The Impact of the Technicians’ Skills Gap on the Nigerian Construction Industry: An Investigative Study

Abstract

The role and importance of the construction industry in the economic growth of Nigeria as an independent nation cannot be overemphasised. However, the industry has experienced some setbacks over the years within the sector in terms of its skilled workforce shortages and gaps. This study investigated the effect of the technicians’ skills gaps and their impact on the building construction industry development within the Nigerian context. The technicians’ skills have been considered critical in terms of the building industry performance particularly in improving the workforce efficiency and the industry’s productivity. However, there have been several exiting gaps within the current technician skills. These gaps within skills contributed to the industry poor performances in its competences and productivity, which in turn affected the nation’s economy. The paper critically assessed the current technicians’ skills gaps and most appropriate training requirements for better output of the industry. Hence, issues that negate the technicians’ skills upgrades in the industry were identified. A mixed research methodology of enquiry was employed, comprising of quantitative and qualitative methods. These enquiries consist of empirical literature that led to the design of a constructed questionnaire survey and interviews with selected participants. The findings indicated that there were great demands for skilled workforce within the Nigerian construction industry, most specifically in the building sector of the industry. Furthermore, behavioural issues exist between the employers and employees that negate proper construction practices within the context of the building industry. This study recommends the need for an effective technicians’ skills training and development framework for the industry in achieving effective output for its future growth. Keywords: Construction, Nigeria, Skill Gaps, Training DOI: 10.7176/JEP/13-11-12 Publication date: April 30 th 2022