THE IMPACT OF CONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT CAPABILITY ON TIME PERFORMANCE OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IN NIGERIA

This research investigates the impact of contractor’s management capability of time performance of construction project in Nigeria. The study identified factors influencing contractors management capability on time performance, the effects of these factors, and suggest how the effects of these factors be minimized. Quantitative approach was adopted for this study, a total of 77 questionnaires were administered, out of this 60 were returned valid. Five point likert scale was used In-depth interviews with industry experts and quantitative data analysis utilizing statistical tools such as SPSS 23 software, enabling the calculation of essential metrics such as weighted mean, standard deviation, standard error, respondent percentages, and variance provide a comprehensive understanding of the decision-making complexities. Findings showed that technical and managerial competence, financial capacity, cash flow management, project management technology, adequate human resources, and effective stakeholder communication are the most critical determinants of timely project delivery, while regulatory and environmental factors play secondary roles. The study further revealed that inadequate contractor capability results in project delays, cost overruns, financial losses, reduced safety and quality, and frequent disputes, ultimately damaging stakeholder relationships and undermining national development goals. To minimize these effects, the study identified key improvement measures such as capacity building, adoption of modern project management technologies, strengthened financial planning, enhanced communication, rigorous contractor prequalification, early risk-based planning, and performance-based contracting. These strategies underscore the need for continuous professional development, digital transformation, and structured performance monitoring to improve time performance in Nigerian construction projects.