Evolutionary Trends and Emergence of Commercial Motorcycling Operations in Ibadan Metropolis

Abstract:

The emergence of the commercial motorcycling has been considered a good experience as it has proved to be a source of support for economic survival for thousands of people in Ibadan metropolis. There is dearth of studies on the evolutionary trends and organizations of commercial motorcycling in Ibadan metropolis. Therefore, this study investigated evolutionary trends of commercial motorcycling operation in Ibadan metropolis, Oyo State. A case study design was adopted using qualitative method of data collection. A purposive sampling of 24 motorcycle units matched into 12 focus group discussions with the branch heads and union members of the motorcycle unions and the commuters across the city yielded the data. Primary and secondary data were collected using qualitative techniques. Data collected were content analysed based on the objectives. It was found that, the evolution of commercial motorcycling has been traced down to the increased human needs and urbanisation in the country after the Civil War and the failure of the public mass transit scheme in Nigeria between 1980 and 1990. Thus, organization of commercial motorcycling in Ibadan and Nigeria is under the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORAN) and the All Nigerian Auto Bike Commercial Owners and Workers Association (ANACOWA) that are the existing active associations coordinating and protecting the interest of mercantile riders in Nigeria. As recommended, the governments at various levels (federal, state, and local) need to create employment opportunities as this will go a long way in reducing unemployment in Nigeria, particularly in Ibadan.