Appraisal of Cost-Benefit Analysis in Road Rehabilitation Projects in Plateau State

Cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is an essential planning tool for evaluating the economic justification of public infrastructure investments. This study appraises the application of cost-benefit analysis in road rehabilitation projects in Plateau State, focusing on projects executed by the State Ministry of Works and Transport between 2020 and 2024. A mixed-method design was adopted, combining structured questionnaires with document review of selected project appraisal reports. Sixty-eight respondents comprising quantity surveyors, civil engineers, and government planners participated. Data were analysed using mean scores and content analysis. Findings reveal that formal CBA is rarely conducted before road rehabilitation in Plateau State, with investment decisions primarily driven by political considerations rather than economic merit. Where CBA elements are applied, they are typically limited to capital cost estimation without systematic assessment of user benefits, accident cost savings, or vehicle operating cost reductions. The study further finds that the absence of standardised road appraisal guidelines and limited technical capacity in the ministry hinder rigorous evaluation practice. Recommendations include the adoption of the Federal Ministry of Works appraisal manual across all states, training of ministry personnel in economic evaluation techniques, and engagement of quantity surveyors with transport economics expertise in project planning teams. This research contributes to infrastructure investment appraisal literature for North Central Nigeria. Keywords: cost-benefit analysis, road rehabilitation, Plateau State, infrastructure appraisal, quantity surveying