This study evaluated the factors contributing to building maintenance challenges in secondary schools within Bida, Niger State. The research was necessitated by the visible state of structural and cosmetic disrepair of educational infrastructure in the region, which poses a threat to both functional integrity and the safety of occupants. To achieve the study objectives, a cross-sectional survey design was adopted, targeting principals, vice-principals, and technical staff across selected public and private secondary schools. A structured questionnaires was administered, with 80% response rate. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and the Mean Score index. The findings revealed that the most critical factors mitigating against effective maintenance are inadequate funding for spare parts and materials (Mean: 4.63), poor organisational structures (Mean: 4.63), and the influence of political factors leading to wrong technical decisions by non-experts (Mean: 4.53). Furthermore, the study established that 62.5% of respondents lacked formal maintenance orientation, leading to a predominantly reactive maintenance culture. The results concluded that current maintenance management practices in secondary schools in Bida are insufficient to protect the life cycle of school buildings. It was therefore recommended that the government and school management should establish dedicated maintenance intervention funds, professionalise the maintenance departments by involving built-environment experts, and implement mandatory preventive maintenance schedules to forestall rapid deterioration of facilities.

• Maintenance Schedules