Professional Evaluation of Procurement Methods for Infrastructure Projects in Kano State

Procurement method selection significantly influences project delivery outcomes for infrastructure projects, and the appropriateness of procurement systems used by the Kano State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure deserves professional evaluation. This study evaluates the procurement methods employed for infrastructure projects in Kano State, North West Nigeria, and assesses their influence on project performance outcomes. A professional document analysis methodology was adopted, reviewing contract documents, performance reports, and procurement records for 25 infrastructure projects (roads, bridges, and water supply) completed or in progress between 2018 and 2023. Structured interviews with 15 procurement officers, project managers, and contractors provided qualitative assessments. Project performance was evaluated using cost, schedule, and quality performance indicators. Results indicate that traditional design-bid-build procurement is used for 80 percent of projects, while design-and-build accounts for 12 percent. Traditional procurement projects show cost overruns averaging 34 percent and schedule overruns averaging 52 percent. Design-and-build projects show better cost performance (mean overrun 18 percent) but variable quality outcomes. Competitive tender processes are compromised in 44 percent of cases by emergency procurement procedures that reduce competition. The study recommends that Kano State adopt the design-and-build model for routine road and drainage projects and strengthen competitive tender compliance through independent procurement review panels as part of a revised State Public Procurement Policy.

Keywords: procurement methods, infrastructure projects, Kano State, project performance, public procurement