Government Policies on Architectural Designs and Procurement Procedures in Building Projects: Evidence from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, Nigeria

Government policies on architectural design and procurement play a pivotal role in determining the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of public building projects. In Nigeria, particularly within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, these policies are intended to safeguard functional adequacy, fiscal accountability, and regulatory compliance. This paper adopts a theoretical and conceptual review approach, critically analysing Nigerian and international literature to explore the interaction between policy frameworks, institutional structures, and professional practices. Drawing on case illustrations from notable FCT projects such as the Abuja National Mosque expansion and FCT Secretariat refurbishment, the study demonstrates persistent gaps between policy intent and practical implementation. Conceptual insights highlight that institutional fragmentation, enforcement weaknesses, and limited professional capacity often undermine policy effectiveness. The review emphasises that aligning statutory frameworks, institutional capability, and professional compliance is essential for improving public construction outcomes. This paper contributes a nuanced understanding of the theoretical underpinnings and conceptual relationships governing architectural design and procurement in the Nigerian context, providing a foundation for future empirical research and policy reform.