects in Nigeria.

3. To gauge the perceived impact of sustainable construction practices on project success in the Nigerian context.

4. To identify the challenges and barriers hindering the widespread adoption of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria.

1.4 Significance of the Study

This research is important because it has the ability to tackle crucial challenges in the Nigerian building industry and add to the worldwide discussion on sustainable development.

This study will provide useful insights into the present understanding and implementation of sustainable building methods among professionals in Nigeria. The research may identify areas requiring educational interventions or policy changes to successfully promote sustainable behaviours by evaluating familiarity and knowledge levels. This is important due to the

increasing awareness of the environmental effects of building operations and the need for sustainable options.

It is crucial for stakeholders, policymakers, and practitioners to comprehend how sustainable building methods affect project success in Nigeria. This research helps guide decision-making and prioritise investments in sustainable infrastructure projects by assessing the perceived advantages and constraints. The study may help uncover obstacles to adoption, such regulatory restrictions or resource limits, in order to create specific treatments to address these issues.

This research also has wider implications for the progress of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Nigeria. The building industry is important for economic growth, but it also puts a lot of strain on natural resources and contributes to environmental harm (Udeagha & Ngepah, 2023).

This study may help achieve many Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by advocating for sustainable building techniques, particularly in areas such as climate action, responsible consumption and production, and sustainable cities and communities.

Source: About the UN SDGs (2023)

The results of this research may help develop methods to enhance resilience against upcoming environmental issues. Climate change worsens the occurrence and strength of natural catastrophes. Sustainable building methods may improve the ability of infrastructure and communities to withstand these challenges. This study aims to find successful techniques for incorporating sustainability into building projects to reduce the risks linked to climate change effects.

1.5 Scope of the Study

This research aims to evaluate how sustainable building practices affect project performance in the Nigerian construction industry. The study will focus on professionals engaged in building projects, such as architects, engineers, contractors, and project managers.

1.6 Definition of Terms

This dissertation uses certain phrases regularly throughout the text, which may need explanation to comprehend their meaning within the study's context.

Sustainable Construction Practices: Refers to building practices that focus on reducing environmental effect, preserving resources, and enhancing social welfare for the whole project duration. The methods include energy efficiency, waste reduction, utilisation of renewable resources, and consideration of social and economic considerations.

Project Success: Encompasses several facets of project performance, including as completing project goals, adhering to budget and timeline, reaching quality benchmarks, and fulfilling stakeholders' expectations. Project success may also include wider results like environmental sustainability and social effect.

Awareness Levels: The degree of comprehension and expertise that specialists in the building sector possess about sustainable construction processes, including their advantages for the environment, social consequences, and financial aspects.

Implementation: Integrating sustainable construction techniques into projects by using green building materials, technology, and design solutions to meet sustainability goals.

Challenges and Barriers: Refer to the challenges and problems that are experienced in the process of adopting and implementing sustainable building techniques. These challenges and difficulties may include legislative limits, financial impediments, technology limitations, and opposition to change within the industry.

Chapter Two: Literature Review

2.1 Introduction to The Literature Review

This literature review establishes the foundation for a detailed investigation of sustainable building techniques in Nigeria. The objective of the literature review is to synthese current scholarship and research results on sustainable building. The literature review attempts to provide a strong basis for the current investigation by presenting a thorough summary of pertinent literature, hypotheses, and empirical studies. This part emphasizes the significance of comprehending the current knowledge base to pinpoint deficiencies, expand on prior research, and provide fresh perspectives to the sustainable building sector in Nigeria.

2.2 Theoretical Framework

Theoretical frameworks are essential for directing research on sustainable building methods by offering perspectives to comprehend the intricate relationship between aspects affecting adoption, implementation, and effect. Various theoretical approaches have been used to study sustainable building in Nigeria's construction sector. Three key frameworks are principles of sustainable development, systems theory, and diffusion of innovation theory.

2.2.1 Principles of Sustainable Development

The foundation of sustainable building research is based on the ideas of sustainable development. The concepts outlined in important publications such as the Brundtland Report (1987) stress the need of combining environmental, social, and economic factors to address current demands without jeopardising the capacity of future generations to fulfil their own needs. Sustainable construction approaches aim to reduce environmental impact, improve social fairness, and ensure economic viability throughout the whole lifespan of a structure.

Three pillars of sustainable development

Environmental

• Green Initiatives

• Spent Cake Recycling

• Reclamation Efforts

• Operational Efficiencies

• Natural Alternatives

Economic

• Providing Resources and Products to Customers

• Capital Improvements

• Employment

• Product Stewardship

• New Market Development

Social

• The EP Way

• Training

• Compliance

• EP in the Community

• Customer Service

• Marketing Communications

• Environmental Health & Safety

Source: (The 3 Pillars of the Sustainable Economy - SUSTRAINY, 2021)

Ade-Ojo and Awodele (2020) emphasise the significance of green building requirements awareness among professionals in the construction industry in Nigeria. They underscore the relevance of skill development in promoting sustainable growth within the sector.

2.2.2 Systems Theory

Systems theory provides a useful framework for comprehending sustainable building techniques in intricate socio-technical systems. This viewpoint sees building projects as complex systems consisting of different stakeholders, materials, technologies, and processes.

Ludwig von Bertalanffy (Systems Theory Systems Biology)

Alexander Bogdanov (Tektology/ Founder - Systems Thinking)

Margaret Mead (Anthropology/ 2nd Order Cybernetics)

Kenneth Boulding (economics, ecology)

Wertheimer, Koffka & Köhler (Gestalt Psychology)

Anatol Rapoport (mathematical psychology/family systems theory)

Roger Barker (environmental psychology)

Systems Theory

Source: Aréas, 2023

Sustainable building interventions include systemic modifications that affect several components of the construction system. Aghimien et al. (2018) analysed the obstacles to sustainable construction in educational facilities in Nigeria, demonstrating how systemic hurdles including lack of knowledge, insufficient regulations, and institutional restrictions impede the acceptance and execution of sustainable techniques.

2.2.3 Diffusion of Innovation Theory

The diffusion of innovation theory offers understanding on how new practices are propagated and adopted within social systems. This theory posits that innovations go through many phases of adoption, such as awareness, interest, assessment, trial, and adoption (Frei-Landau et al., 2022).

DIFFUSION OF INNOVATION MODEL

Innovators 2.5%

Early Adopters 13.5%

Early Majority 34%

Late Majority 34%

Laggards 16%

Characteristics: Innovators to Laggards

[section-unreadable]

Source: Oubre, 2018

In Nigeria, sustainable building techniques are a recent development that follows diffusion processes as stakeholders become more aware of their advantages and want to incorporate them into construction projects (Tunji-Olayeni et al., 2020). Okoye et al. (2022) conducted a study that investigates the risks related to the implementation of sustainable building practices in Nigeria.

The research highlighted the elements that impact the acceptance and spread of sustainable innovations in the construction sector.

2.2.4 Integration of Theoretical Frameworks

The theoretical frameworks are not mutually incompatible but instead complementary, providing several viewpoints on the intricate phenomena of sustainable building. They share a focus on comprehensive, systemic sustainability methods that acknowledge the interconnection of environmental, social, and economic aspects. Ejidike et al. (2022) examined the level of

knowledge among construction professionals in Nigeria regarding smart building concepts. They emphasised the importance of incorporating advanced technologies to improve environmental sustainability, occupant comfort, and operational efficiency based on principles of sustainable development.

