Exploring the use of active mobility in selected rural areas of Nigeria

Recently, an increasing number of road users are turning to active transportation (AT) modes such as walking and cycling, viewing them as not the only means of mobility, but also opportunities for enhancing physical activity and improving health. However, while AT holds numerous benefits, its adoption and efficacy are influenced by complex environmental and social factors, particularly in rural areas. To investigate these dynamics, this study employed a robust research design, collecting primary data through a multi-stage sampling method. Specifically, 50% of the wards in the rural areas of Ondo State, Nigeria were randomly selected, and a total of 496 structured questionnaires were administered using a systematic sampling approach. Findings from our study revealed that majority of respondents in the rural areas were aged between 70 years and above, and mostly relied on the use of active mobility for trip making. Factors influencing the use of active travel showed distance as the most influential factor. This has a relative index of 0.993 and it is closely followed by travel time with a relative index of 0.984. this study proposed that residents in the rural areas should be sensitized on the benefits associated with active mobility, especially in relation to their health as majority are not aware of its health benefits.