Information activities of commercial taxi drivers in Saki, Nigeria

Abstract

Information behaviour of people differs according to the nature of their tasks and other activities they engage in. Therefore, the study of information behaviour is essential for different classes of individuals in the society. This study investigated the information behaviour of commercial taxi drivers in Saki, Nigeria. Survey design was adopted. Thirty-five taxi drivers were interviewed. The drivers had a variety of information needs, ranging from general information to specific information about their jobs. Interpersonal sources of information, which include discussion with friends, colleagues, and family members, were the preferred sources of information. They listened to radio and watched television, but at a very minimal level. The low educational status of the drivers was identified as a major cause of their reliance on interpersonal sources of information. The taxi drivers shared information among themselves during meetings, relaxation periods, and casual discussions. The use of the Internet to seek and share information was rare among the drivers.