Perception of Mental Illness Among Commercial Motorcycle Operators in Zaria, Kaduna State

Commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, represent a large and socially marginalized occupational group with limited access to healthcare in Nigeria. This study explores perceptions of mental illness among commercial motorcycle operators in Zaria, Kaduna State, North West Nigeria. Using a qualitative design underpinned by a phenomenological approach, 30 participants will be recruited through purposive sampling for in-depth interviews. An interview guide covering understanding of mental illness, attributional beliefs, attitudes toward affected individuals, and willingness to support care-seeking will be used. Data will be analyzed using thematic analysis as described by Braun and Clarke. This population is largely unexplored in Nigerian psychiatric literature, yet their potential to function as informal community mental health advocates is considerable. Preliminary engagement with existing literature suggests that occupational stress, alcohol use, and road traffic trauma may predispose this group to psychiatric vulnerabilities. Findings will provide rich qualitative insights to guide community mental health education strategies in Zaria and other commercial transport hubs in North West Nigeria. Keywords: mental illness perception, Okada riders, Zaria, qualitative, community mental health