Improving Rural Transportation: An Analysis of the Strategies Towards Rural Access and Mobility Project in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluated the Rural Access and Mobility Project in Osun State with a view to identifying effective strategies for improving rural transportation infrastructure and enhancing community access. The study employed concurrent mixed-method design, while both probability and non-probability sampling procedures were used to select the respondents. A self-designed instrument was used to obtained information from the participants. Mean, standard deviation and correlation analysis were used for data analysis, while the responses from the KII were thematically analysed. The findings revealed that the top strategies for effective implementation of RAMP in Osun State, Nigeria, were establishing a dedicated project management unit, strengthening stakeholder coordination mechanisms, building capacity of local government institutions, enhancing budget allocation efficiency, and ensuring transparent and accountable funding, with mean scores ranging from 3.19 to 2.43, while leveraging technology for data-driven decision-making ranked lowest with a mean score of 1.76. The study found a positive and significant correlation (r = 0.694, p < 0.05) between road infrastructure sustainability and effective implementation strategies of RAMP in Osun State, Nigeria. Effective implementation of rural road projects in Osun State, Nigeria, requires dedicated project management units, effective coordination, and capacity building, respectively. Therefore, policymakers and implementers should prioritize effective engagement and participation in the planning and implementation of rural road projects.