Objective
The study identified innovative technologies and approaches in road transport that will contribute to reducing and/or mitigating COVID-19 impact on passenger transport in Nigeria.
Potential impact
Transport solutions to reduce or mitigate the COVID-19 impact disseminated to transport decision-makers in Nigeria. The study findings made available in open access formats for dissemination to Ghana and The Gambia.
COVID-19 Challenge
The overarching COVID-19 challenge for the transport sector is the safety of the workforce, drivers, workers and transport users, and at same time, keeping supply chains and mobility networks operational. Nigeria relies almost entirely on road transport, which accounts for over 90% of freight and passenger movements.
How are transport operators able to provide essential services despite the daunting challenges of poor infrastructure and underfunding when there is no pandemic? What are innovative solutions are employed, such as ICT for online booking and ticketing and changes in operational procedures. What lessons can be applied in the immediate post-COVID-19 period to stimulate robust socio-economic recovery?
Approach
The study was carried out in collaboration with the Traffic and Transportation Planning Research Group, a think-tank in the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus. Insights were gained into solutions employed to meet the many challenges in the transport sector in Nigeria. As well as a literature review, personal interviews and questionnaire surveys were conducted with transport companies, logistics and courier companies, bus drivers, and government agencies. The study used a mixed method of qualitative and quantitative research, and data were analysed and interpreted using descriptive statistics and Principal Component Analysis.
Data were analysed, interpreted and presented in recommendations for dissemination to stakeholders in seminars and workshops, social media, journal publications and public presentations.
Outcome
The findings were shared and discussed with stakeholders and research experts at a seminar. A capacity building workshop was conducted for stakeholders to share evidence-based knowledge that will enable policymakers and practitioners to formulate new policies and practices, and to replicate the study for their areas.