By Abdullahi Lukman
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has urged Nigerians to embrace bicycle riding as a practical means of reducing traffic congestion, lowering air pollution, and promoting healthier lifestyles in urban areas.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, made the appeal on Wednesday in Abuja during a “Ride a Bicycle” event held to mark the 2026 United Nations World Bicycle Day.
Represented by the Deputy Corps Marshal in charge of Policy, Research and Statistics, Clement Oladele, Mohammed said cycling offers significant benefits beyond transportation, including improved public health, environmental sustainability, and safer communities.
He noted that the 2026 World Bicycle Day theme, “Boosting Urban Life with the Bicycle,” underscores the role of cycling in addressing major urban challenges such as traffic congestion, pollution, road crashes, and sedentary lifestyles.
According to him, cycling remains an affordable and sustainable mode of transportation that benefits individuals and society.
He added that the FRSC has continued to promote cycling through public awareness campaigns focused on cyclist safety and visibility, safe cycling rallies, advocacy for dedicated bicycle lanes, and partnerships with schools and local communities.
Mohammed also disclosed that the corps would support the inclusion of non-motorised transport safety measures in the National Road Safety Strategy II (NRSS II) and continue advocating for protected bicycle lanes and a road-sharing culture between motorists and cyclists.
He stressed that every bicycle trip contributes to reducing traffic congestion and harmful emissions while improving physical fitness and providing affordable mobility for students, traders, artisans, and low-income earners.
The FRSC boss called on state and local governments, town planners, engineers, development partners, and other stakeholders to support the creation of cycling-friendly communities across the country.
He also urged cyclists to obey traffic regulations and serve as ambassadors of safe and environmentally friendly transportation.
Speaking at the event, the guest of honour and founder of the Kwapda’as Road Safety Demand (KRSD) Foundation, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, described the bicycle as a powerful tool for health, sustainability, and social inclusion.
Represented by Justice Eberechi Wike, she said cycling provides a simple and effective solution to challenges such as traffic congestion, air pollution, sedentary lifestyles, and the rising cost of transportation.
She noted that bicycles are affordable, produce no emissions, require less road space than vehicles, and help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stress.
She also encouraged cyclists to ride responsibly, remain visible on the roads, and wear helmets at all times.
Also speaking, President of the Cycling Federation of
Nigeria, Chief Giandomenico Massari, represented by the federation’s Secretary-General, Joel Akinluwa, called on Nigerians to adopt cycling not only as a sport but as a lifestyle that promotes wellness, environmental protection, and stronger communities.
He expressed optimism that greater acceptance of cycling would contribute to building a greener, healthier, and more connected Nigeria.
