THE ROLE OF QUANTITY SURVEYORS IN INTEGRATING AI-DRIVEN IOT SYSTEMS FOR COST OPTIMISATION IN SMART CITY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT The construction industry in Nigeria grapples with cost overruns and inefficiencies in smart city projects, where traditional quantity surveying methods fall short in addressing the demands of modern urban infrastructure. This study explores the role of quantity surveyors in integrating artificial intelligence (AI)-driven Internet of Things (IoT) systems to optimize costs in smart city construction. Using a descriptive survey design, quantitative data were gathered from 106 construction professionals, including quantity surveyors, architects, civil engineers, geographers, and technology experts, through a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, multiple regression, and principal component analysis (PCA) using SPSS. Results indicate moderate familiarity (Mean = 3.48) and partial integration (Mean = 3.03) of AI/IoT systems among quantity surveyors, with Building Information Modeling (BIM) (59.4%), AI-based cost estimation (50.9%), and IoT sensors (45.3%) widely adopted for cost estimation (62.3%) and budget control (56.6%). AI/IoT integration achieved cost savings of 11– 20% for 36.8% of respondents and enhanced decision-making accuracy (Mean = 3.62), with integration predicting cost reduction (R² = 0.15). Major challenges include high costs (71.7%), skill gaps (62.3%), data privacy concerns (49.1%), and poor infrastructure (45.3%). These findings highlight AI/IoT’s potential to transform cost management in smart city projects, despite barriers in Nigeria, and emphasize quantity surveyors’ evolving role in digital adoption. The study contributes empirical evidence from a developing country, recommending targeted training to bridge skill gaps and infrastructure investments to support sustainable and cost- effective smart city development.