FG encourages Nigerians to embrace bicycles for transportation

The Federal Ministry of Transportation is encouraging Nigerians to consider bicycles as a sustainable and healthier alternative for commuting in a bid to promote a cleaner environment and healthier lifestyle.

During a one-day stakeholders’ sensitization meeting in Abuja, the Director of Road Transport and Mass Transit Administration, Musa Ibrahim, emphasized the importance of cycling to reduce road crash incidences. The initiative aligns with the annual celebration of World Bicycle Day on June 3, as designated by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution.

The World Bicycle Day acknowledges the bicycle’s unique attributes as a simple, affordable, reliable, clean, and environmentally friendly means of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health. The theme for the United Nations 2023 World Bicycle Day is ‘Riding Together for a Sustainable Future.’

The promotion of cycling extends beyond addressing climate change by reducing carbon footprints. It also holds the potential to eradicate poverty, support sustainable development, enhance education (including physical education for children), promote health, prevent disease, and facilitate social inclusion.

One of the proponents for Non-Motorized Transportation (NMT), Emmanuel John, CEO of Ochenuell Mobility, highlighted the significance of cycling in Nigeria. He emphasized that developing an NMT travel culture through the adoption of Green Corridors can address challenges such as traffic congestion and reduce related economic losses.

The call for adopting National Stakeholders Forum on Bicycle Transportation indicates the Federal Government’s support for enhancing cycling infrastructure and encouraging more Nigerians to embrace bicycles for a more sustainable and efficient transport system.