TOPSIS analysis for sustainable redevelopment potential of abandoned infrastructure in Nigeria

Abstract

PurposeAbandonment poses a range of effects detrimental to the development of a country such as Nigeria. Restoring such infrastructure in a sustainable manner is a challenge identified in the literature. The aim of this study is to evaluate a novel approach – the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) to identify the sustainability criteria for the redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure in Nigeria. The literature evidences use of TOPSIS in various development contexts, but not in the context of redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure.Design/methodology/approachThis study explores the potential of TOPSIS in the sustainable redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure in Nigeria through a combination of a quantitative method of data collection – questionnaire – and a case study. The case study focuses on the abandoned Federal Government Secretariat in Lagos. One hundred and sixty-one (161) participants responded to the questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using TOPSIS analytical technique.FindingsRefurbishment is considered as the most sustainable alternative for the redevelopment of abandoned infrastructure. For criteria consideration, structural integrity and foundation categorized under the technological attributes ranked highest for refurbishment and conversion alternatives. Waste generation and prevention and profitability top the list for demolition and procurement respectively.Social implicationsThe social benefit of this study is to bring building considered to be an eyesore back into use.Originality/valueThe findings from the analysis orchestrates the importance of the built environment research concentrating on innovative frameworks for sustainable redevelopment of abandoned structures in the construction industry.

Guest editorial: Transforming the construction industry towards the next normal

“…The realisation of sustainable construction in the next normal is hinged on government policies, existing infrastructure and practices. Ogunnusi et al (2023) applied the multicriteria decision-making Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to select the best approach to making abandoned public buildings in Nigeria more sustainable. The analysis stressed the importance of refurbishing abandoned public buildings using a framework designed for this purpose.…”

“…Sustainable construction is critical for transforming the construction industry towards the next normal. The studies conducted by Ogunnusi et al (2023), Pim-Wusu et al (2023 and Ewuga and Adesi (2023) across three countries (Ghana, Nigeria and Ireland) and two continents (Africa and Europe) all point to the direction of looking into the past for future improvements of infrastructure, procurement practices and organisations. Reportedly, the implementation of sustainable construction in Ireland has been feasible by building a longterm relationship, trust, knowledge of the construction process, commitment, a common goal and mutual support.…”

“…Sustainable construction is critical for transforming the construction industry towards the next normal. The studies conducted by Ogunnusi et al . (2023), Pim-Wusu et al .…”