Private Project Delivery Under Current Procurement Systems in Nigeria

Private construction projects in Nigeria continue to face delays, cost overruns, coordination problems and quality concerns. Procurement systems shape contractual relationships, allocation of responsibilities, communication and project control, and may therefore influence delivery outcomes. This study assessed current procurement systems used in private construction projects in Nigeria, the factors guiding their selection, the challenges associated with implementation, and perceived relationships with cost, time and quality performance. A descriptive survey was conducted among construction professionals in Lagos and Ibadan. Of 143 questionnaires distributed, 105 valid responses were returned, giving a response rate of 73.4%. Stratified and purposive sampling were used. Data were analysed in SPSS using frequencies, percentages, mean scores, rankings and Pearson correlation. Design and Build had the highest reported adoption mean (3.42), followed by Traditional Procurement (3.35) and Negotiated Procurement (3.21); Integrated Project Delivery had the lowest mean (2.16). Availability of project funds (4.29), project complexity (4.28) and project size (4.27) were the strongest reported procurement-selection factors. Project delays (4.20), cost overruns (4.04) and poor coordination (3.95) were prominent challenges. Respondents rated procurement-related scheduling/programme management at 4.15, specification compliance at 4.08 and cost control at 4.03. Overall performance was positively associated with cost (r = 0.253, p = 0.009), time (r = 0.517, p < 0.001) and quality (r = 0.591, p < 0.001). The study concludes that procurement choices should align with project financing, complexity, size and quality requirements, supported by effective planning, contract administration and stakeholder coordination.