2.3 Assessing Awareness and Familiarity

In the past few years, there has been a remarkable increase in the responsiveness to sustainable construction among professionals in the Nigerian construction sector. Ade-Ojo and Awodele (2020) did the study with the objective of examining the awareness and understanding of green building criteria among the construction professionals in Nigeria. Their research showed that there was an increasing awareness among construction professionals about the need to embrace green designs. Perceiving a bearing on the impact on the environment, the builders sought to adopt sustainable building methods.

Even though there is a rising trend in this area, we still have too many unfilled places that show a lack of knowledge in the description of ecological buildings. [word-unreadable] et al. (2022) underscored the importance of specialised training and educational programmes to increase the level of knowledge and competencies of professionals and enlarge their awareness of issues such as energy efficiency, waste management, and green building certification ( [word-unreadable], 2022).

While it is true that specialists may have a general background knowledge of sustainable initiatives, the need for more detailed and in-depth training on the intricacies and advantages is clearly evident.

The absence of awareness and exposure to sustainable construction methods may be the reason for a lot of things, including the scarcity of educational resources, a lack of regulatory incentives,

and inadequate familiarity with those methods. Omoparola et al. (2022) noted that few practitioners in the building and construction sector in Nigeria may have no way at all for the course studies or the training on sustainability. Furthermore, the absence of a sound policy and incentives towards the inclination of professionals to dip themselves into the pool of sustainable construction can contribute negatively to this process.

These gaps in knowledge and recognition can be minimised by organising targeted programmes of education and training for Nigerian construction industry professionals. The programmes should involve discussion of different aspects of sustainable building, such as the use of ecologically friendly construction materials, the application of sustainable design concepts, and obtaining LEED certification (Atabay et al., 2020). The conduct of collaborative works is helpful in the interlinking of industrial players, government agencies, and learning institutions to have programmes for provision.

Furthermore, Mair & Smith (2022) asserts that spreading the word about sustainable construction techniques through outreach actions, workshops, and conferences could help to shape a sustainable culture in the construction industry. This can be done by highlighting the case and demonstrating the economic, environmental, and social advantages that are related to sustainable building projects, which can encourage professionals to use the sustainable building method in their projects.

2.4 Examining Implementation Status

Sustainable construction practices are vital in resolving environmental issues and lengthening the overall profitability of the construction sector. Implementation of these practices is a critical factor in the progress of sustainable development in many countries, including Nigeria (Olawumi

& Chan, 2022). This part of the literature review examines the present situation of sustainable construction practices implementation in Nigeria, bringing up the achieved successes, encountered challenges, and possible ways to gradually improve the state of things.

2.4.1 Current State of Implementation

Sustainable construction practices in Nigeria have been accorded recognition, but to turn them into an implementation on the ground is part of the problem. Resources are really a barrier to mobility as sustainable materials may be more costly than less expensive ones (Yu & Manthiram, 2021). Notwithstanding the limited awareness among construction professionals, this creates major obstruction. The article by Ade-Ojo and Awodele (2020) indicated that the requirement for green buildings must be made more known among the players in the industry. They emphasised the foremost role of training and proper education as chief components for raising awareness within the construction sector and environment. Though initiatives have been taken to generate consciousness and understanding, the actual incorporation of sustainable construction in the process of different palms across Nigeria has so far been inconsistent (Boarin & Martinez-Molina, 2022). This divergence between perception and action justifies the fact that there are concerted efforts to reduce the gap and make more people realise the reality of sustainable construction practices. Through solving economic constraints, increasing awareness, and providing skill-based education and training, we can reach a world where construction contributes in a positive way, not only for the environment but also for society, which will overall lead to the prosperity of the sector.

2.4.2 Challenges Encountered

The factors that make sustainable building practices difficult to implement in Nigeria are numerous and include financial, security, and regulatory issues. Economic limitations frequently play a major role, as in a lot of cases, those that are green have high prices and can be seen as competitors to established types. The scarce availability of these natural resources also makes the idea more challenging, and obstacles arise in the way of eco-friendly construction tactics (Hossain et al., 2020). According to Marut et al. (2020), it is vital to adopt solutions that are feasible and affordable to help realise sustainable construction projects for Nigeria. Their studies underscore the necessity of a worldwide alternative. The same expenditure could result in a cost decrease and an improvement in availability.

However, Alinda et al. (2022) notes that the integration of economic hardships is accompanied by regulatory hurdles, which constitute a major impediment to the universal uptake of sustainable practices. Sunday et al. (2023) further notes that the uncertainty of old building codes and the absence of effective enforcement processes usually constrain the implementation of eco-friendly construction methods. The clarification of a satisfactory regulatory circle and the embedding of effective enforcement would be regarded as key challenges of construction projects, aimed at achieving performance according to green building standards and inculcating sustainable practices into the design and process. Overcoming these regulatory challenges is significant, just like the creation of a congenial environment to see sustainable construction practices allowed to grow in Nigeria.

2.4.3 Potential Pathways for Improvement

One of the other ways to improve the situation is through capacity-building and training. These measures tend to be vital components in making the production procedures in construction efficient enough for as many sustainable practices as possible. Training courses on sustainable building designs, green construction standards, and innovative technologies are effective tools for developing the skills and training of construction stakeholders (Tunji-Olayeni et al., 2020). Besides training employees to increase their level of awareness, enough knowledge must be passed on to the technical community to ensure that green practices are widely used in most construction projects. Otasowie & Oke (2022) asserts that the cooperation of governmental agencies, associations of firms, and research institutions is required to formulate and deliver programmes that target the professional needs of the construction industry in Nigeria.

Furthermore, Franco et al. (2021) highlighted that regulatory reforms are critical for shaping the enabling environment required for sustainable construction practices. Jamoussi et al. (2022) also noted that removing building codes and standards to include green building regulations as the prerequisite factor will help towards enforcement and green transition. The development of effective regulation mechanisms and the implementation of novel green construction technologies may be the best ways to upgrade industry practices into environmentally friendly features (Javaid et al., 2022). Besides accelerating the regulatory reforms, the promotion of sustainable construction projects, the approval processes, and the adoption of design and construction innovations should also be included in the programme (Manzoor et al., 2021). Through addressing the above-mentioned ways, Nigeria can overcome the barriers to sustainable construction and open up the way for an industry that is building while taking into consideration both the environment and society.

2.4.4 Capacity Building and Training Initiatives

Building capacity and training programmes are pivotal elements of the comprehensive campaign to improve sustainable construction implementation in Nigeria (Ifije & Aigbavboa, 2020). The ultimate goal is to equip the construction specialists with the tools and necessary resources, including an educational background, to effectively incorporate sustainable concepts into their projects. Gade & Selman (2023) highlighted that training programmes emphasising service lifecycle, green construction standards, and state-of-the-art technologies serve the purpose of giving hands-on guidance to industry players on the implementation of sustainable technologies and practices. Through informing construction stakeholders and improving their technical skills, programmes such as those make it possible to assess and adopt pathways leading to sustainable outcomes.

