Impact of motivational practices on workforce performance in the Nigerian construction industry

The Nigerian construction industry is currently confronted with serious challenges relating to employee productivity, a situation that is largely linked to inadequate motivational strategies and poor worker engagement. Therefore, present study examined the impact of motivational practices on workers’ performance within the Nigerian construction industry, with the aim of identifying the most effective approaches for improving workforce productivity. To achieve the aim of the study, a quantitative research method was conducted in selected construction firms in Abuja, Nigeria in the year 2024. Structured questionnaire was adopted to obtain data from 135 construction professionals in the quantitative study. The data obtained was analysed using frequency counts, percentages, and Mean Item Scores (MIS). The outcomes of the quantitative study revealed that job enrichment is the most effective motivational technique having mean item score (MIS) of 4.66, followed closely by various pay types (MIS = 4.46) and the implementation of reward systems (MIS = 4.26). In terms of performance indicators, punctuality (MIS = 4.66), work quality (MIS = 4.46), and employee endurance (MIS = 4.40) were identified as key measures. The study concludes that motivational practices in Nigerian construction firms has positive impact on the performance of workers. The study recommends that construction firms should place greater emphasis on job enrichment, competitive compensation, and reward systems in order to boost productivity and achieve improved project outcomes.