Jimoh Rasheed Abiola analyses Walkway, Footbridge Impact on Pedestrians’ Safety Along Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway

Lagos’ Walking Dilemma: Are Pedestrian Bridges the Answer?
Pedestrian safety is a critical issue in Lagos State, Nigeria, where urbanization and traffic density combine to create precarious walking conditions for millions. Along the Oshodi-Abule Egba corridor—a major arterial route in Lagos—the risks faced by pedestrians underscore the urgency of effective infrastructure solutions. This article explores the impact of walkways and footbridges on pedestrian safety along this corridor, drawing on research conducted at School of Transport and Logistics, Lagos State University under the guidance of Dr. Olorunnimbe R.O. and supported by a team of transportation experts.

The Problem: Unsafe Passageways
The study highlights a troubling reality: despite the presence of 11 pedestrian bridges and various walkways along the Oshodi-Abule Egba road, many pedestrians still choose to cross busy highways, often risking their lives. Data from the study shows that 79% of respondents attribute pedestrian accidents to high traffic volume, while 64.9% believe that enforcement of laws could encourage better usage of available infrastructure. The findings are consistent with global studies indicating that human behavior, infrastructure design, and enforcement are critical factors in pedestrian safety (Mobolaji, 2022).
Pedestrians often cite the poor accessibility, excessive height, and congestion of footbridges as reasons for avoiding them. According to the study, 45.9% of respondents described footbridges as time-consuming, while 41.7% pointed to inadequate security as a deterrent. These perceptions are compounded by other challenges, including hawkers occupying bridge entry points and poor lighting conditions, which heighten the risk of criminal activities (Umar et al., 2019).

Behavioral Patterns and the Role of Education
Behavioral factors also play a pivotal role. As the research emphasizes, pedestrians’ choices are influenced by a combination of convenience, enforcement, and awareness. For instance, many respondents noted that the absence of visible law enforcement emboldens jaywalking. This aligns with findings from previous studies in similar urban environments, where the lack of penalties for noncompliance leads to widespread disregard for pedestrian infrastructure (Budzynski et al., 2019).
Educational campaigns are seen as essential in addressing these behavioral issues. While 31.8% of respondents in the study acknowledged the role of education in reducing accidents, significant gaps in awareness persist. “Pedestrians often view infrastructure as optional rather than necessary,” noted Dr. Ibrahim Forson, the program coordinator.

Global Best Practices and Local Realities
Urban centers worldwide have successfully reduced pedestrian fatalities through integrated approaches that combine education, enforcement, and infrastructure upgrades. For example, Singapore’s “Walk Safe” initiative uses technology, community engagement, and strict penalties to promote pedestrian safety. By contrast, Lagos faces unique challenges, including rapid population growth and limited resources for infrastructure maintenance.
The study draws parallels between Lagos and other developing cities where improper infrastructure placement—such as footbridges located too far from natural crossing points—reduces usability. These misalignments, coupled with socio-economic factors like the presence of informal markets near pedestrian zones, exacerbate the problem (Getachew, 2020).

Policy Recommendations: A Path Forward
The research team, led by Dr. Olorunnimbe, advocates for a comprehensive strategy to address pedestrian safety. Key recommendations include:
Improved Infrastructure Design: Ensure that pedestrian bridges and walkways are accessible, well-lit, and equipped with safety features such as ramps for disabled users.

Targeted Awareness Campaigns: Conduct public education programs highlighting the dangers of jaywalking and the benefits of using pedestrian infrastructure.

Enforcement of Traffic Laws: Strengthen law enforcement presence at high-risk crossings and impose penalties for noncompliance.

Community Engagement: Involve local stakeholders, including market associations and community leaders, in maintaining pedestrian infrastructure.

Acknowledgments and Future Directions
This study—a partial fulfillment for the award of a Master’s degree in Transport and Logistics, Lagos State University—owes its success to the contributions of School of Transport and Logistics, Lagos State University. Special thanks to Dr. Olorunnimbe R.O., the project supervisor, Dr. Ibrahim Forson, the program coordinator and other lecturers, including Prof. Charles Asenime, Prof. S.G. Odewunmi, Dr. J. Asaju and Dr. Taiwo Salam, for their guidance. I also extend heartfelt gratitude to late Professor Lai Oso, who encouraged and pivoted my step into M.Sc. degree programme and for career advancement (may his soul continue to rest in peace)
The findings underscore the need for ongoing research to optimize pedestrian infrastructure and adapt international best practices to local contexts. As Lagos aspires to become a truly walkable city, addressing these challenges is essential for the safety and mobility of its residents.

References
Budzynski, R., et al. (2019). “The Effect of Road Infrastructure on Pedestrian Safety.” Getachew, S. (2020). “Pedestrian Safety in Urban Areas: A Case Study from Addis Ababa.” Mobolaji, A. (2022). “Traffic Management and Pedestrian Behavior in Lagos.” Umar, K., et al. (2019). “Barriers to Pedestrian Bridge Usage in Nigeria.” Asaju,J. (2021) Constraints On The Use Of Pedestrian Bridges Along Lagos-Ikorodu Expressway. International Journal