Evaluating Risk Management Practices in the Lagos Ibadan Motorway Reconstruction Project

Abstract

Large-scale infrastructure projects in developing countries remain highly exposed to uncertainty, and inadequate risk management continues to contribute to delays, cost overruns and quality shortfalls. This study evaluates risk management practices on the Lagos–Ibadan Motorway reconstruction project in Nigeria, focusing on two objectives: (i) identifying and categorising the key risks associated with the project, and (ii) assessing the extent and effectiveness of the risk management practices implemented. A quantitative survey design was adopted, and structured questionnaires were administered to construction professionals with direct or indirect involvement in the project; 350 valid responses were analysed. Data were examined using descriptive statistics and the Mean Item Score (MIS) technique, while the reliability and validity of the risk-management constructs were established using Cronbach's alpha, composite reliability and average variance extracted (AVE). The findings show that financial risk (MIS = 3.49), logistics risk (MIS = 3.30), environmental risk (MIS = 3.20) and political risk (MIS = 3.16) were perceived as the most critical risk categories, while design and construction risks ranked lowest. Risk response (MIS = 3.24) and risk identification (MIS = 3.20) were rated the most effective risk management practices, whereas risk control (MIS = 3.09) was rated least effective; overall, the practices were judged moderately effective (mean MIS = 3.17). Reliability analysis confirmed that risk identification, response and control/monitoring were measured consistently (alpha and composite reliability above 0.80), but the results suggest that assessment activities are less effectively translated into operational outcomes. The study concludes that risk management on the project is present but unevenly implemented and recommends stronger institutionalisation of risk identification and assessment processes for large-scale infrastructure delivery in Nigeria.