Analysis of Gender Differences in Modal Choice among Residents of Coastal Communities of Yenagoa Metropolis in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

This study examined gender differences in modal choice among residents of coastal communities of Yenagoa metropolis in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The Four-Step model of transportation planning and modal choice provided the theoretical basis for this study. A survey research design involving a stratified sampling technique was adopted. The descriptives on transport modes, amount and time spent revealed that 10 (76.9%) males and 3 (23.1%) females preferred bicycle as means of transportation, 7 (58.3%) males and 5 (41.7%) females preferred motorcycle, while a significant proportion 90 (53.9%) males and 77 (46.1%) females preferred tricycle, 80 (63.0%) males and 47 (37.0%) females preferred cars/taxis, and 12 (46.2%) males and 14 (53.8%) females preferred mass transit bus. However, 14 (46.7%) males and 16 (53.3%) females in marshy terrain and coastal locations preferred canoes and boats. The result of the logistic regression model revealed that gender modal preference is more likely to be influenced by mode of transportation with a beta weight of 1.140, safety considerations 1.139, ownership of transport 1.135 and distance to place of work 1.073. Hence, this study recommends that a combination of these factors should be incorporated into transport planning to achieve effective transport planning and sustainable development in the Yenagoa metropolis.