ROOT CAUSES AND IMPACT OF INADEQUATE SCOPE DEFINITION IN THE NIGERIAN CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

The Nigerian construction industry plays a pivotal role in economic growth, yet it faces significant challenges, including project delays, cost overruns, and compromised quality. This study investigates the root causes and impact of inadequate scope definition in the Nigerian construction industry, aiming to provide actionable insights for improving project outcomes. A mixed-method approach was adopted, with data collected from 285 professionals across major construction firms via structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were employed to identify key factors contributing to inadequate scope definition and their associated impacts. The findings reveal that unclear project objectives, inadequate stakeholder engagement, and insufficient planning are the primary contributors to scope mismanagement. These issues correlate strongly (R=0.87) with project delays, cost escalations, and quality compromises. Figures, including a regression graph showing the relationship between scope definition and delays, pie charts summarizing causes, and bar charts illustrating impacts, provide visual support for these results. The study concludes that effective scope management practices, such as early stakeholder involvement and the use of advanced tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM), are critical for mitigating these challenges. Detailed recommendations are provided to enhance scope clarity, improve stakeholder alignment, and reduce project risks. By addressing these issues, the Nigerian construction industry can achieve more efficient project execution and deliver higher-quality outcomes, ultimately fostering economic growth and infrastructure development.