Sustainable Transportation Solutions for Enhancing Periodic Market Patronage in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria

Abstract

Road, train, boat, plane, or pipeline travel moves people, goods, and services. A strong economy and government require reliable transportation. This study examines transport's role in socioeconomic development and market activity. Multistage sampling surveyed 400 Ado Ekiti residents from 25 towns and villages. The study assessed road conditions, travel distances, waiting times, transportation, and market patronage through questionnaires and physical surveys. According to the study, road conditions affected transport costs, rural market patronage, and periodic market commodity prices. The results show that road conditions strongly influence periodic market patronage. Road infrastructure improves market-goers' mobility and lowers transport costs, increasing market attendance. Poor roads decrease market patronage, raise transport costs and lower commodity prices. The study supports the idea that rural socio-economic development depends on transportation. In addition, the research emphasises the importance of road maintenance in rural transportation system efficiency. This research illuminates the role of road transport in rural market activities and emphasises the need to invest in rural road infrastructure to boost economic growth and reduce rural poverty. It also highlights the relationship between road conditions, market patronage, and periodic market commodity prices