ASSESSMENT OF MONITORING AND EVALUATION PRACTICES FOR OPTIMIZING VALUE FOR MONEY IN MASS HOUSING PROJECT: A CASE STUDY OF ABUJA, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study assesses monitoring and evaluation (M & E) practices for enhancing value for money (VfM) in mass housing projects, using Abuja, Nigeria, as a case study. It addresses the gap in effective assessment of M & E practices to optimize VfM in mass housing projects, providing practical insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders. The goal is to improve project management techniques for better VfM. A quantitative approach was used, with data collected through questionnaires distributed to 125 construction professionals involved in mass housing projects in Abuja. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the data, with results presented in tables. The findings show that although a basic M & E framework exists, its implementation is only moderate. M & E practices are perceived as having limited impact on key VfM dimensions such as quality control, budget management, and public trust. This suggests that major issues like inconsistent application, weak stakeholder engagement, and governance challenges such as corruption threaten VfM achievement. The study concludes that strengthening technical capacity, digital integration, and funding for M & E must be supported by institutional reforms, anti-corruption measures, and mandatory compliance frameworks to maximise its effectiveness in delivering VfM.