Tricycle Operation and Socio-Economic Development within Uyo Metropolis

Abstract

This study examined the contribution of commercial tricycles to the socio-economic development in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, through revenue generation to the government, employment generation for the people and the movement of economic goods within the Uyo metropolis, Akwa Ibom State. Using the survey research technique, data for the study were drawn from primary and secondary sources through the cross-sectional survey of 400 respondents from 10,500 registered Keke riders in Uyo. The study employed the economic development framework as a theoretical framework to determine how transportation activities enhance socio-economic development. It was discovered among others, that tricycle operation has generated revenue from the payment of taxes and registration fees to the State Ministry of Transport; that it has generated a lot of direct (riders) and indirect (spare parts dealers and mechanic) employment opportunities to the citizens; and that tricycle operations have aided in the movement of people, goods and services, even to the rural areas. The study recommended that apart from the State Government ensuring that revenue generated from tricycle operations is channelled to the development needs of the state, it should also effectively monitor tricycle operations to avoid illegal registration and diversion of the funds by fraudulent revenue collection agents.