Nurdin & Baharuddin (2023) stated the cooperation among government agencies, industry associations, and academic institutions offers a great density for the effectiveness of capacity-building and training plans. Anyim (2023) also noted that through combining expertise and resources, parties would arrange training supervision that would combat the stumbling blocks and problems of the Nigerian construction industry. Governments could provide the required funding and policy support; industry networks and associations could share industry-specific knowledge and expertise; and academic institutions could present knowledge through research insights and educational resources (Bäume le et al., 2023).

Ensuring better training programs that are tailored to the context of Nigeria is the only way one can get effective training programs. Such an approach requires to address two key issues:

applying local building traditions, making adequate use of the available resources, and adhering

to the regulatory framework (Knippers et al., 2021). The stakeholders should also be the ones to

conduct trainings that are practical and can be applied even by construction professionals all over

the country, so there would be a wide spread adoption of sustainability in the field.

Fundamentally, capacity building and training programmes play an integral role in striving for

change in the construction sector and are fueling the development pursuit in Nigeria.

2.4.5 Regulatory Reforms

Regulatory frameworks should be imperative in order to have a baseline that is favourable for

sustainable construction practices (Hossain et al., 2020). It is necessary to revise and enhance

building codes and standards that deal with green building implementation in a manner that

meets expectations and encourages buy-in. Furthermore, the installation of robust enforcement

institutions and the depiction of attractive advantages for sustainable construction will create

motivation for industry players to give a higher priority to sustainability (Zhou et al., 2023).

Regulation should also consist of measures to simplify permit streams for sustainable

construction projects and underpin investment in green building innovation.

2.5 Gauging Perceived Impact on Project Success

The impact of sustainable construction activities on people and processes determines their value,

and one should assess the results in the Nigerian context. This segment of the literature review

attempts to capture the views stakeholders have towards sustainable construction. The focus is on

the perceived advantages, objections, and impact on project success.

Research by Toriola-Coker et al. (2021) and Ogunkan (2022) has demonstrated that the

stakeholders in the Nigerian construction industry regard the process of sustainable construction

as having a positive influence on the success of a project. The study conducted by Toriola-Coker et al. (2021) aims at recognising the sustainability challenges of the Nigerian construction business and confirming the possibility of improving project performance if the stakeholders embrace sustainable practices. Moreover, Ogunkan (2022) revealed the significance of policy actions to support sustainable environmental governance in Nigeria, and this suggests a growing recognition of the fact that the building sector must be sustainably developed.

The anticipated advantage of sustainable construction methods is their ability to increase project productivity and achieve better results. Stakeholders hold the opinion that taking notions based on sustainability into account in building projects might be one way that will lead to improved resource efficiency, reduced environmental footprints, and better economic viability in the long run. Toriola-Coker et al. (2021) highlighted some vital aspects that contributed to the implication of sustainable practices on project success; these were energy efficiency improvement, i.e., indoor environmental quality enhancement, and user comfort and satisfaction.

Furthermore, sustainable construction practices are thought to be linked to environmental conservation and social justice. Using renewable materials, techniques, and designs, sustainable construction projects aim to reduce resource consumption, protect the environment by reducing pollution, and mitigate negative environmental impacts. Ogunkan (2022) stressed the role of policy instruments for ecological governance. Integration of environmental factors into construction decisions was considered extremely significant. Moreover, the stakeholders are also able to positively identify the social benefits linked to the implementation of green construction strategies, which may include reduced health impacts and improved community resilience, along with a boost in social equity and inclusivity.

On one hand, stakeholders see advantages to sustainable construction, while on the other, they recognise possible limitations and obstacles that slow down sustainable construction practice adoption by Nigerians. Financial issues, regulations, and difficulties in the collection of green sources and the development of relevant technologies are the key factors impeding the widespread adoption of green materials, according to the studies. Toriola-Coker et al. (2021) underscore the financial impacts of sustainability practices, stating that the incurred costs in the beginning may be a non-starter to stakeholders that do not embrace sustainability. Furthermore, regulatory frameworks may not be as supportive of sustainable construction; hence, they can create restrictive measures that will make compliance and implementation of the initiatives difficult. These problems, however, emphasise the importance of directed programmes that would help to ameliorate these barriers and promote the replacement of sustainable construction with well-established infrastructure.

Moreover, stakeholders identify the necessity of partner work with the aim of delivering sustainable construction practices and dealing with obstacles. The gaps between the public sector, businesses, academia, and civil organisations in sharing knowledge and experience, as well as in coming up with breakthroughs, is a major factor in developing an innovative society. Ogunkan (2022) claimed the importance of policy interventions in green environmental governance, stressing the importance of coordinated actions and the engagement of stakeholders to mitigate the challenges of environmental issues and also contribute to achieving sustainable development through improvements in the construction sector.

suggesting a lack of knowledge or appreciation of sustainable building concepts among industry experts. Regulatory limits were highlighted, indicating that current rules and regulations may not effectively promote or encourage sustainable practices in the building industry. Resource limits were noted as a significant hurdle, highlighting difficulty in accessing the necessary resources, materials, and experienced labour required for efficiently carrying out sustainable building projects.

Osiuzigbo et al. (2020) found certain obstacles that impede the acceptance of sustainable building methods in Nigeria. Cost implications have arisen as a major worry, indicating that the perceived financial cost linked to sustainable practices can discourage stakeholders from fully adopting them. A lack of competent labour was identified as a hurdle, showing a paucity of qualified individuals able to adopt sustainable building approaches. The results highlight the intricate obstacles that need to be addressed in order to implement sustainable building methods in Nigeria, necessitating specific tactics to overcome them.

To overcome these obstacles, it is essential for politicians, industry experts, educational institutions, and regulatory authorities to work together collaboratively. Enhancing knowledge, simplifying legal frameworks, and increasing access to resources and trained labour are crucial for fostering an environment that supports the broad implementation of sustainable building methods in Nigeria. Nigeria may progress towards a more sustainable and resilient built environment for the benefit of current and future generations by properly tackling these problems.

2.7 Gaps in the Literature

The literature review identifies several gaps in the existing research on sustainable construction practices in Nigeria:

1. Limited Focus on Implementation Challenges: While there is considerable research on the awareness and familiarity of sustainable construction practices among construction professionals in Nigeria, there is a lack of in-depth analysis of the challenges encountered during the implementation phase. While studies like those by Ade-Ojo and Awodele (2020) and [word-unreadable] et al. (2022) shed light on awareness levels and the need for training, there is limited examination of the specific obstacles faced during the actual adoption and execution of sustainable construction methods.

2. Insufficient Examination of Regulatory Frameworks: While some studies acknowledge the importance of regulatory frameworks in promoting sustainable construction practices, such as those mentioned by Alinda et al. (2021) and Sunday et al. (2023), there is a lack of detailed analysis regarding the effectiveness of existing regulations and the need for regulatory reforms. Specific gaps include the absence of comprehensive assessments of current building codes and standards, as well as the lack of studies examining the enforcement mechanisms for sustainable construction regulations in Nigeria.

3. Limited Understanding of Perceived Impact on Project Success: While there is research highlighting stakeholders' perceptions of the advantages and challenges associated with sustainable construction practices, such as the studies by Toriola-Coker et al. (2021) and Ogunkan (2022), there is a gap in understanding how these perceptions

translate into actual project outcomes and success. Few studies have systematically examined the correlation between the adoption of sustainable construction methods and project performance indicators such as cost, schedule, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction.

