Assessment of Pedestrian Infrastructure and Walkability in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Walkability and pedestrian infrastructure quality are critical indicators of urban liveability and sustainable transport planning. This study assesses pedestrian infrastructure and walkability conditions in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State and a rapidly growing South South Nigerian city. The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining a physical audit of pedestrian facilities along 15 selected road segments with a survey of 185 pedestrians and commuters. The pedestrian audit tool assessed sidewalk presence and width, surface condition, shade provision, crossing facilities, and obstruction by vendors and parked vehicles. Survey data captured pedestrian satisfaction, safety perceptions, and walking behavior patterns. Secondary data on road design standards and pedestrian facility budgets were obtained from the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Works. GIS mapping was used to identify spatial clusters of poor pedestrian conditions relative to high foot-traffic areas such as markets, schools, and government offices. Findings are anticipated to reveal widespread absence of dedicated sidewalks, particularly on secondary roads, along with poor maintenance of existing walkways. The study also examines the relationship between walkability scores and levels of pedestrian injuries reported at Uyo's major accident sites. Recommendations include mandatory provision of sidewalks in new road construction, retrofit programs for priority corridors, reduction of vendor encroachment through designated trading bays, and incorporation of universal design standards in pedestrian infrastructure planning. Keywords: Walkability, Pedestrian infrastructure, Uyo, Urban transport, Road safety.