The Impact of Fuel Subsidy Removal on Students Pedestrian Traffic, Case of Bayero University, (buk), New Site, Kano

ABSTRACT Subsidies generally refers to government financial support aimed at reducing the cost of essential goods or services for the populace. Subsidies can take various forms, including price controls, tax reductions, grants, and others. Fuel subsidies, though initially introduced to make petroleum products affordable for the average Nigerian, particularly benefiting low-income earners, have had far-reaching economic and social consequences. The research aim at the impacts of fuel subsidy removal on urban pedestrian traffic (a case study of Bayero University, Kano New Site). The findings of the study will provide valuable information on the impacts of fuel subsidy removal on urban mobility, particularly pedestrian traffic around Bayero University, Kano New Site. It will help policymakers understand how transportation cost changes affect commuting behaviors and infrastructure. The review will be organized in conceptual framework. This study used a survey research design to gather data. Primary data collection method was used to collect through structured questionnaires administered to students, staff, and other pedestrians. Random sampling technique was employed to ensure representation across different groups. A total of 150 respondents were selected. The research conclude that the fuel subsidy removal has had a noticeable impact on students' transportation habits, with a significant increase in daily transportation costs urban mobility. As the cost of fuel rises, many people who previously relied on affordable transportation options now face higher costs, prompting changes in their commuting behaviors. The resulting economic pressure has led to increased reliance on public transportation, walking, or cycling, particularly among students and workers who frequent institutions such as Bayero University. Moreover, the removal of fuel subsidies has broader implications for urban infrastructure and planning. With rising transportation costs, there is growing pressure on cities to develop more pedestrian-friendly environments (Mahmoud, 2005). In this case, the urban pedestrian traffic around Bayero University, Kano New Site, may experience both positive and negative effects. On one hand, increased fuel prices may encourage walking and cycling as alternative modes of transport, potentially reducing congestion. On the other hand, higher transportation costs could lead to overcrowding on public transport systems and increased traffic on pedestrian pathways, potentially straining the available infrastructure and leading to safety concerns (Agwu & Emeti, 2014). Understanding these impacts is crucial for urban planners and policymakers in addressing the challenges associated with fuel subsidy removal, particularly in university settings where large numbers of students, staff, and visitors regularly move in and out of campuses. Examining the effects on pedestrian traffic can provide valuable insights into how cities can adapt to these changes and improve urban mobility in a postsubsidy environment (Abeh, 2012). 1.2 Statement of Research Problem On May 29, 2023, the newly elected president of Nigeria announced that national subsidies on petroleum derivatives would be lifted, with the funds to be redirected toward supporting public infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation