The Federal Ministry of Transportation is encouraging Nigerians to explore the use of bicycles as a viable alternative means of commuting.
During a one-day stakeholders’ sensitization meeting held in Abuja to mark World Bicycle Day, the Director of Road Transport and Mass Transit Administration, Musa Ibrahim, emphasized the importance of considering bicycles as a mode of transportation.
The Ministry asserts that bicycles not only promote a cleaner environment but also lead to a healthier lifestyle.
By incorporating cycling into the transportation system, Nigeria can potentially witness a decline in road accidents.
World Bicycle Day, celebrated on June 3 each year through a United Nations General Assembly resolution, acknowledges the bicycle’s unique attributes as a simple, affordable, reliable, and environmentally-friendly mode of transport.
The theme for the United Nations 2023 World Bicycle Day is ‘Riding Together for a Sustainable Future,’ highlighting the role of bicycles in promoting environmental stewardship and improved health.
Moreover, the benefits of adopting bicycles extend beyond climate change mitigation efforts. Emmanuel John, the Chief Executive Officer of Ochenuell Mobility, stressed that developing a non-motorized transportation culture, particularly through the creation of Green Corridors, can address challenges posed by traffic congestion and contribute to sustainable development.
A study conducted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Countries revealed that many African nations suffer an annual loss of three percent of their Gross Domestic Product due to traffic congestion.
Implementing a National Stakeholders Forum on Bicycle Transportation with the Federal Government’s support could substantially reduce the challenges associated with increased motorized transportation usage.
Various stakeholders participated in the sensitization meeting, including representatives from the Nigeria Institute of Transport Technology, Zaria; the Federal Road Safety Corps; Federal Road Maintenance Agency; National Union of Road Transport Workers; Greenlight Initiative, and the Federal Capital Territory Administration.
By embracing bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation, Nigeria can pave the way for a sustainable future, combatting environmental issues, eradicating poverty, fostering education, promoting health, and ensuring social inclusion.
Through collective efforts and support from the government and relevant organizations, the transition to a bicycle-friendly culture can alleviate the hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidies and ultimately lead to a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria.
