ASSESSMENT OF ADOPTION OF SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION PRINCIPLES IN RECONSTRUCTION OF ABUJA-KADUNA-KANO HIGHWAY

This study assessed sustainable construction practices adopted during the reconstruction of the Abuja-Kaduna- Kano Highway. The objectives were evaluate the selection of service providers, examine the implementation of sustainable construction practices and identify constraints to their adoption. Data were collected through questionnaires involving key project stakeholders, including clients, consultants, and contractors. Of the 56 questionnaires distributed, 50 valid responses were received. The collected data were analyzed using mean scores and standard deviations based on a 5-point Likert scale. The findings indicated that the most significant criterion for selecting service providers was the requirement in procurement documents to employ qualified construction professionals, with a mean score of 4.70. The study further revealed that the most important sustainable construction practice was the testing and verification of project outputs by competent third parties in collaboration with project owners and users, which recorded a mean score of 4.90. Lack of awareness emerged as the major constraint to the implementation of sustainable construction practices, with the highest mean score of 4.96. The study concludes that sustainable construction is currently perceived as a quality assurance tool rather than a core value. Its implementation is paralyzed by widespread ignorance, and the most effective lever for change is revising procurement laws to mandate sustainable compliances. It recommends incorporating competency requirements in procurement documents and promoting awareness programs to enhance the adoption of sustainable construction practices in road infrastructure projects.