Implementation in Construction Projects
FEATURED PAPER
By Uchenna Christopher Ndubuka, Benedict Amade, Gregory Chimere Enyinna, Abiola Adeniyi Adeyemo and Christian Chimenum Anyike
Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Nigeria
Abstract
This study evaluated the main challenges impeding industry 4.0 implementation in construction project delivery in Delta state, Nigeria. The study adopted a survey and exploratory research design methods of investigation, while a simple random sampling technique was deployed in selecting the sample size of 189 from a population of 358 using the Slovin’s formular for sample size determination from construction project professionals located in Delta state. The instrument for data collection and measurement consist of a well-structured questionnaire modeled in Likert scale used in eliciting information from the construction professionals. The questionnaires were validated for reliability using the Cronbach’s alpha test. The data collected were presented using descriptive statistical tools in the form of frequency distribution tables. Severity index was used in analyzing the main subject of discourse in the study with the aid of statistical tools (a Microsoft programmed software). The findings from the study indicate that the main challenges impeding industry 4.0 implementation in construction project delivery in Delta state include; the need to raise awareness of industry 4.0 with a SI of 18.4; professionals need to be aware with SI of 18.1, implementation costs are very high with SI of 17.5; training and skill development and lack of technical competence. The study recommendations included; that the professionals in Delta state construction industry should familiarize themselves with Industry 4.0 technologies to improve project cost, schedule, quality and ensure subsidized implementation costs.
Keywords: Challenges, construction projects, industry 4.0, Delta state.
1.Introduction
Industry 4.0 denotes an advanced phase of organizing and managing all the processes in the construction industry. It might also be referred to as ‘the fourth industrial revolution’. According to Ribeiro, Amaral, and Barros (2021), the terms “Industry 4.0,” “Smart factory,” “Intelligent factory,” and “Factory of the future” refer to a conceptualization of how factories will be designed in the future. From this perspective, the factories will possess enhanced intelligence, adaptability, dynamism, and agility. Industry 4.0 can be defined as a manufacturing facility that produces intelligent products using advanced machinery and operates within intelligent supply chains. Industry 4.0 will facilitate horizontal integration among adaptable units, which will be interconnected with partners in the value chain (Ndubuka, 2026).
The adoption of industry 4.0 technologies is seen as a catalyst that will propel the construction sector’s evolution and transform its practices and methods. The multitude of activities that take place in construction sites presents numerous intriguing research challenges. The construction sector is planning to achieve these goals by implementing industry 4.0 tools (Turner et al., 2021).
Therefore, the construction industry will benefit from improved production methods through the intelligent implementation of digitalization. The utilization of digital technology to process relevant data, prompt problem-solving, and foster a collaborative working environment in the design, construction, and operation of projects. This approach aims to optimise resource utilization and improve quality and safety. This will lead to reforms in the design, construction, and maintenance of physical structures, as well as in their subsequent utilization (Ndubuka, 2026).
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How to cite this paper: Ndubuka, U. C., Amade, B., Enyinna, G. C., Adeyemo, A. A., Anyike, C. C. (2026). An Investigation of the Challenges Impeding Industry 4.0 Implementation in Construction Projects, PM World Journal, Vol. XV, Issue III, March. Available online at https://pmworldjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/pmwj162-Mar2026-Amade-et-at-Investigation-of-Challenges-Impeding-Industry-4-in-construction.pdf
About the Authors
Uchenna Christopher Ndukuba, B.Tech
Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Nigeria
Uchenna Christopher Ndukuba, B. Tech is a dynamic and results-driven researcher with a B.Tech in Project Management Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri. He has currently concluded his M.Sc in the same field. He has extensive experience across the banking, construction, and education sectors, specializing in administration, project coordination, and technical implementation. Uchenna is skilled in project planning, risk analysis, budgeting, and stakeholder management, he effectively leads multidisciplinary teams and delivers innovative, goal-oriented solutions. Known for his strong leadership, strategic thinking, and analytical abilities, he consistently drives efficiency, accountability, and sustainable project outcomes with professionalism and integrity. He can be reached via email: ndubukauc@gmail.com, uchenna.ndubuka@nmu.edu.ng;
Benedict Amade, PhD
Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Nigeria
Dr. Benedict Amade is a Chartered Project Manager by Profession and a Probationer (Member) of Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS). He read and obtained a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) Degree in Project Management Technology from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria. He is a member of the Project Management Institute (PMI) U.S.A. Chairman, Research and Academic Matters, Association of Practicing Professional Project Managers of Nigeria (APPPMON) and a Fellow of Tertiary Education Trust Fund Alliance for Innovative Research (TETFAIR), and presently the Deputy Director, Centre for Research Innovation and Development (CRID) and a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Project Management Technology all at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria where he has been lecturing for the past 17 years. His areas of research interest include construction project management, computer-based project management, construction supply chain management and information technology on construction projects. He has authored over 75 scientific publications in international refereed journals indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, Scimago etc. He has presented quality papers at international conferences both home and abroad. He is actively involved in other consultancy works. He can be reached at https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3368-5432; benedictamade@yahoo.com; benedictamade@futo.edu.ng; benedictamade2@gmail.com.
Gregory Chimere Enyinna, PhD
Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Nigeria
Dr. Gregory Chimere Enyinna is a Reader at the Department of Project Management Technology, and Currently the Head of Department, Project Management Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri. He studied B.Sc. in Geography and Planning and an M.Sc. in Environmental Management from Abia State University. He studied his Ph.D in Germany. He is a Fellow of Institute of Management Consulting and the Institute of Policy Management Developers. He is a Resource Person at the World Bank Centre of Excellence in the Federal University of Technology, Owerri. He can be reached at pycongregco@gmail.com; gregory.enyinna@futo.edu.ng
Abiola Adeniyi Adeyemo, B.Tech
Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Nigeria
Abiola Adeniyi Adeyemo is a graduate student in the Department of Project Management Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria. He is currently practicing on his own at the moment. He is interested in writing and publishing articles in the areas Project Management, Manufacturing Technology. He can be reached on abiola4christ2010@gmail.com.
Christian Chimenum Anyike, M.Sc
Federal University of Technology
Owerri, Nigeria
Christian Chimenum Anyike is an experienced Quantity Surveyor and Project Manager with more than 15 years of hands-on involvement in construction cost management and infrastructure development. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation for delivering complex projects with professionalism, precision, and a deep understanding of value optimization. He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), reflecting his commitment to excellence and ethical standards in the profession. Christian is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Project Management Technology at the Federal University of Technology Owerri, where he previously earned his Master’s degree in the same discipline. He holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Quantity Surveying from Rivers State University. He can be reached at banyike@yahoo.com
