The pervasive influence of religion and societal instability in Nigeria has given rise to various social and economic challenges that jeopardize moral standards and threaten the integrity of traditional Nigerian customs. Consequently, these widespread religious distortions in Nigerian society have impacted individuals, including those employed in the construction industry, rendering them vulnerable to the deteriorating conditions in the country. This research delves into the examination of how contemporary religious and social ideologies shape the moral, communal, and cultural values of stakeholders within the construction sector, providing a robust foundation for comprehending the intricate issue of corruption within the construction business.

In Nigeria, the confluence of religious influence and social unrest has engendered a series of pressing issues that extend beyond the religious and social domains to affect the country’s economic and moral landscape. These multifaceted problems have pushed the traditional customs of the Nigerian people to the fringes, leading to a gradual erosion of deeply held values and norms. The repercussions of this societal upheaval extend even to seemingly unrelated sectors like the construction industry.

Dr Oluseye Olugboyega of the Obafemi Awolowo University[1] and his colleagues identified that within this context, it has become evident that those employed in the construction field, like many others in Nigerian society, are grappling with the adverse consequences of these religious and social distortions. As a result, they find themselves confronted with the harsh realities of the country’s deteriorating conditions. Economic challenges, ethical dilemmas, and issues related to cultural identity have all become intertwined with the broader societal issues that Nigeria faces.

This research study focuses on a critical aspect of this complex interplay: the impact of current religious and social beliefs on the moral, communal, and cultural values of individuals involved in the construction industry. By doing so, it sheds light on how these stakeholders, who play a crucial role in the nation’s infrastructure development, are influenced by the broader socio-religious landscape. Their values and ethical compass are put to the test, and this study seeks to provide insights into how they navigate this challenging terrain.

One of the primary implications of this research is its contribution to the understanding of the intricate problem of corruption within the construction sector. Corruption is a pervasive issue in many developing countries, and Nigeria is no exception. The study aims to offer a robust foundation for comprehending the complexities of corruption within the construction business, highlighting the ways in which religious and social dynamics contribute to this problem. By unraveling these connections, the research equips us with valuable knowledge for addressing corruption in the construction industry and, by extension, in Nigerian society as a whole.

[1] Olugboyega, O., Ejohwomu, O. A., & Omopariola, E. D. (2023). Examining the mediating roles of social malaise and religious manipulations in corruption manifestations: the case of the construction sector. Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management