Traffic Congestion and Intelligent Transport System in a Fast-growing Nigeria City

Abstract

The dismal performance of the traditional traffic congestion measures and motorist attitudes on Nigeria roads have not only made traffic flow unpredictable and worsening but also worrisome and defiling every measures put-in-place by the Government. To solve these problems, the study assessed traffic congestion and Intelligent Transport System (ITS) in Ibadan, Nigeria. In achieving this, the study examined among others, factors aiding traffic congestion; effectiveness of the existing traffic congestion measures; and the performance and disposition to the use of ITS in the study area. Systematic random sampling was used to administer 386 copies of a questionnaire on commercial motorists, while data collected were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential (Pearson Chi-Square and Fisher’s Exact Tests) statistics. Findings revealed that faulty intersections (3.586) and excesses of traffic officers (3.558) were worsening factors aiding traffic congestion in Ibadan city. Meanwhile, electronic traffic signalization (3.558) and law enforcement and regulation (3.499) were rated the most effective existing traffic congestion measures. In other words, real-time traffic signal devices (3.609); automated travel advisory system (3.595) and road congestion pricing devices (3.581) were highly rated and favourably disposed to use ITS. However, the Chi-Square Tests shows that the use Intelligent Transport System is statistically influenced by users' level of education (Sig. value < 0.05). The study concludes that there is a total necessity and willingness to use ITS in the study area. Hence, the study recommends exigent and holistic approach in the provision and enforcement of ITS towards mitigating congestion and other suggestions for improved traffic flow in Nigerian cities including Ibadan.