C. P. Ogbu

Construction projects are frequently affected by labour-related problems that disrupt project delivery and reduce overall performance. This study examined labour-related factors affecting construction project performance in Edo State. It evaluated the frequency and severity of labourrelated factors, ascertained differences in the severity of labour-related factors on the performance of construction projects and determined the influence of labour-related factors on project cost performance in Edo State. A quantitative research approach was employed through the administration of a structured questionnaire to professionals in contracting firms such as architects, builders, M&E engineers, quantity surveyors, civil and structural engineers. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Kruskal Wallis H test to determine, differences in the effects of labour-related factors on project cost performance in Edo State. The findings reveal that, the most frequent and severe labour-related factor affecting project cost performance is time management. The severity of most labour-related factors do not differ for different firm sizes and cost performance levels. However, the severity of occupational education level and experience was observed to be significantly different among micro, small and medium construction firms. While training was observed to be significantly different for different cost performance levels. The study recommends that micro construction firms should employ highly skilled and experienced labourers. The study demonstrated the contribution of labour-related factors to construction cost performance.

The construction industry has been plagued by the issue of payment delay. This study examined the effects of payment delay on construction projects in Benin City, Edo State with a view to enhancing contractors’ projects cash flow. The data for this study was gotten through the response to the administered structured questionnaire. The data obtained was analyzed using the mean item score, this answered the question of this study through the research objectives; to; identify the causes of payment delay on construction projects in Edo State, assess the effects of payment delay on construction projects in Edo State, ascertain the measures for mitigating the effects of payment delay on construction projects in Edo State. The research findings showed
that administrative bottlenecks/bureaucracy ranked as the highest cause of payment delay. It also found that delayed payment had a detrimental effect to construction projects where delay in project completion was seen to be the highest effect. Contractors should adhere strictly to the conditions of contract so as to reduce the effect of payment delay on construction projects