CRITICAL CONSTRUCTION RESOURCES, PROCUREMENT RISKS, AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES: A STUDY OF SMALL AND MEDIUM FIRMS IN ABUJA, NIGERIA.

Abstract

Small and medium-sized construction firms (SMSCFs) in Nigeria face persistent challenges in procuring essential resources due to market volatility, weak institutional support, and limited capacity. This study investigates the critical construction resources required by SMSCFs in Abuja, the risks associated with their procurement, and the strategies adopted to manage those risks. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through structured questionnaires from 85 construction professionals and interviews with 12 project managers. Descriptive statistics tools such as mean and Relative Importance Index (RII) were used to analyse quantitative data, while qualitative data were thematically interpreted. Findings show that construction materials, labour, and finance are the most critical resources, while price volatility, supply chain disruptions, and unreliable vendors are the leading risks. Procurement practices are largely informal, with firms relying on requests for quotations, direct purchases, and subcontracting. Risk mitigation strategies include supplier prequalification, diversified sourcing, and contractual clauses, though the use of digital tools and structured frameworks remains low. The study concludes that procurement among SMSCFs is reactive and experience-driven, highlighting the need for institutional reforms, capacity building, and the adoption of formal risk management systems to improve procurement efficiency and project outcomes.