UTILIZING GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) TO MAP OUT SUSTAINABLE NON-MOTORIZED TRANSPORTATION (NMT) ROUTES IN EKITI STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS.

Non-motorized transport (NMT), such as walking and cycling, plays a significant role in promoting sustainable mobility within university campuses. However, many Nigerian university campuses, including Ekiti State University (EKSU), lack properly planned and mapped NMT routes, leading to safety concerns, congestion, and inefficient movement patterns. This study examines the utilization of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to map and design a sustainable NMT network within the EKSU campus. The study employed spatial data collection techniques, including satellite imagery, drone-based data, and ground surveys, to generate geospatial datasets of existing road networks, pedestrian pathways, land use, and activity nodes within the campus. GIS tools were used to analyze spatial distribution, connectivity, accessibility, and route suitability for non-motorized transport. The analysis focused on identifying high pedestrian traffic zones, road density, settlement patterns, and priority corridors for NMT development. Findings from the study reveal that GIS-based analysis is effective in identifying optimal NMT routes that enhance safety, reduce travel distance, and improve accessibility between key campus facilities such as lecture halls, hostels, libraries, and administrative buildings. The proposed NMT network demonstrates improved route connectivity and supports sustainable transportation planning within the campus environment. The study concludes that integrating GIS technology into campus transportation planning provides a reliable and data-driven approach for developing sustainable NMT infrastructure. It recommends that university management and urban planners adopt GIS-based planning frameworks to improve non-motorized mobility, safety, and environmental sustainability in Nigerian university campuses.