4. Scarcity of Comprehensive Capacity Building and Training Initiatives: Although there is recognition of the importance of capacity building and training programs to enhance the adoption of sustainable construction practices, as noted by Ifije & Aigbavboa (2020) and Gade & Selman (2023), there is limited research on the design, implementation, and effectiveness of such initiatives in the Nigerian context. Gaps exist in understanding the specific training needs of construction stakeholders, as well as the strategies for delivering targeted and practical training programs tailored to local contexts.

5. Lack of Longitudinal Studies: Most of the existing literature provides snapshots of the current state of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria, but there is a lack of longitudinal studies that track the evolution and trends in adoption, implementation, and impact over time. Longitudinal research would provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of interventions, the persistence of challenges, and the sustainability of outcomes in the Nigerian construction industry.

Addressing these gaps requires targeted research efforts that delve deeper into the specific aspects of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria, incorporate longitudinal study designs, and involve interdisciplinary collaborations among researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders.

2.8 Summary of the Literature Review

The literature study explores sustainable building methods in the Nigerian construction sector.

The process starts with providing a thorough introduction to the current literature, ideas, and frameworks relevant to sustainable building. Theoretical frameworks including sustainable development principles, systems theory, and diffusion of innovation theory provide perspectives to analyse the adoption, implementation, and effects of sustainable construction methods.

The review delves into the historical backdrop of sustainable building in Nigeria, examining its development in the face of growing urbanisation, population increase, and environmental issues.

The adoption of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the construction of regulatory frameworks have influenced the development of sustainable building practices in the nation.

The review also points out deficiencies in the current literature, especially in comprehending the whole extent of knowledge and use of sustainable practices, the perceived impact of sustainable methods on project success, and specific obstacles hindering their wider acceptance.

These gaps highlight the need for more study to thoroughly tackle the intricacies of sustainable building in Nigeria.

The literature review establishes a basic framework for the next empirical inquiry by offering insights, hypotheses, and opportunities for exploration to enhance knowledge and practice in sustainable building in Nigeria.

Chapter Three: Research Methodology

3.1 Introduction to the Research Methodology

The research methodology acts as a plan for carrying out the study, directing the choice of research design, participants, data gathering methods, analytic methodologies, and ethical issues. It guarantees the methodical collection and examination of data to efficiently tackle the research goals.

3.2 Research Design

This study uses a quantitative research design using a cross-sectional methodology. The cross-sectional design allows for data gathering at one specific moment according to Wang & Cheng (2020), providing a picture of the current circumstances related to sustainable building practices in the Nigerian construction sector. This method allows for the examination of connections between several factors, such as awareness, implementation, and perceived effect of sustainable practices, in relation to project success.

The cross-sectional approach was chosen for this research because it enables effective data collecting from a broad sample of construction workers within a given period. The research aims to get a thorough knowledge of sustainable building techniques and their impact on project success by gathering data from various persons at the same time. The cross-sectional design offers a strong foundation for investigating the study goals in the Nigerian construction industry.

3.3 Participants or Sample

The study's target demographic consists of 100 professionals who are currently employed in Nigeria's construction sector. A stratified sampling approach was used to choose a representative

sample due to logistical restrictions. Stratification is the process of categorising the people into separate groups according to certain qualities like employment positions, industries, or geographical areas (Guo et al., 2022). This method improves the generalizability of results by making sure that the sample represents the variety seen in the construction sector in Nigeria. The research seeks to get a thorough knowledge of sustainable building practices and their influence on project success in diverse situations within the Nigerian construction industry by including participants from different roles and sectors.

3.4 Data Collection Methods; Primary Data Collection

This research primarily used a structured questionnaire survey for data collecting. The questionnaire was designed to collect data on the topics of sustainable construction methods, such as awareness, implementation, perceived effect, and challenges/barriers. The questionnaire was organised into distinct parts that corresponded to the study goals, making it easier to gather data in a structured manner. The number of questions was carefully determined to strike a balance between comprehensiveness and respondent burden. The questionnaire was designed to cover a range of topics related to sustainable construction methods, including awareness, implementation experiences, perceived impacts, and challenges/barriers. Types of questions included closed-ended questions for quantitative analysis and open-ended questions for qualitative insights. The subjects covered in the questionnaire were aligned with the specific objectives of the study, ensuring that data collected would directly contribute to addressing the research questions as shown by the table below;

Objective

Question

Section

1. Assess the level of awareness and familiarity with sustainable construction practices among professionals in the Nigerian construction industry.

2.1. How familiar are you with sustainable construction practices?

Section 2: Sustainable

Construction Practices

Awareness

2.3. If yes, please specify the sustainable practices you have implemented.

Section 2: Sustainable

Construction Practices

Awareness

2. Examine the extent to which sustainable construction practices have been implemented in construction projects in Nigeria.

2.2. Have you implemented sustainable construction practices in your projects?

Section 2: Sustainable

Construction Practices

Awareness

3. Gauge the perceived impact of sustainable construction practices on project success in the Nigerian context.

3.1. In your opinion, how do sustainable construction practices contribute to project success?

Section 3: Perceived Impact

on Project Success

3.2. Have you observed any positive outcomes in project performance as a result of

on Project Success

implementing sustainable

construction practices?

3.3. If yes, please describe the

positive outcomes you have

observed.

Section 3: Perceived Impact

on Project Success

4. Identify the challenges and

barriers hindering the

widespread adoption of

sustainable construction

practices in Nigeria.

4.1. What challenges, if any,

have you encountered in

implementing sustainable

construction practices in

Nigeria?

Section 4: Challenges and

Barriers

4.2. How can these

challenges be addressed to

promote the widespread

adoption of sustainable

construction practices in

Nigeria?

Section 4: Challenges and

Barriers

5. Explore future perspectives

on the adoption of sustainable

construction practices in

Nigeria.

5.1. Do you believe that the

adoption of sustainable

construction practices will

increase in Nigeria in the next

five years?

5.2. What factors do you

think will influence the future

adoption of sustainable

construction practices in

Nigeria?

Section 5: Future

Perspectives

construction practices in

Nigeria?

6. Allow participants to

provide additional comments

or insights regarding the

impact of sustainable

construction practices on

project success in Nigeria.

6.1. Is there anything else you

would like to share regarding

the impact of sustainable

construction practices on

project success in Nigeria?

Section 6: Additional

Comments

The first step was to test the questionnaire by presenting it to a sample of 10 construction sector employees to see if there were any ambiguities or other issues with understanding. The post-piloting evaluation yielded a number of modifications to specific questions to make them clearer and more relevant, thereby increasing the accuracy of the achieved results. After the penultimate survey had been developed, it was circulated among 100 participants where only 70 respondents participated in the study. The questionnaire was to be returned in the two-week period for sufficient data collection.

3.5 Data Analysis Methods

The gathered data underwent thorough examination using suitable statistical methods such as regression analysis which was utilized to investigate the connections between variables in this study. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize demographic data, awareness levels, and implementation experiences. Specifically, frequencies and percentages were calculated for categorical variables, while measures of central tendency and dispersion were computed for continuous variables.

Inferential statistical methods, particularly regression analysis, were utilized to investigate connections between variables and evaluate the influence of sustainable building practices on project performance. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to identify significant determinants of project performance, considering factors such as awareness, implementation, and perceived effects of sustainable practices. This analysis allowed for the exploration of the relationship between these variables and project success.

