Omoregie, I. I. and Aigbavboa, C. O. (2026) Exploring strategies for strengthening stakeholder communication to advance sustainable construction practices in the Nigerian built environment. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, 33(15), pp. 414-431. ISSN 0969-9988
Abstract
Purpose – With the increasing focus on sustainability, effective communication among stakeholders in the Nigerian built environment is essential for the successful execution of projects. However, there is a lack of academic literature addressing this issue. Therefore, this study aims to explore strategies for strengthening communication among stakeholders to promote sustainable construction practices within Nigeria's built environment. Design/methodology/approach – This research adopted an interpretivist philosophical approach, which informed the use of a qualitative method to collect data. Interviews were conducted in Abuja and Lagos to investigate strategies for improving communication among stakeholders. Participants were asked to respond to specific research questions. A total of 25 semi-structured interviews were carried out with informed stakeholders. The collected data were analysed thematically, and the findings were organised into themes. Findings – The results indicated a strong relationship between effective communication with stakeholders and the successful implementation of sustainable construction practices. Key factors identified include transparency, the frequency of communication and participatory approaches, all of which play a crucial role in enhancing stakeholder relationships. The findings also pointed to challenges in effective communication and proposed strategies to address these challenges. Originality/value – This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence on the importance of stakeholder communication in promoting sustainability in the construction industry, particularly in Nigeria. This study offers practical recommendations for construction stakeholders to strengthen their communication strategies, which can lead to enhanced project outcomes and a more sustainable industry.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | communication; stakeholder; sustainable construction |
| Index terms: | project outcome, Nigeria, built environment, Lagos, stakeholder communication, transparency, implementation, construction industry, sustainable construction, participatory approach, sustainable construction practice, interview, qualitative method, strategy, strengthening, evidence, methodology, Abuja, body of knowledge |
| Subjects: | management, professional development, infrastructure and transport systems, industry analysis, data collection methods, research design and methodology, structural engineering, research methods, Geography, sustainable construction, evaluation and assessment methods, project completion, contractual arrangements, knowledge management |
| Topics: | Geographical Context, Project Management, Engineering Principles, Procurement, Sustainability, Urban Studies, Research Practice, Information Management, Business Strategy |
| Descriptive scope: | 5 PCTEA |
N.B. Descriptive scope is a count of how many of the five facets of empirical research are indicated by the words used in title, abstract and keywords. It is not intended as a judgement on the research; merely a count of the kind of word we would expect to indicate Phenomenon, Concepts, Theoretical framing, Empirical techniques, Analytical techniques. If all five are present, then a code of “5 PCTEA” will indicate this. If you feel the coding for this record is questionable, we welcome discussion around the terms we matched or the way we categorized them. The facet you would expect may not be coded, or a facet may be coded inappropriately. This can also bear on a larger question, of which facets should be treated as defining in construction management research. Please get in touch, and we will look at it. More details here