Effect of Conflict Management on Productivity of Labour in the Nigerian Construction Industry

The Nigerian construction industry has been characterized by frequent conflicts that have resulted in low productivity levels. These conflicts often arise from different sources, such as disputes between contractors and subcontractors, workers, and management, among others. The impact of conflicts on the productivity of labor in the construction industry cannot be overlooked. Therefore, there is a need for effective conflict management strategies that can mitigate the effects of conflicts on productivity levels. This study examines the Effect of conflict management on the productivity of labour in the Nigerian construction industry with a view to reducing the impact of conflict on productivity among construction labourers. The sampling frame comprised professionals working in the built environments on the construction site. A well-structured questionnaire was designed and administered to the respondents. From the result of the analysis, it was indicated that Poor communication among workers and stakeholders, Interest of Different Stakeholders, Payment Disputes, Contractual Dispute and Dispute over Project Management Methodology with a mean score of 4.21, 3.77, 3.55, 3.52, and 3.32, respectively, are common causes of conflict in the Nigerian Construction Industry. Quality of work, Reduction in labour idle time, Increased number of completed tasks, Overall project success rate, and Reduced health and safety risk are the most significant effects of conflict management on the productivity of labour in the Nigerian construction Industry, with mean scores of 4.40, 4.21, 4.20, 4.11, and 4.05, respectively. It was concluded that relevant conflict management techniques effectively address conflict in the construction industry and have a dominant effect on the productivity of labour. Keywords: Conflict, Conflict Management, Construction Industry, Labour, Productivity.