The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) served as the primary software tool for data analysis. SPSS offers a wide range of statistical procedures, including regression analysis, making it suitable for exploring intricate correlations in the data. Additionally, SPSS provides robust features for data visualization, facilitating the interpretation of statistical results.

3.6 Ethical Considerations

Ethical issues are crucial in research to safeguard participants' rights and anonymity. Participants were carefully provided with informed consent, highlighting the voluntary aspect of their involvement and their ability to withdraw at any point without facing any repercussions.

Additionally, ethical permission was requested from appropriate institutional review boards or ethics committees to guarantee adherence to ethical norms in research. This stage guaranteed that the research followed recognised rules and protects the well-being of participants. Adhering to ethical norms in research ensures honesty, credibility, and confidence between researchers and participants.

3.7 Limitations of the Study

Although the research was carefully designed and executed, it has certain inherent limitations.

The cross-sectional design hinders the capacity to demonstrate causation between variables.

Longitudinal studies might provide a more profound understanding of the evolution of sustainable building practices across time. The extent to which conclusions may be applied to other situations may be affected by how well the sample represents the population and the unique circumstances of the Nigerian construction sector.

Furthermore, the study might encounter constraints associated with the self-reported nature of data obtained from the survey questionnaire. Participants' replies might be influenced by prejudice or social desirability, which can affect the accuracy and dependability of the results.

Efforts will be made to reduce these constraints by providing clear instructions, ensuring anonymity, and using data validation procedures.

The study's generalizability is restricted to the Nigerian setting, and its results may not be immediately relevant to other nations or areas with distinct socio-economic and environmental variables. The study seeks to provide significant insights and contribute to continuing efforts to improve sustainability in the building industry but does not explore wider socio-economic or environmental consequences.

Chapter Four: Results and Data Analysis

4.1 Introduction

This chapter presents the results of the survey conducted on 70 Nigerian construction industry professionals. It applies the statistical analytical results of SPSS automated calculations to report study findings through means, standard deviations, and percentages. This information is then reported in charts and tables, including demographic information and self-reported sustainable construction data from the participants.

4.2 Population Demographics

The studied sample population constituted 70 Nigerian construction industry workers: 46 men, 22 women, and 2 who did not indicate their gender. The majority were bachelor's degree holders, and the lowest level of education was high school. Additionally, most of the participants were under 35 years old and were doing site-based construction work. Ultimately, the largest group of participants have been in the industry for 1–10 years.

Table 4.1: Sample Demographics

Demographics

Gender

Female

31.40%

Male

65.70%

Educational Background

Bachelor's Degree

52.9%

High School

20.0%

Master's Degree

24.3%

PhD or equivalent

2.9%

4.3 Level of awareness and familiarity with sustainable construction practices among

professionals in the Nigerian construction industry.

Work station

Office Based 37.1%

Other 24.3%

Site Based 38.6%

Age

18-25 11.4%

26-35 45.7%

36-45 30.0%

46-55 7.1%

56 and above 5.7%

Years of Experience

Not indicated 1.4%

1-5 Years 37.1%

11-15 Years 5.7%

16 years and older 1.4%

6-10 Years 32.9%

Less than 1 year 21.4%

Table 4.2: Level of sustainable construction among construction industry professionals

Not Indicated 1 1.4%

Neutral 10 14.3%

Not familiar at all 1 1.4%

Not very familiar 6 8.6%

Somewhat familiar 23 32.9%

Very familiar 29 41.4%

Most respondents (41.1%) are very familiar with sustainable construction practices, and 32.9% are somewhat familiar. Concurrently, 48.6% of construction industry professionals in Nigeria implement sustainable construction practices in their projects, while 31.1% do not imply such strategies, and 20% are not sure.

Table 4.3: Common sustainable construction practices in Nigeria

If yes, please specify the sustainable practices you have implemented

Not indicated

Building a strong drainage

Energy reduction Waste management Biodegradable materials Renewable energy Choosing sustainable materials Water conservation

Nope

Not sure

Operating Building

Renewable energy practices. Recycling of water Proper resource usage

Renewable energy Recycling of water

Selection of materials

Sustainable building materials that facilitate low-waste conservation in our environment

Green design, which minimises negative impacts on the environment

The use of eco-friendly materials. Minimising waste generation. Promoting social responsibility within the community.

Tree planting around construction sites to act as wind blockage to reduce destruction

Planting of flowers to reduce soil erosion Use of automatic bulbs

Use of green design in construction Use of carbon print practices Use of solar panels

1 1.4%

Use of renewable sources Sustainable design and sustainable building materials Water conservation Construction of greenhouses

1 1.4%

Use of renewable sources in construction

1 1.4%

Use of renewable sources in construction Use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to save energy

1 1.4%

Use of solar panels and wind turbines Making water a vital green

1 1.4%

Use of solar panels

1 1.4%

Using locally available materials to save on costs Use of solar panels in schools and churches to save on energy

1 1.4%

Water conservation through recycling Proper disposal of garbage

1 1.4%

Well, I haven't personally implemented sustainable construction practices in my projects, but it's an important and growing trend in the construction industry. Many companies are adopting sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact and promote eco-friendly construction. It's great to see how the industry is evolving!

1 1.4%

Irrespective of the high level of self-reported familiarity with and implementation of sustainable construction, 48 of the study participants (68.6%) did not indicate the practice they had implemented. Consequently, only 31.4% of the professionals provided the sustainable practices they had engaged in. The listed practices include renewable energy consumption, water control, Effective material selection, water recycling, tree and flower planting, solar usage, and cost reduction.

4.4 Challenges to sustainable construction in Nigeria

Table 4.4: Challenges to sustainable construction in Nigeria

What challenges, if any, have you encountered in implementing sustainable construction practices in Nigeria?

Challenges N %

2 2.9%

Cost implications 25 35.7%

Lack of awareness 19 27.1%

Limited resources 9 12.9%

Other (please specify) 5 7.1%

Regulatory barriers 10 14.3%

The top three challenges to sustainable construction practices are associated costs (35.7%), lack of awareness (24.1%), and regulatory barriers (14.3%). Among the studied challenges, "others" had the most popularity among Nigerian professionals.

4.4 Resolving Challenges to Sustainable Construction in Nigeria

The studied population proposed several strategies to improve sustainable construction practices to promote sustainable construction practices in Nigeria. Top on the list is creating awareness in varied ways, including social media, books, magazines, and school curricula. Government intervention through policy development, taxation, research, and development was also one of the top proposed improvement strategies. The participants also proposed that increasing funds for sustainable construction could enhance sustainability in the industry. It is, however, essential to note that the largest proportion of the studied population (40.0%) did not propose any improvement strategy.

Table 4.5: Solutions to Sustainable Construction Challenges

How can the challenges be addressed to promote the widespread adoption of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria?

Tick all that applies 28 40.0%

Allocation of resources 1 1.4%

Creating awareness 10 14.3%

Education and training 1 1.4%

Engineers should implement sustainable practices in construction. 1 1.4%

Fighting corruption. 3 4.3%

Government intervention Research on sustainable practices among our citizens 7 10.0%

Importing cheaper construction materials 2 2.9%

Increase funding 6 8.6%

Not sure 1 1.4%

Practice what we read 1 1.4%

Price control 1 1.4%

Standardised, sustainable policies 3 4.3%

Strict regulation 2 2.9%

Use of locally available materials 2 2.9%

Visiting other states, observing sustainable practices they have adopted, and learning from them 1 1.4%

4.5 Effects of sustainable construction practices on project success

On average, Nigerian construction professionals perceive that sustainable construction enhances project success by 4.45/5, with a standard deviation of 0.78. Consequently, 60% of the studied population agrees with the statement that sustainable construction practices contribute to project success, and 24.3% agree with the statement. Notably, only 1.4% (1/70) disagreed with this statement.

