Assessment of Procurement System Selection Criteria for Public Infrastructure Projects in Nigeria

Abstract

In the public sector, project success or failure is often directly tied to the procurement approach underpinning the contract. Given the varieties of procurement options available, choosing the best procurement strategy for a given construction project can be challenging. In order to help the client, identify the most suitable procurement techniques, various procurement selection variables are available. This study assessed the selection criteria for three construction procurement options commonly used in the Nigerian construction industry. A quantitative survey approach was adopted to obtain data from professionals in the public sector involved in the management, design and operations of construction projects in Lagos and Abuja. A total of 411 questionnaires were distributed, 216 were returned and found suitable for the analysis conducted. The data were analysed using descriptive statistical methods by employing relative importance index to develop a procurement path decision chart. Size of projects, nature of projects as well as authority and government policies were found to be the most important selection criteria for all the procurement options based on the findings of the study presented in this paper. The study concluded that Public Private Partnership is more favourable in delivering public infrastructure. The findings have practical implications for government and agencies to consider when selecting the appropriate procurement method, which can lead to enhanced public infrastructure project delivery.