Theoretical Risk Identification within the Nigeria East- West Coastal Highway Project

This study examined principal risks affecting performance in the Nigeria’s east-west coastal highway project. The objective was to identify critical risks and their allocation preference. The study involved a two tier descriptive research processes. The first stage involved 10 high profile engineering design consultants and 6 projects managers, and the second stage was a survey of 66 construction/projects managers in Akwa Ibom and Rivers states, Nigeria. During the first stage, respondents were presented with a risk register containing 245 risk factors relating to the pre-construction stages to determine their applicability in the project. In the second phase, critical risks were ranked for degree of impact and likelihood of occurrence. Risk matrix was used to map risk impact and probability. Among the high impact/probability risk factors are government lack of political will; change in government, and corruption. 66% of the risks are allocated to contractor while the client bears only 34%. To ensure smooth delivery of the project, the study advocates the allocation of all policy; economic, financial, social, environmental, and technological risks to the client based on their shifting nature and existing contractual practice. The study provides an in-depth risk analysis and a comprehensive risk register for managing risks apparent in the projec