Evaluation of Lean Construction Practices for Improving Construction Projects Delivery in Anambra State, Nigeria: A Review

Abstract

The construction industry in Anambra State, Nigeria, continues to face persistent challenges, including significant project delays, cost overruns, and quality deterioration, largely due to traditional construction methods, inadequate training, poor stakeholder collaboration, and adverse weather conditions. This review critically evaluates Lean construction practices as an innovative approach aimed at addressing these inefficiencies. It systematically examines Lean principles such as Value Stream Mapping (VSM), Last Planner System (LPS), Just-In-Time (JIT), and Continuous Improvement (Kaizen), assessing their potential benefits and implementation barriers within the Anambra State context. The analysis reveals that while Lean practices could significantly enhance cost management, reduce timelines, and improve quality, awareness and adoption remain limited due to inadequate training, cultural resistance, and lack of supportive regulatory frameworks. The paper recommends targeted capacitybuilding initiatives, active stakeholder engagement, governmental policy incentives, and pilot project demonstrations to facilitate effective Lean adoption.