Analysing Material Management Approaches and Their Effects on Construction Project Performance in Nigeria (A Study of Akwa Ibom Real Estate Sector)

Abstract

The real estate market in Nigeria has seen impressive growth, largely driven by urbanization and improvements in infrastructure, with Akwa Ibom State playing a pivotal role in this development. One of the key elements that can make or break a construction project is effective material management, as it has a direct effect on costs, timelines, and overall quality. This study dives into the material management strategies used in Akwa Ibom's real estate sector and evaluates how well they work in boosting project outcomes. To gather insights, we used a mixed-methods approach that included semi-structured interviews with 20 stakeholders—like project managers, procurement officers, and suppliers—along with a thorough analysis of procurement documents and project performance data. The research uncovered several common strategies, including just-in-time delivery, vendor-managed inventory, and RFID integration, with just-in-time delivery and RFID standing out for their positive effects on project costs, time efficiency, and quality. However, we also found that issues like logistical disruptions, tech limitations, and delays in material deliveries can really throw a wrench in the works. To tackle these challenges, the study suggests adopting advanced technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and RFID, fostering better collaboration among stakeholders, and investing in training programs to enhance material management practices. These insights can be incredibly useful for stakeholders looking to improve construction project performance and add to the growing knowledge on material management in developing economies.