Beyond Linear Construction: Unlocking the Circular Economy in Maiduguri’s Housing Delivery

This study examines the drivers and challenges/barriers faced by built-environment professionals in applying circular economy (CE) principles within Maiduguri, Nigeria’s housing delivery system, a city recovering from prolonged conflict. Using a mixed-method approach, including a literature review, an interview and a questionnaire administered to construction professionals (n = 188), the research assesses awareness and practical implementation. Key drivers for CE adoption include regulatory incentives, increased research funding, potential cost savings, and rising environmental awareness. Major barriers, however, consist of limited technical expertise, weak policy enforcement, and financial constraints. The analysis also reveals significant gaps in on-site waste management and resource recovery practices. To address these issues, this study recommends targeted capacity-building programmes, stronger policy frameworks, and enhanced multi-stakeholder collaboration. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) should be supported to venture into engineering waste recycling and management. These measures aim to promote core CE practices, such as waste minimisation, reuse, recycling, and remanufacturing within the construction industry, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). The research concludes that integrating CE strategies can foster sustainable housing development in Maiduguri, supporting environmental protection, socio-economic growth, and increased resilience of the built environment in post-conflict contexts.