Assessment of Conflict Resolution Mechanisms in Construction Projects in Taraba State, North East Nigeria

Construction project conflicts arise frequently from contractual disputes, labor grievances, and community disagreements, and the absence of effective resolution mechanisms prolongs projects and increases costs. This study assesses conflict resolution mechanisms in construction projects in Taraba State, North East Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey will recruit 160 contractors, project managers, site engineers, and community liaison officers from 15 active and recently completed construction projects in Jalingo, Wukari, and Zing. A structured questionnaire will assess types of conflicts encountered, resolution mechanisms used (negotiation, mediation, arbitration, litigation), effectiveness ratings, and project impact of unresolved disputes. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests will be applied. Taraba State's multi-ethnic composition creates elevated risks of community-contractor conflicts in construction projects, and this study will provide context-specific evidence for conflict management planning. Findings will be directed at the Taraba State Ministry of Works, construction firms, and the Nigeria Dispute Resolution Centre regarding appropriate dispute resolution protocols for project environments. Keywords: conflict resolution, construction projects, Taraba State, dispute management, community conflict