Table 4.6: Relationship between sustainable construction and project success

4.6 The Future of Sustainable Construction in Nigeria

In your opinion, do sustainable construction practices contribute to project success?

N %

Agree 17 24.3%

Disagree 1 1.4%

Neutral 9 12.9%

Strongly Agree 42 60.0%

Figure 1: The future of sustainable construction in Nigeria

Will sustainable construction in Nigeria increase in th next five years? 2.9

21%

75%

Not Sure

Yes

The majority of construction industry professionals in Nigeria (75%) believe that the implementation of sustainable industries will increase in the next five years, while 21% are not sure. Additionally, 4% of the participants held that the practice would not improve between 2024 and 2029. Some of the trends that yield the projected improvement include technological advancement, enhanced awareness, and economic growth. Other contributors to the projected increase in sustainable construction are shown in Appendix 1.

Chapter Five: Discussion

5.1 Interpretation of Results

Survey results demonstrate that Nigerians in the construction sector are tending towards increased familiarity and cognizance with sustainable construction approaches. One interesting conclusion was that almost half of the respondents acknowledged having already developed certain eco-friendly habits. It may also be deduced that the desire to have eco-friendly development is scaling up since a much higher level of emphasis was put on it within the Nigerian construction sector. A quite considerable number of respondents said that they were carrying out sustainable activities in their work, and this is a very positive move.

Even though the financial implications and the barriers posed by the regulations are recognised, the attitude of the professionals who include sustainable practices represents a shift towards more environmentally responsible techniques. This shift is part of the bigger movement on the planet related to the growth of sustainable development and demonstrates the role of sustainability in the industry.

One of the probable causes of this trend is that people are beginning to understand real environmental problems and the need for sustainable solutions. The realisation of the gravity of global heating and environmental catastrophes is slowly but surely becoming a growing concern in the construction industry, and one that professionals are placing more heavily on their consciences (Green, 2023). This rising awareness is leading to sustainable performance, mainly for professionals who desire to reduce their ecosystem and contribute towards sustainability goals.

Furthermore, the introduction of sustainable policies through the force of regulations and market demands can also be the driving force. Governments are increasingly adopting strict regulations

and extra incentives to support sustainable construction (Saka et al., 2021). Professionals find themselves obliged to develop sustainable habits to stay in business and meet legal requirements (Mikołajczyk, 2021). Also, the wallet-friendly growth and customer demand for green buildings are compelling industrialists to include the green feature in their projects.

Moreover, the results show that builders and modular professionals who have long-term stays become aware of the long-term benefits of sustainable construction practices. Though some investors may need to face the initial cost as well as the challenge of sustainable practice adoption, they know what they invest will pay off in the future and, best of all, will support the performance of their projects and reputations. Practicing a sustainable approach provides leverage for professionals to lessen risks, become more resilient, and eventually design and put into use structures that are more eco-friendly and socially just (Kanji & Agrawal, 2020).

The evaluation of the data indicates that green construction practices are likely to become more common in Nigeria in the future. The professionalism, environmental awareness, and willingness to enhance productivity via sustainable practices measured by the current trend in the Nigerian construction sector give promise for the future of sustainable development (Olawale et al., 2023).

Though troubles like cost implications and legal barriers will persist, and therefore, sustainable construction cannot be limited. Stakeholders can apply interventions that are targeted, formal, and workable to suppress these challenges and build a resilient and sustainable community in Nigeria.

5.2 Comparison with Previous Research

The factors articulated in the current study are very similar to those investigated in prior work reported by Ogunmankinde et al. (2020) and Marut et al. (2020), and they all show the significant role of sustainability awareness in addressing issues around construction sustainability.

Ogunmakinde et al. (2020) discussed how circular economy principles can be used to achieve sustainable goals in the construction sector, pointing out the fact that all stakeholders should join the efforts to ensure environmentally friendly practices are fully implemented. For instance, the study by Marut et al. (2020) focused on the implementation of sustainable construction practices and recommended cooperation to overcome the barriers.

According to Ogunmakinde et al. (2020), the absence of sustainable materials and the inadequateness of the infrastructure are the barriers to the adoption of sustainable practices. The same problems as the topic research are there, since, along with other study findings, this research has also shown approval cost issues and regulations as the most notable hurdles.

Further, the two studies also highlighted the significance of government intervention and the adoption of supporting policies as factors in facilitating the introduction of sustainable construction practices.

Marut et al. (2020) have acknowledged the role of feasible solutions, like alternative materials, in assisting sustainable construction implementation. The study in hand supports the result, thus showing that the buyers are becoming aware of sustainable practices, but in actuality, they are not implementing the same practices in their groundwork. The focus on practical resolution demonstrates the necessity of doing things that are dealt with practically, so dealing with a need in a physical manner enables us to make progress.

Ultimately, the work of Aghimien et al. (2018) dispelled the irrational barriers to implementing sustainable methods of operating educational establishments in Nigeria. This research pointed out gaps that prevent the sustainability of the construction sector, for example, lack of information, inadequate laws, and organisational constraints. This evidence is aligned with the

problems highlighted in our current survey, all of which largely revolve around regulatory hurdles and knowledge gaps among professionals in this industry.

Similarly, Okoye et al. (2022) conducted research focusing on the risk implications of the successful adoption of green construction practices in Nigeria. They had shown the sector that creating sustainable innovations had many such dynamics and variables that were to be considered during the adoption process. The research highlighted that studying the factors leading to the popularisation of sustainable technologies and practices is an important preliminary step that must be taken before moving on to explore the feasibility of their widespread adoption, which explains the aim of the present study, which is the investigation of barriers to sustainability in the construction industry.

The comparison with previous research is a proof of the continuity of results in revealing the challenges and opportunities in promoting construction practices in Nigeria. Overall, it is apparent that the studies talk about the significance of cooperation among various stakeholders, including the government, construction industry, and researchers, for solving the barriers and generating significant achievements in the implementation of sustainability in the construction zone. The findings of this study expand on the previous one's discoveries and further advance the development of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria and around the world.

