By Kennedy Sheyin
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), has called for increased use of bicycles by Nigerians with a view to promoting free flow of traffic and an urban Nigeria with minimal fume pollution.
The Corps Marshal of the corps, Shehu Mohammed made the call on Wednesday in Abuja, at the “Ride a Bicycle” event to commemorate the 2026 United Nations (UN) World Bicycle day.
Mohammed, represented by the Deputy Corps Marshal, Policy, Research and Statistics, Clement Oladele said the bicycle day reminded the world that bicycles were more than just a means of transportation.
“It is a tool for healthier living, environmental sustainability and safer communities”, he said.
He noted that the 2026 theme, “Boosting Urban Life with the Bicycle”, highlighted the important role cycling played in addressing traffic congestion, pollution, road crashes and sedentary lifestyles in rapidly growing cities.
“Cycling remains affordable, sustainable, and beneficial to both individuals and society at large,” he said.
He added that, the FRSC being the lead agency for road safety administration have continued to promote cycling through sustained public enlightenment campaigns on cyclist visibility and safety.
He also said that the campaigns focused on the organisation of safe cycling rallies, advocacy for dedicated bicycle lanes and signage, partnerships with schools and communities.
“The corps will also promote the inclusion of non-motorised transport safety in the National Road Safety Strategy II”, he assured.
Mohammed noted that every trip made by bicycle contributed to the reduction of traffic congestion and harmful emissions, while also improving physical health and providing affordable mobility for students, traders, artisans and low-income earners.
He added that promoting cycling was therefore not only a transportation solution, but also an investment in public health and environmental protection.
The corps marshal acknowledged that safe cycling required safe infrastructure and responsible behaviour from all road users, therefore, the FRSC was intensifying advocacy for protected bicycle lanes.
He said the corps would seek to promote a road-sharing culture among motorists and cyclists, while also collaborating with relevant stakeholders towards the implementation of the National Cycling Policy.
He tasked state governments, local governments, town planners, engineers, development partners, and all Nigerians to support the development of cycling-friendly communities across the country.
He also charged cyclists to continue to ride responsibly, obey traffic regulations, and serve as ambassadors of safer and greener transportation.
Similarly, the guest of honour at the event, Justice Monica Dogban-Mensem, who is also the founder of the Kwapda’as Road Safety Demand (KRSD) foundation, described bicycle as a powerful tool for health sustainability and social inclusion.
Dongban-Mensem, represented by Justice Eberechi Wike, noted the traffic congestion and air pollution challenges faced in urban cities as well as sedentary lifestyles and the high cost of motorised transport.
According to her, the bicycle offered a decisively simple solution.
“It is affordable for the everyday citizen, it produces zero emissions, it keeps the rider physically active and it takes up far less space on our roads than cars.
“When we say boosting urban life with the bicycle, we speak of healthier citizens through regular cycling that reduces the risk of heart diseases, diabetes and stress, to cleaner air.
“The bicycle provides mobility for those who cannot afford cars or motorcycles.”
She also tasked cyclists to ride with discipline, visibility, pride, and wear their helmets as they were ambassadors of cycling and road safety.
The President of the Cycling Federation, Chief Massari urged Nigerians to embrace cycling not only as a sport but as a lifestyle that promoted wellness, reduced pollution and strengthened community bonds.
Massari, represented by Joel Akinluwa, the Secretary General of the federation, expressed optimism that the simple act of riding a bicycle would remind Nigerians that progress could be achieved through balance, resilience and collective efforts.
“Together, let us spread out towards a greener, healthier and more connected Nigeria”, he said.(NAN)
Edited by Deborah Coker
