Road Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Regional Development in North-Central Geo-Political Zone of Nigeria: Evidence from an Empirical Model

Abstract

Road infrastructure serves as a critical catalyst for regional development, influencing economic productivity, social inclusion, and accessibility to services. In Nigeria, the North-Central Geo-Political Zone continues to experience challenges associated with deteriorating road networks, affecting transportation efficiency, travel time, and regional economic outcomes. This study investigated the effects of road infrastructure on regional development in the North-Central Zone. A descriptive research design was adopted, employing a structured questionnaire administered to 322 respondents, including 95 commercial drivers, 75 logistics operators, 52 transport union members, and 100 commuters across Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, and Abuja FCT. Stratified, snowballing, and incidental sampling techniques were used to ensure comprehensive coverage of all road user categories. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis to determine the influence of Road Safety Perception (RSP), Road Quality Index (RQI), Road Connectivity (RC), Travel Time Efficiency (TTE), and Rural Access Index (RAI) on regional development. Findings revealed that Road Safety Perception (p = 0.000), Road Quality Index (p = 0.000), and Rural Access Index (p = 0.006) positively and significantly influence regional development, whereas Travel Time Efficiency (p = 0.001) exhibited a negative effect and Road Connectivity (p = 0.258) showed an insignificant impact. The study concludes that user-oriented improvements in road quality, safety, and rural accessibility are essential for stimulating sustainable regional development in the North-Central Zone of Nigeria. Recommendations include prioritizing targeted road rehabilitation, routine maintenance, and strategic infrastructure investment to enhance economic activities, social mobility, and regional competitiveness.