5.3 Implications of the Findings

The study's results have a significant impact on the stakeholders in Nigeria's construction sector. They also not only shed light on the present state of matter but offer assistance to the future pursuits that are involved in the portrayal of a sustainable environment within the industry.

construction industry. The cost aspect was also raised as one of the challenges that were found in the study: the expense that came with adopting sustainable practices. This thus bears testimony to the previous research of Zainul Abidin et al. (2020), which called for the use of monetary incentives and subsidies as a way of offsetting the highest initial investment costs. The government, assisted by its agencies in partnership with industry associations, can be great at giving financial support and incentives so as to bring about the adoption of environmentally sustainable practices. For example, tax credits or grants can be offered if green features are part of projects developed by these construction firms. In addition to the regulatory barriers, a lack of appropriate regulation also presents a major obstacle to the deployment of sustainable construction mechanisms in Nigeria. Rigid operational guidelines, lengthy procedures to go through, and confusion around the prescriptions of the guidelines might hinder the scope of construction professionals’ involvement in the sustainability agenda. Olawale et al. (2018) propose that state policies should incorporate reforms on regulatory barriers and have uniform and faster approvals. Consequently, public authorities need to slowly but gradually create new regulations so that they make it easier for the implementation of sustainable practices in construction projects. Consequently, the results underpin the significance of educational and awareness-creation programmes for an inclusive and permanent change in the construction industry. One of the obstacles to the widespread use of sustainable building, some professionals, as they may know, simply do not have the knowledge and skills to be able to implement them as efficiently as they ought to. As a result, training programmes, workshops, and educational campaigns should be run in order to facilitate the acquisition of the necessary knowledge and skills by professionals to derive maximum benefit from AI. These encompass multiple domains of sustainable building,

such as the construction of green structures, efficient layout strategies, and methods for

managing waste. Constantly exposing investors to the professional development of construction

specialists makes sustainability the core mission of the industry.

Also, collaboration among the stakeholders is critical for pushing the agenda to achieve

sustainable construction in Nigeria. Industry associations, academic institutions, government

bodies, and non-governmental organisations need to develop a joint understanding of the issues

by sharing their knowledge, carrying out research together, and sharing good practices. Research

conducted by Ekanayake et al. (2019) stresses the fundamental role of multi-stakeholder

partnerships in developing sustainability programmes in the construction sector. Partners and

suppliers, with the help of cross-fertilisation of knowledge and joint work, can use each other’s

competencies and resources to break the barriers and accept innovations into their everyday

activities.

The implications of the results of this study emphasise the multifaceted nature of fostering

sustainable construction in Nigeria. In order to deal with the budget dump and legislation

restrictions, one needs cooperation with government offices and business organizations.

Therefore, providing funds for education and awareness-raising programmes is of great

importance in developing among the construction professionals the ability to commit to the

sustainability initiatives that they have to implement. With these recommendations, the relevant

stakeholders can lead to designs and construction that are both as sustainable and as resilient as

possible.

5.4 Limitations and Weaknesses

The use of self-reported data as a data source leads to a significant limitation for this research.

The data collected by self-reporting techniques, either through questionnaires or surveys, is

likely to be subject to many types of biases, which may be rooted in the human inability to retain memories or perceive events accurately. This might be the scenario if the result of questionnaires is influenced by social desirability bias, where a person may exaggerate the degree of their awareness or practice of sustainable behaviour to gain acceptance from society. Furthermore, respondents doubt their own accuracy in recollecting the events or their behaviours, which could result in response errors and inconsistencies. This creates a source of uncertainty in the data obtained, which may negatively influence the findings regarding the reliability and validity of the study (Gosling et al., 2003).

The other major obstacle is that the sample is comprised of 70 individuals, which is relatively small. Though the sample size may be adequate for exploratory or preliminary studies, such a number cannot so well represent the intricacies and diversification of the Nigerian construction industry. A larger sample size will increase the statistical power and facilitate the association of

the findings with the rest of the population of construction professionals operating in Nigeria.

Furthermore, a larger sample size will provide more opportunity to carry out robust group analysis, even among people of differing socioeconomic status or professional backgrounds (Schoenfeld, 2013).

The determination of these limitations is fundamental to reseach aiming to provide new insights into sustainable construction in Nigeria. Utilisation of multi-method approaches that include both subjective data gathering methods (self-reported data) and objective measures (observational assessments or archival records) can boost the validity and reliability of the findings by way of triangulation of multiple sources of information (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2017). In addition, research to be carried out should be focused on expanding the size of the sample and the diversity of the participants so that a detailed and comprehensive investigation can be carried out

on the impact of sustainable construction methods in the Nigerian context. The participation of researchers, industrialists, and governments in their endeavours will enable the creation of a large and mixed pool of participants, which in turn will enhance the empirical foundation for devising policy and practice in green construction.

Although this study adds more weight to the sustainable construction methods in Nigeria, it is crucial to point out and work on their limitations. Researchers can improve their methods if they realise the issues with self-reported data and small sample sizes. This can prepare them for future research that gives more realistic and generalizable results. This is indeed greatly important for the development of knowledge and the practice of sustainable development within the construction sector in Nigeria.

Chapter Six: Conclusion and Recommendations

6.1 Recapitulation of the Research Question/Hypothesis

The central focus of this study has been to examine the issue of sustainable construction methods in the Nigerian construction industry. The purpose of the research work was to concentrate on awareness-building, implementation, and the perceived effect of sustainability. The research is intended to clarify the surrounding landscape of sustainability in this sector. Through a careful questionnaire design and data processing of responses from Nigerian construction industry professionals, the investigation aimed at bringing to light trends, obstacles, and partially or fully deviated ways.

In the Nigerian construction industry, the research objective was aimed at identifying the level of familiarity of practitioners with sustainable practices, the rate at which these practices are being implemented in the projects, and the perceived effects of such applications on the success of the projects. The aim of this set-up wasn't just to find out about the current challenges but also to find out how to fix these challenges and intervene if needed.

The construction industry in Nigeria performs a great task in the area of construction and in the economic, social, and ecological fields. Therefore, knowing the state of green construction in Nigeria is both irreducible and indispensable. Through detailed consideration of hints and the conclusion of the research, this chapter makes a stand for thorough analysis of the results and their contribution to the field of the industry.

Finally, the study aimed to add to the knowledge base regarding sustainability in construction design in Nigeria. This undertaking will give policymakers, industry stakeholders, and construction practitioners useful suggestions from which they can draw. This analysis engages

mindfulness, plans, and perceived effect diversity options for the Nigerian construction industry

towards sustainability through enlightening strategies and initiatives.

6.2 Summary of Key Findings

The study's findings shed light on several critical aspects of sustainable construction practices in

Nigeria:

High Awareness and Familiarity: One of the important results of this research is that

professionals in the Nigerian construction industry are full of competence and knowledge of

building with a green approach. The fact that a large number of respondents said they were quite

or moderately sustainability-oriented was really impressive. Thus, the field of fashion

sustainability must have a sufficient existing knowledge of sustainable practice that could be

granulated to faster implementation of the green technologies developed for the fashion industry.

Challenges Persist: Understanding the factors behind the widespread acceptance and

implementation will definitely facilitate the actualization of environmentally friendly

construction technologies in the country. Many challenges prevail; for instance, the

disadvantages of additional costs, the absence of informed stakeholders' participation, and the

unwillingness of regulatory authorities to regulate the production processes remain obstacles.

The study results are exemplary of the calling for specialised intervention allegiances in which

they can assist in surmounting the challenges preventing the spread of sustainable construction

practices from the industry to a broad range of areas.

Perceived Impact: However, notwithstanding the difficulties, the vast majority of the

professionals surveyed in the study state that a sustainable construction process enhances project

success. The endorsement of this kind of sustainability, therefore, shows the contractor's good

understanding of the possible impacts that sustainability can have on construction projects in

Nigeria, from environmental performance to social responsibility to economic vitality. This recognition is significant since the statement says that the industry has become receptive and supportive of sustainability now that the right drive and resources have been discovered.

