AWKA/Nigeria: The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has called on Nigerians to embrace the use of bicycles as a safe, affordable and environmentally friendly means of transportation, saying increased adoption of cycling could improve public health, reduce transportation costs and help combat environmental pollution.
The call was made in Awka, Anambra State, during the commemoration of the 2026 World Bicycle Day and the quarterly visit of the Zonal Commanding Officer of RS5 Benin Zone, Assistant Corps Marshal Cyril Matthew, to the Anambra State Command.
Speaking at the event, Matthew said bicycles remain one of the most cost-effective means of transportation, requiring minimal maintenance while offering significant health benefits through regular physical activity.
He noted that many developed countries have successfully integrated cycling into their transportation systems as part of broader efforts to improve public health and reduce the effects of climate change caused by carbon emissions.
According to him, the low level of bicycle usage in Nigeria is largely due to inadequate public awareness and the absence of dedicated infrastructure for cyclists on most roads.
“Advanced countries have adopted bicycle transportation systems as a matter of public health wellbeing and control of greenhouse effects arising from carbon emissions.
“The use of bicycles in Nigeria has remained low because many people are not fully aware of their benefits, while road infrastructure in most places does not provide safe lanes for cyclists.
“However, the FRSC has continued to advocate the inclusion of bicycle-friendly infrastructure in road development plans, and government is gradually buying into the idea,” Matthew said.
He explained that the annual observance of World Bicycle Day was designed to highlight the economic, environmental and health advantages of cycling and encourage greater public participation.
The Assistant Corps Marshal urged Nigerians to consider bicycles as a practical alternative for short-distance travel, stressing that they not only reduce transportation expenses but also contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment.
The United Nations established World Bicycle Day in 2018 to promote the bicycle as a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and sustainable means of transportation. The theme for the 2026 celebration is “Cycling for a Greener Future.”
Earlier, the Anambra State Sector Commander of the FRSC, Mrs. Bridget Asekhauno, said the command had intensified public enlightenment campaigns across churches, mosques, markets and motor parks to strengthen road safety awareness among residents.
She disclosed that the command was also deepening collaboration with the media, transport unions, stakeholders and the Anambra State Government to improve road safety and protect all categories of road users.
Asekhauno, however, expressed concern over the continued use of old government number plates by some former public office holders and other unauthorized persons.
According to her, the command has already engaged the Secretary to the State Government on measures to retrieve such number plates from individuals no longer entitled to use them.
The event climaxed with an awareness bicycle ride involving FRSC personnel and cycling enthusiasts through major roads in Awka, aimed at promoting cycling as a healthy lifestyle choice and a sustainable mode of transportation.
The campaign, officials said, forms part of ongoing efforts to encourage environmentally responsible transportation options while fostering a culture of road safety and healthy living among Nigerians.
