Oluwaseyi Alabi Awodele

An Evaluation of Personnel Training Policies of Construction Companies in Nigeria

Abstract Construction companies are the engines that propel the construction sector of any nation’s economy, and are therefore expected to vigorously train their workforce to effectively match this responsibility. This study investigates the personnel training policies of construction companies in Nigeria. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from two categories of respondents namely, the technical and managerial personnel using simple random sampling technique. They were analyzed using the basic descriptive and inferential statistical tools. Spearman rank correlation was used to test the level of agreement between the two categories of personnel on the methods of training in their companies. Findings reveal among others that there is a disparity in the training policies of most companies regarding both categories of staff and did not favour the technical personnel. On-the-job training is the most effective method of staff development in the companies. The research has provided insight into key areas that require urgent action at the strategic level of management. Specifically, it has brought into focus perceived disparity between the level of training accorded the lower and higher cadre personnel.

Investigation into the causes of delay in land acquisition for PPP projects in developing countries

Purpose The land is a critical resource for public-private partnerships (PPPs) in infrastructure development. However, acquisition of land for PPP infrastructure projects implementation increasingly becomes problematic in developing countries. Yet, effort at investigating the factors causing a delay in land acquisition for PPP infrastructure projects through an empirical method in developing countries received scant attention. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify and critically assess the factors predisposing PPP projects implementation to land acquisition delay in Nigeria using an empirical approach. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted literature review and questionnaire survey. For instance, literature review was used to identify the factors causing delay in land acquisition for PPP projects in developing countries, which was used to design the questionnaire survey culminating in data analysis. To capture a broad perception, the questionnaires were administered to three different primary stakeholder groups comprised public sector authorities (i.e. ministries, department, agencies), concessionaires and lenders/banks involved in PPP projects implementation in Nigeria. Data collected were analysed using mean score, Kruskal–Wallis test and factor analysis. Findings The study revealed the mean score ranking of 22 identified factors causing a delay in land acquisition for PPP projects in Nigeria. The result of factor analysis grouped the 22 identified factors into 4 principal factors, namely, resettlement issues with political interference; non-availability of land with a higher cost of land transactions; weak planning institutions; and rehabilitation issues with extensive legal delays. Practical implications These study findings have implications for both policymakers considering PPP projects and private investors seeking to finance a PPP project in developing countries. Also, the study findings would be useful for the governments in Nigeria and other developing countries to formulate clear policies framework that facilitates the smooth acquisition of land for PPP projects. Originality/value The study will be beneficial to the potential local and foreign private investors and governments by broadening their awareness on impediments in land acquisition for PPP projects in Nigeria and developing countries at large. These study findings are crucial, as not many empirical studies have been conducted in Nigeria and many other developing countries.

Appraising the use of labour-only procurement system for building construction in Nigeria

Abstract Labour-only procurement system is gaining fast popularity among construction clients who want to make savings by procuring materials themselves, leaving the contractor to provide only the labour needed. This study, therefore, appraised this procurement system by assessing its cost performance, its suitability, construction participant’s willingness to use it for subsequent projects and its merits and demerits. Using a survey design approach through the use of questionnaire and a pro forma, data were gathered from a total of 98 construction professionals and contractors who have been involved in the use of this procurement system. Analyses of data were done using percentage, mean item score, Mann–Whitney U test and paired samples t-test. The study revealed that this procurement system is best for procuring residential buildings and minor alteration works. Construction participants who have used this system before are willing to still use it for subsequent works, as it delivers projects within budget and discourages short-changing of specifications and standard by contractors. However, the need for the time commitment and reduction in contractor’s profit are its major disadvantages. For its cost performance, an overall cost saving of about 2% was discovered for the assessed 32 projects. The findings of this study will be beneficial to various interest groups such as clients and estate developers in selecting the right procurement option to use.