ABSTRACT

Clay is an abundant material that is found in Nigeria and particularly in Benin City. The research paper examined the economic, energy, ecological, social and physical costs of clay bricks in the Nigerian building industry.  The research originates from the inadequate use of clay bricks in the Nigerian building industry despite clay abundance in the country. The research adopted quantitative (poll questionnaire) research strategies for data gathering. The findings revealed that clay bricks are very advantageous in the Nigerian building sector under the economic, energy, ecological, social considerations and physical characteristics. The paper recommends the sustained use of clay bricks in a building because of the economic, ecological, energy, physical and social benefits of using clay in the Nigerian building sector.