According to the MICS report, only 10.4% of households in Nigeria have at least one member who owns or has access to a car, truck, or van. This is a relatively low percentage, but it is important to note that it varies widely between urban and rural areas. In urban areas, the percentage of households with vehicle ownership jumps to 16.6%, while in rural areas, it drops to just 4.9%.
This disparity is not surprising, as urban areas tend to have more infrastructure, better access to financial resources, and more job opportunities that can lead to higher incomes. All these factors contribute to the higher vehicle ownership rate in urban areas. In contrast, rural areas often lack these resources, which makes owning a vehicle a luxury that only a few can afford.
The data shows that the South East region has the highest vehicle ownership rate in the country, with almost one in five households owning a vehicle. This is not surprising, given that the region is one of the most developed and economically prosperous areas of Nigeria, with thriving commercial centers such as Aba, Onitsha, and Enugu. The South East region is also known for its enterprising spirit, and many individuals in the region have been able to build successful businesses and accumulate wealth, which may have contributed to the high vehicle ownership rate.
In contrast, the North East region has the lowest vehicle ownership rate in the country, with less than 5% of households owning a vehicle. This is not surprising, given that the region has been plagued by conflict and instability for many years, which has hindered economic development and reduced opportunities for wealth creation. Additionally, the region is known for its predominantly rural and agrarian economy, which may not require as much reliance on personal vehicles for transportation.
The South West and North Central regions have similar vehicle ownership rates, with just over one in ten households owning a vehicle. These regions are relatively more developed and economically prosperous than the North East and North West regions, but they may not have the same level of commercial activity and entrepreneurship as the South East region.
The data also shows that Anambra state has the highest vehicle ownership rate in the country, with almost three in ten households owning a vehicle. This is not surprising, given that the state is one of the most developed and economically prosperous areas of the country, with a thriving commercial centre in Onitsha. The state is also known for its enterprising spirit and many individuals in the state have been able to build successful businesses and accumulate wealth, which may have contributed to the high vehicle ownership rate.
Abuja Federal Capital Territory, which is the capital of Nigeria, has the second-highest vehicle ownership rate in the country, with more than one in four households owning a vehicle. The high vehicle ownership rate in Abuja may be attributed to its status as the political and administrative centre of the country, as well as its relatively high level of economic development.
In contrast, Bayelsa state has the lowest vehicle ownership rate in the country, with only 2.3% of households owning a vehicle. This is not surprising, given that the state is one of the least developed and economically prosperous areas of the country, with a predominantly rural and agrarian economy.
In conclusion, the Nigeria MICS report of 2021 provides valuable insights into vehicle ownership in Nigeria. It highlights the disparities in vehicle ownership between urban and rural areas, as well as the strong correlation between vehicle ownership and income levels. It also sheds light on the types of vehicles owned by Nigerian households and the cultural and social factors that influence vehicle ownership. Policymakers and researchers can use this information to better understand the needs and priorities of Nigerian households and to develop policies that can improve access to transportation for all.