APPRAISING THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE QUANTITY SURVEYING PROFESSION TO HIGHWAY PROJECTS COST MANAGEMENT IN SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

This study investigates the contribution of the Quantity surveying (QS) profession to highway project cost management in Southeast Nigeria. A sample of 120 quantity surveyors from Abia, Ebonyi, and Enugu states were consulted to assess their roles in highway projects on different stages. The data collected were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The reliability test for this study was conducted using Cronbach’s coefficient Alpha, the alpha value derived from each objective indicates a figure greater than 0.7. The finding confirmed that while QS professionals perform a multifaceted role, their involvement is varied and often insufficient, particularly in the pre- and post-contract stage. High involvement and effectiveness of the QS were observed for traditional functions like cost estimation, but engagement with strategic tasks such as value engineering was found to be significantly lower. The extent of QS involvement was highly influenced by client awareness and regulatory measures. The study concludes that inconsistent QS integration is a key constraint on optimal project delivery. It is recommended that regulatory reform, mandating comprehensive QS involvement, and targeted client education be implemented to fully leverage QS expertise, standardize practice, and drive enhanced cost management, transparency, and overall project delivery in the Nigerian civil engineering sector.