Abstract
Despite the growing emphasis on sustainable building materials, the uptake of Interlocking Stabilized Soil Blocks (ISSBs) in Nigerian construction remains minimal. This study investigates the psychological and institutional barriers that impede ISSB adoption, using a mixed-methods approach grounded in Innovation Diffusion Theory. A structured questionnaire was administered to 133 stakeholders, including architects, builders, and policymakers, to assess their perceptions, knowledge levels, and awareness of ISSB-related constraints. The study employed descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, and Spearman’s rho correlation to analyze the data. Findings reveal moderate awareness but significant knowledge gaps: 50.4% of respondents reported moderate knowledge of ISSBs, while only 18.8% had very good knowledge. Stakeholders positively perceived ISSBs for their aesthetic appeal (66.2%) and thermal insulation (62.4%), but expressed concerns about low-cost claims (40.6%), limited market availability (48.1%), and required training (41.6%). Key institutional barriers include a lack of awareness of ISSB benefits (55.3%), insufficient technical expertise (51.1%), and resistance to traditional shift (50.4%). A Spearman's rho test identified statistically significant but weak positive correlations between: Self-reported knowledge and perception of thermal insulation (ρ = .174, p = .045), and perceived lack of technical support and thermal insulation awareness (ρ = .191, p = .028). No significant relationship was found between knowledge and recognition of technical support challenges (ρ = .057, p = .518), suggesting a disconnect between perceived expertise and institutional awareness. The findings underscore the need for targeted educational campaigns, handson training, and government-led incentives. While ISSBs are valued for their performance and sustainability, adoption remains hindered by psychological resistance and systemic inefficiencies. Enhancing stakeholder knowledge and addressing technical support limitations could bridge the gap between awareness and implementation, promoting wider ISSB adoption in Nigeria's construction sector.