Assessment of the Current Level of Skilled Manpower Supply in the Building Construction Sector of South-East Nigeria
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The building construction sector is a major driver of socio-economic development in Nigeria, yet the supply of skilled manpower remains a critical challenge, particularly in the South-East geopolitical zone. This study assessed the current level of skilled manpower supply in the building construction sector of South-East Nigeria, focusing on the availability, competency, and adequacy of artisans. The research adopted a descriptive survey design and involved 393 respondents, including trainees, vocational training centres, and contractors. Data were collected using questionnaires and interviews and analyzed using Relative Importance Index (RII) and ANOVA. Findings revealed that informal apprenticeship systems are the dominant pathway for developing skilled manpower (RII = 0.796), followed by artisan competency (RII = 0.775) and adequacy relative to demand (RII = 0.759). Workforce challenges include limited formal training, weak institutional support, migration, low youth participation, and an aging workforce. ANOVA results confirmed no significant differences in perceptions among artisans, contractors, and training centres. The study recommends strengthening vocational training, formalizing apprenticeship programs, enhancing government support, promoting youth participation, improving workforce retention, and implementing standardized certification and accreditation systems to sustain skilled manpower in the region.
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