Commuters' security and safety perception of the bus rapid transit system: An experience of an emerging mega city in sub-Saharan Africa

Safety and security within the transit environment and infrastructure are key metrics for evaluating the quality and efficiency of public transportation systems. However, limited research has examined commuters' perceptions of safety and security in African cities. This study focuses on Lagos, Nigeria, where the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system has experienced increasing concerns related to traffic accidents, unsafe boarding and alighting practices, and inadequate safety infrastructure. The study investigates commuters' perceptions of safety and security along two major BRT corridors, Ikorodu–Tafawa Balewa Square and Abule-Egba–Oshodi. Using 243 survey responses collected through convenience sampling based on respondents' willingness to participate, the findings reveal significant deficiencies in safety and security facilities at BRT bus stops and stations, as well as unsafe alighting practices by BRT operators. In addition, temporal factors, physical environmental conditions, and socioeconomic characteristics were found to significantly influence commuters' perceptions of safety and security. The study concludes with practical recommendations for improved system management and maintenance, emphasizing enhanced safety and security measures and increased operator professionalism through environmentally sustainable principles and strategies.