Enhancing Construction Claims and Dispute Resolution in the Nigerian Building Sector: Insights from Thematic Analysis.

Abstract

The study investigates the mechanisms of construction claims and dispute resolution within the Nigerian building sector, employing a thematic analysis to uncover insights that could enhance these processes. The research methodology involved semi-structured interviews with professionals from leading construction companies in Abuja, Nigeria. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, ensuring they possessed relevant experience in managing construction claims and disputes. The data collected was rigorously analyzed using thematic analysis, which facilitated the identification of prevalent challenges and the evaluation of current dispute resolution methods. The findings reveal that contractual ambiguities, communication failures, and cultural differences are the primary sources of disputes, leading to significant project delivery issues such as cost overruns, schedule delays, and quality defects. Traditional dispute resolution methods, including negotiation, arbitration, and litigation, are commonly utilized, yet the study identifies a notable gap in the adoption of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) techniques. Barriers to ADR implementation, such as lack of awareness and trust among professionals, were highlighted. The study contributes to knowledge by providing a comprehensive understanding of the dispute sources and by evaluating the effectiveness of existing resolution methods. It also offers strategic recommendations for the development of a structured framework for claims management, tailored to the Nigerian context. The implications of this research are far-reaching, suggesting improvements in contractual clarity, communication training, and policy reforms that could significantly benefit the construction industry.