Several researchers have identified the importance of managing stakeholders as major criteria for determining project success. Project success has now extended beyond completing projects within budgets, schedule and set standards as traditionally viewed. Satisfying key stakeholders is another criteria used in evaluating project success, thus stakeholder management is an important aspect of project management. In Nigeria, studies conducted in the research area have not assessed the adoption of stakeholder management.
Therefore, this study appraises the concept in TETFUND construction projects. Interviews were conducted with project managers that have managed TETFUND construction projects in higher institutions. Comparative content analysis was used for analysing the interview responses. The results show the level of awareness and application of the concept within the firms; communication identified as the major tool for managing project stakeholders; and the major barriers encountered in managing stakeholders
Despite the awareness and acknowledgements of the importance of managing stakeholders, there is no proper adoption of the guidelines for stakeholder management as stated in literature. The study recommends that proper adoption of stakeholder analysis and engagement steps should be embraced by consulting project management firms in managing project stakeholders.
