GOVERNMENT METRO BUS COMMUTERS AND HOUSEHOLD EXPENDITURE: ASSESSING THE ECONOMIC BURDEN AND AFFORDABILITY OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN JOS, PLATEAU STATE
Mwolchet, Pokyes Shekara (Ph.d) , Jibrin Jaafaru Nok and Adah Noah Ataboh
Volume 5 Issue 2
Abstract
Public transportation plays a vital role in promoting economic participation, reducing household expenditure burdens, and improving access to essential services. This study assessed the economic burden and affordability of government metro bus transport in Jos Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected from 398 commuters using structured questionnaires. An Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) was conducted to uncover patterns, highlight anomalies, and summarize key variables. This was followed by descriptive statistical analysis and the application of a Generalized Linear Model (GLM) to examine how household transport expenditure relates to income levels and perceptions of fare affordability. Findings indicate that metro bus usage significantly reduces transport costs for most households, with over 50% reallocating savings to essentials such as food, healthcare, and education. Affordability perception was generally positive, though concerns about service reliability persist. The study recommends sustaining fare subsidies, improving service coverage, and incorporating gender- and income-sensitive policies to ensure equitable and sustainable public transport in Jos. Keywords: Household Expenditure, Metro Bus, Transport Affordability, Jos Metropolis
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