Abuja: The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has called for increased use of bicycles by Nigerians to promote the free flow of traffic and create an urban Nigeria with minimal fume pollution. The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, made this appeal in Abuja during the ‘Ride a Bicycle’ event commemorating the 2026 United Nations World Bicycle Day.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mohammed, represented by Deputy Corps Marshal Clement Oladele, emphasized that bicycles are more than just a means of transportation. He described them as tools for healthier living, environmental sustainability, and safer communities. The 2026 theme, ‘Boosting Urban Life with the Bicycle,’ underscores cycling’s critical role in addressing traffic congestion, pollution, road crashes, and sedentary lifestyles in rapidly growing cities.
He stated that cycling remains affordable, sustainable, and beneficial to both individuals and society at large. He noted the FRSC’s ongoing efforts to promote cycling through public enlightenment campaigns focused on cyclist visibility and safety. These campaigns include organizing safe cycling rallies, advocating for dedicated bicycle lanes and signage, and partnering with schools and communities.
He assured that the corps will promote the inclusion of non-motorised transport safety in the National Road Safety Strategy II. Mohammed highlighted that each bicycle trip contributes to reducing traffic congestion and harmful emissions while improving physical health and providing affordable mobility for students, traders, artisans, and low-income earners. Promoting cycling, he argued, is not only a transportation solution but also an investment in public health and environmental protection.
Mohammed acknowledged that safe cycling requires safe infrastructure and responsible behavior from all road users. As such, the FRSC is intensifying its advocacy for protected bicycle lanes. The corps aims to promote a road-sharing culture among motorists and cyclists while collaborating with relevant stakeholders to implement the National Cycling Policy.
He urged state and local governments, town planners, engineers, development partners, and all Nigerians to support the development of cycling-friendly communities across the country. He also encouraged cyclists to ride responsibly, obey traffic regulations, and serve as ambassadors of safer and greener transportation.
Justice Monica Dogban-Mensem, the event’s guest of honor and founder of the Kwapda’as Road Safety Demand foundation, echoed these sentiments. Represented by Justice Eberechi Wike, she described the bicycle as a powerful tool for health sustainability and social inclusion. She pointed out that bicycles offer a simple solution to traffic congestion and air pollution challenges, sedentary lifestyles, and the high costs of motorized transport.
The bicycle, she noted, is affordable for everyday citizens, produces zero emissions, keeps riders physically active, and occupies less road space than cars. When speaking of boosting urban life with bicycles, she referred to healthier citizens through regular cycling, reduced risks of heart diseases, diabetes, and stress, and cleaner air. The bicycle also provides mobility for those unable to afford cars or motorcycles.
She urged cyclists to ride with discipline, visibility, pride, and to wear helmets as they are ambassadors of cycling and road safety. Chief Massari, President of the Cycling Federation, encouraged Nigerians to embrace cycling not just as a sport, but as a lifestyle promoting wellness, reducing pollution, and strengthening community bonds. Represented by Joel Akinluwa, the Secretary General of the federation, Massari expressed optimism that riding bicycles could remind Nigerians of progress achievable through balance, resilience, and collective efforts.
‘Let us work together towards a greener, healthier, and more connected Nigeria,’ he concluded.