The study's findings reveal the extent of Nigeria's sustainable construction practices and provide profound insights into them. Although a strong ground-swell is seen among organisations in the knowledge of the advantages of sustainability, there still persist pertinent problems that need to be solved for those enabling processes focusing on wider adoption and implementation. These challenges can also be understood, and one can take advantage of the perceived benefits of sustainability by stakeholders in the Nigerian construction industry to implement the principle of sustainability in building projects.

6.3 Contributions to the Field

This study contributes significantly to the existing literature on sustainable construction practices in Nigeria in the following ways:

1. Empirical Evidence

Sustaining a structured survey among Nigerian construction professionals is an important data collection tool that gives an exact picture of the implementation of sustainable construction practices, the extent of awareness of such practices, and their perceived impact. Before this study, there was no factual data available on these elements, which complicated the accurate monitoring of the level of sustainability of the Nigerian construction industry. Due to the fact that the research is being conducted, there is a possibility of assessing the level of sustainability of the Indian construction industry. Bridging this gap, the study represents a basis for subsequent research and the involvement of concerned governments in making policies.

The study reveals important barriers for Nigerian construction professionals dealing with the challenge of sustainable construction. The study results show problems like budget shortages, responsible knowledge, and regulatory barriers, which are the key obstacles the construction industry has to fight against in order to promote sustainability. Therefore, it is possible to create policy even by small states through appropriate utilisation of it by these stakeholders.

3. Highlighting Opportunities

Along with the challenges, the study also points us towards the future pathways for making sustainable construction in Nigeria possible. Such options include enlarging the government's influence through legislative processes and implementing policies, enhancing stakeholders' perceptions by creating awareness among them, and making more investments in educational projects and on-the-job training programs. Having them mentioned in the study, then, indicates a definite direction for all the actors to follow and to eventually bring about a change in the sector.

4. Practical Implications

The practical implications of the empirical evidence, identification of challenges, and highlighting of opportunities outlined in this study are for administrators, industry stakeholders, and construction professionals. Policymakers can use the capitalization findings to develop regulations and policies that guide the promotion, adoption, and implementation of sustainable construction practices. Industry players should exploit this information by designing policy-guided actions to address challenges and seize the plethora of opportunities. Building experts can

benefit from this research by understanding the current sustainability status of the sector and identifying areas in their practices where they can make changes or developments.

6.4 Recommendations

6.4.1 Recommendations for Future Research

Moving forward, future research into sustainable building in Nigeria must give priority to longitudinal studies, which would track the implementation of practical measures on and off over time. Through tracking the life cycle of construction projects from initiation to completion, researchers are able to determine the sustainability of the practices being followed, which, in turn, provides them with indispensable insights into the long-term outcomes of the effects on the environment, social, and economic outcomes, among others (Zhao et al., 2018). Longitudinal studies would enable the exploration of the trends that will facilitate or hinder the use of sustainable construction practices and identify the factors that would encourage or constrain the integration of sustainable habits into the main construction process (Ferreira et al., 2020). Besides, the future study should aim at solving the sustainable construction challenges in Nigeria by inventing new and creative methodologies. However, research may need to be undertaken to identify the potential of upcoming technologies like Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital fabrication, among others, that might improve sustainability in construction (Akindele et al., 2023). In addition, Olawumi& Chan (2022) suggests conducting research on policy interventions and regulatory frameworks to promote sustainable construction, taking into account the adverse impacts of cost and regulatory linkages.

Research involving multiple fields and conducted by various cross-cutting teams can provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges the Nigerian construction sector faces. Such research teams will draw members from varied disciplines such as engineering, al., 2023). In addition, Olawumi& Chan (2022) suggests conducting research on policy interventions and regulatory frameworks to promote sustainable construction, taking into account the adverse impacts of cost and regulatory linkages.

architecture, environmental science, economics, and policy studies so that the developing sustainability ideas will be comprehensive and devoid of ignorance of any of the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental factors (Aghimien et al., 2019). Such collaborative efforts could lead to the development of composite strategies for sustainable construction, which often address the conflict between environmental protection, economic development, and social equality.

The main direction of future sustainable construction research in Nigeria should be a drive for the finding of solutions to real-world problems and, at the same time, the development of mutual knowledge of the way to have sustainable development in the construction sector. One way research institutions can effect change to make the construction industry in Nigeria truly sustainable and future-proof is to inspire this by prioritising studies of the sector over time and by using cutting-edge solutions.

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Appendices

Appendix 1: Sustainable Construction Practice Improvement Strategies

Not indicated 28 40.0

The adaptability of Nigerian citizens to the new and changing design of construction increases with the rise of the middle-class group, and a lot of people have access to sustainable materials 1 1.4

Awareness 1 1.4

Awareness of the importance of sustainable practices Use of locally available materials 1 1.4

Cost implications 1 1.4

Creating awareness of the importance of sustainable practices and lowering the cost of renewable materials used in construction 1 1.4

Creating a policy that supports sustainable construction practices 1 1.4

Current trends in sustainable practices Adaptability of people to changes in sustainable practices 1 1.4

Economic, environmental, and social practices that enhance sustainable practices among our people 1 1.4

The economic growth of our client Rising in the middle-class category 1 1.4

The economic growth of our country, which increases our GDP, results in the affordability of sustainable practices 1 1.4

Economic sustainability Environmental sustainability Social and cultural respect 1 1.4

Fighting corruption in construction agencies Mandatory policies in construction that enhance sustainable practices 1 1.4

Formulating a sustainability practice plan. Social responsibility 1 1.4

Funding and Awareness 1 1.4

Good government and governance practices 1 1.4

Good regulations and policies 1 1.4

Government policies and implementation by experts in the construction industry 1 1.4

The government should promote sustainable practices in the school curriculum. Mass education on sustainable practices Mass awareness of the importance of sustainable practices 1 1.4

I think several factors will influence the future adoption of sustainable construction practices in Nigeria. One key factor is the growing global awareness of environmental issues and the need for sustainable development. As people become more conscious of the impact of construction on the environment, there will be a greater demand for sustainable practices. Another factor is government policies and regulations. If the government implements supportive policies and provides incentives for sustainable construction, it can encourage the industry to adopt these practices. Additionally, advancements in technology and the availability of sustainable building materials will play a role in shaping the future of sustainable construction in Nigeria. 1 1.4

Implementation of regulatory policies Fighting corruption to reduce construction practices that don't meet standards 1 1.4

Improved infrastructure development Political stability 1 1.4

Making it part of our culture to drive sustainable construction practices to go green 1 1.4

mass education on sustainable practices. 1 1.4

More Awareness 1 1.4

Not sure 1 1.4

Political factors, through government intervention Economic factors Environmental factors such as changes in climate 1 1.4

Political stability will greatly influence more sustainable practices. Reduced terrorism practicum 1 1.4

The positive effects of sustainable practices, such as improved safety, will result in many people adopting the strategy. 1 1.4

Proper Education 1 1.4

Proper regulation 1 1.4

Reduced construction costs. Increased safety 1 1.4

Regular supervision by construction authorities is needed to ensure policies are followed and those who defy the law appreciate the measures to be taken. 1 1.4

Resources and Government Policy 1 1.4

Resulting benefits of sustainable practices, which result in more savings 1 1.4

Support by the government and other non-governmental organisations 1 1.4

Sustainable construction practices are being taught at school. 1 1.4

Technology expansion 6 8.6

Total 70 100.0