Integration of augmented reality in construction practice in Enugu state, Nigeria

Emerging digital technologies increasingly influence the construction sector in Nigeria; however, the adoption of Augmented Reality (AR) remains limited. This study investigated the awareness and knowledge level, accessibility, and readiness for AR adoption in construction practice in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was adopted, and a structured questionnaire was administered to 247 participants, including architects, engineers, project managers, construction firm owners, and vendors of digital construction tools. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the results, which revealed patterns in awareness, perceived benefits, barriers to AR adoption, and exposure to pilot cases of AR application. Findings revealed that while a majority of professionals are aware of AR (65.6%), the respondents reported very low knowledge of AR applications (18.6%). High costs (37.3%), lack of technical expertise (25.9%), and inadequate digital infrastructure (19.4%) were identified as the major barriers hindering adoption. Despite these challenges, respondents expressed strong support for future investment in AR, highlighting training (35.6%), financial support (30.8%), infrastructural improvement (16.6%), and awareness campaigns (6.1%) as necessary solutions. The study contributes to AR adoption in construction practice by bringing to the fore perceived benefits, barriers, and how architects, engineers, project managers, construction firm owners, among others, may leverage AR for improved efficiency, communication, and collaboration. The study recommends collaborative interventions between professional bodies, government, and relevant stakeholders in the construction industry to accelerate AR adoption in construction practice, positioning Enugu as a model for digital innovation in the built environment.