By Ibironke Ariyo
Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Malam Shehu Mohammed, has urged Nigerians to embrace cycling for healthy living and transportation.
Mohammed gave this advice while he was addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday on the occasion of the sixth United Nations World Bicycle Day.
He said the FRSC has taken a leadership role on this issue since 2010, adding that the body will continue to champion the cause while aligning objectives with policies and programs to achieve maximum impact.
He also said the body had revised the Nigerian Highway Code to reflect this new mindset of safe and sustainable transportation system being seen around the world.
He added that the promotion was also adequately reflected in the Second Nigerian Road Safety Strategy (2021-2039) approved by President Bola Tinubu.
This, he said, includes all the legal and regulatory documents that will be adjusted to ensure that cyclists can travel safely on the roads.
Therefore, according to him, motorists must be reminded that we will continue to enforce the law, including the protection of cyclists’ rights.
“Without mincing words, no means of transportation promotes the culture of serenity, order, friendship between neighbors and urban peace as much as the bicycle.”
“It is the only means of individual mobility suitable for all residents, regardless of age, sex, and social class.
“We highlight here the use of the bicycle as a panacea to promote health, prevent diseases, promote tolerance with a sense of community, mutual understanding and respect, and facilitate social integration,” he explained.
The FRSC chief urged the relevant authorities to create facilities and a conducive road environment that would help stakeholders and the entire motoring population to promote the use of bicycles.
He assured that the organization will continue to defend this path in solidarity with the objectives of the United Nations and the desire of all defenders of safe and sustainable transportation around the world.
Mohammed warned cyclists to remain vigilant on the roads and take responsibility for riding safely on the roads.
He also warned motorists to treat cyclists with the same caution and respect as any other vehicle on the road.
He also assured that the renewed hope of expanding road traffic administration and safety management in Nigeria will stand the test of time.
“Roads must be safe to open the cycle to cycling and encourage cyclists to participate.
“The Board is responding to this concern by committing to continue using the powerful and effective advocacy tool to achieve the desired change.”
“We will not relent in closing the gaps to ensure that cycling is a high priority and receives appropriate attention,” he added.
Likewise, Emmanuel John, president of the African Urban Cycling Organization, said that since the establishment of World Bicycle Day in 2018, the organization has been determined and committed to promoting the use of bicycles as a means to eradicate poverty.
John said the organization is also committed to promoting a sustainable environment and development, as well as strengthening education.
This includes the physical education of children and young people, health promotion, disease prevention, and the promotion of social inclusion and a culture of peace.
“We have worked with relevant stakeholders to conduct activities to commemorate the day in Nigeria, including workshops and cycling rallies, among others.
“We call on relevant stakeholders at all levels to come together to defend the course,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the sixth World Bicycle Day will be celebrated in 2024 with the theme “Bicycle as a tool for urban freedom”.
