IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TECHNOLOGIES ON CONSTRUCTION EFFICIENCY AND SAFETY IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The Nigerian construction industry, despite its critical role in national development, continues to face challenges of inefficiency, project delays, cost overruns, and poor safety standards. This study investigates the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on construction efficiency and safety in Nigeria. A quantitative approach was employed, which involved a questionnaire survey of 387 construction professionals across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings reveal that the T-tests results are significant (p < .001, Cohen’s d = .72 – 1.08), demonstrating construction efficiency. Also, the results show that all safety indicators are significantly above the neutral point: overall safety impact (M = 3.84, t = 14.136, p < .001), accident rate reduction (M = 3.81, t = 13.267, p < .001), safety compliance (M = 3.67, t = 10.916, p < .001), and risk prevention (M = 3.92, t = 16.317, p < .001).  The study concludes that AI offers significant potential to modernize Nigeria’s construction industry, reduce inefficiencies, and improve workplace safety. It recommends strategic policy support, capacity building, and collaborative industry frameworks to accelerate adoption. This research contributes to bridging the knowledge gap on AI integration in developing economies and provides actionable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and future researchers.