Impact of Existing Skilled Manpower Supply on Effective Project Delivery in Building Construction in South-East Nigeria

The construction sector in South-East Nigeria faces significant challenges due to inadequate skilled manpower, which affects project delivery in terms of cost, time, and quality. This study examines the impact of existing skilled manpower supply on effective project delivery in the building construction industry. Using a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 393 respondents, including trainees, contractors, and representatives from vocational training centres, through questionnaires and interviews. Relative Importance Index (RII) analysis identified shortage of apprenticeship opportunities (RII = 0.679), low turnover rate among skilled workers (RII = 0.670), and poor working conditions (RII = 0.655) as the most critical factors affecting project performance. ANOVA results revealed no significant differences in perceptions among the stakeholder groups (F(2,174) = 2.003, p = 0.139), indicating consensus on the importance of skilled manpower. Interview findings corroborated quantitative results, emphasizing that inadequate training, low wages, and manpower instability negatively impact project outcomes. Based on these findings, it is recommended that structured apprenticeship programs be strengthened, training and development initiatives enhanced, remuneration and working conditions improved, and policy support for vocational and technical education intensified. Implementing these measures will promote workforce stability, skill acquisition, and overall efficiency in project delivery.