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Getting Around Ibadan

Getting Around Ibadan

Ibadan Oyo State, Nigeria Travel Guide

Public Transportation Overview

Ibadan is without a metro or tram system. The main modes of public transport are buses, Keke Napep (tricycles), and Okada (motorcycles).

Buses, including the Oyo State Mass Transit system (e.g., Omituntun Bus Services) and private mini-buses (often called "danfos"), ply designated routes, getting the hang of and dropping off passengers along the way.

Modes of Transit

  • Buses: State-run (Omituntun Bus Services) and private mini-buses ('danfos').
  • Keke Napep (Tricycles): Three-wheeled motorized rickshaws for short to medium distances.
  • Okada (Motorcycles): Ubiquitous frequently regulated or banned due to safety.
  • Cash Payment: Most common for bus fares, Keke Napep, and Okada.

Route Knowledge

Formal route maps are not widely available; routes are known by locals and drivers.

Operating Hours

Public transport runs early morning (approx. 6 IN the morning) to late evening (9-10 PM).

Accessibility

Public transport generally lacks accessibility features for mobility challenges.

Navigation Advice

Local Insights
  • Ask the hotel employees or trustworthy locals for advice on routes and standard costs.
  • Utilize ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber for clear pricing and navigation.
  • Avoid peak commuting hours to reduce travel time due to congestion.
Payment Tips
  • For Keke Napep or shared taxis, confirm destination and agree on fare before boarding.
  • Cash payment is standard; have small denominations ready.
  • Certain recent state-run buses might accept pre-paid cards, but cash prevails.

Public Transport Summary

Buses

State & private mini-buses.

Keke Napep

Three-wheeled rickshaws.

Okada

Motorcycle taxis (caution advised).

Operating Hours

From sunrise to after sunset.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient and often safer options for circulating Ibadan.

Traditional Taxis

  • Identifiable by color scheme (e.g., yellow/green) or branding.
  • No meters; fares need negotiation before travel.
  • Hailing on street or at designated ranks (hotels, stations).
  • Cash payment is standard.

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Bolt (Taxify) and Uber are widely used in Ibadan.
  • Transparent pricing, SATELLITE tracking, safety features.
  • In-app card payment or cash payment directly to driver.
  • Verify driver and vehicle match app details.

Safety Measures

  • Ride-sharing apps: for the most part safer due to tracking, ratings, predefined routes.
  • Always verify driver/vehicle details on the app.
  • Hotel pre-arranged pick-ups provide convenience.
  • Street-hailed taxis carry higher risk; lack tracking/unverified drivers.
  • Avoid sharing taxis with strangers if uncomfortable.
  • Okada (motorcycles) carry high accident risk; not recommended for tourists.

Airport/Station Taxi Options

Ibadan Airport IBA

Taxis can be found; pre-arrange or take a ride-sharing.

Major Bus/Train Stations

Taxis accessible; consider pre-arrangement for safety.

Pre-booking Recommended

For ease and safety, pre-book pick-ups upon arrival at transportation centers.

Rental Options

Hiring a car offers flexibility but includes specific considerations in Ibadan.

Car Rental with Driver

  • Highly recommended for visitors unfamiliar with Nigerian driving conditions.
  • Local car hire companies operate; some international brands may have local partners.
  • Many hotels arrange car hire, often including a driver.
  • Driving needs a valid national driver'a driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Driving Conditions & Laws

  • Driving occurs on the right-hand side of the road; seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Road quality varies significantly; expect potholes, speed bumps, shared roads.
  • Reckless driving and a relaxed adherence to traffic laws.
  • Parking is available at most commercial centers and hotels.

Vehicle Rental Types

Motorcycle/Scooter

Formal rentals less common. Self-driving not recommended for tourists due to safety.

High accident risk.

Bicycle Rentals

Not widely available or established in Ibadan.

Limited dedicated infrastructure.

Specialty Options

Keke Napep (tricycles) serve as local specialty public transport.

No cable cars or funiculars.

Driving Safety Tip

Pre-Rental Clarification
  • Clarify daily rate, fuel policy, and any overtime charges before renting a car with a driver.
  • Be aware of assorted driving standards and unpredictable road users.
  • Avoid driving at night outside city centers due to poor lighting and security concerns.
General Driving Information
  • Major inter-state roads can feature potholes and sections under repair.
  • Heavy traffic is common, notably at busy times.
  • Fuel stations are available along major routes.

Walking & Cycling Cautions

  • Dedicated pedestrian-safe areas are limited (e.g., university campuses).
  • Pavements can be uneven, crowded, or non-existent in retail areas.
  • Cycling on main roads is generally unsafe because of dense traffic and lack of bike lanes.
  • Don't walk by yourself at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas for safety.
  • Self-guided walking needs high situational awareness due to traffic and pedestrian conditions.
  • Local tour operators may offer walking tours with a guide of historical areas.
  • Main expressways and busy commercial roads are not safe for pedestrians or cyclists.
  • Public transport and general infrastructure are not designed for accessibility.

Final Travel Tip

For short trips inside a neighborhood, walking during the day can be a good way to observe local life.

Always be aware of your surroundings and traffic conditions.

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