Analysis of Pedestrian Behaviour and Safety at Road Crossings in Kano City Centre

Pedestrian road crossing behaviour is a significant determinant of road safety outcomes in high-density urban areas, particularly where formal pedestrian infrastructure is inadequate. This study analyses pedestrian crossing behaviour and associated safety risks at selected road crossings in Kano City Centre, a densely populated commercial hub in North West Nigeria. A descriptive observational and survey design was employed, with data collected through structured observation at six major crossing points and questionnaires administered to 180 pedestrians. The study records crossing compliance rates, vehicle speed at crossing zones, pedestrian wait times, and the availability and functionality of pedestrian crossing aids. Findings show that pedestrian crossing compliance at designated zebra crossings is below 25 percent, largely because most crossings lack clear road markings, countdown signals, or physical islands. Vehicle speeds at crossing points average 52 kilometres per hour, well above the recommended 30 kilometres per hour in urban areas. Pedestrian fatalities at the studied crossings account for 18 recorded deaths over the preceding two years. The study identifies a combination of poor infrastructure, inadequate enforcement, and low road safety awareness as the primary contributing factors. Recommendations include the redesign of crossing points with raised pedestrian platforms, countdown pedestrian signals, and intensified road safety education targeting market traders and schoolchildren in the area. These findings support pedestrian-focused transport safety investment in major North West urban centres. Keywords: pedestrian safety, road crossing, Kano, traffic behaviour, urban road safety.