Analysis of Stakeholder management of construction projects in Abuja, Nigeria.

Abstract

The structure of the Nigerian construction industry is very complex in nature and consists of a wide range of parties. The aim of this paper is to analyse stakeholder management in construction projects in Abuja, with the view to improve construction projects performance. This study identifies and assesses barriers to stakeholder management in construction projects and determines critical success factors influencing stakeholder management and the delivery of construction projects. The paper employed a qualitative research design approach through semi- structured interviews. 30 construction professionals interviewed were purposively selected based on their experience. Content analysis was used to analyse information gotten from them. The study identified 25 barriers affecting stakeholder management and 14 critical factors influencing successful stakeholder management through interview carried out. The factors and barriers frequency mentioned during the interview were ranked. “Poor knowledge of stakeholder management procedure” and “lack of proper stakeholder management procedures” were the highest mentioned barriers affecting stakeholder management. Effective Communication emerged the highest ranked critical factor for successful stakeholder management. The study concluded that there is need to pay special attention to the above barriers and recommends appropriate strategies one of which is appropriate stakeholder analysis and engagement process within consulting project management firms managing project stakeholders.