The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has called for the integration of bicycle-friendly facilities in road construction projects across the country to enhance safety and promote sustainable means of transportation.
The Sector Commander in Cross River, Innocent Etuk, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar on Wednesday in commemoration of the 2026 World Bicycle Day (WBD).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that WBD is celebrated annually on June 3 to recognize
the role of bicycle in promoting sustainable transportation, health and social inclusion.
Established in 2018 by the United Nations, World Bicycle Day recognizes the uniqueness and versatility of the bicycle as a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally sustainable means of transport.
Etuk, therefore, said bicycles contribute to the attainment of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by supporting healthy living, affordable mobility and environmental sustainability.
He noted that bicycles provide accessible transportation for many people, especially in urban centres where short-distance travel is common.
He added that “regular cycling offers significant health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better blood circulation and reduced risks of some diseases.
“We need to design our roads to accommodate cyclists through dedicated lanes and other safety measures; the absence of bicycle lanes on many Nigerian roads expose cyclists to avoidable risks and crashes.”
He noted that following the UN recommendations, it is encouraged to integrate cycling facilities into road construction projects.
He urged motorists and other road users to respect cyclists, noting that all users have equal rights and responsibilities on public roads.
He emphasized that bicycle riders must abide by the same traffic regulations governing motorists, including obedience to traffic lights and road signs.
The FRSC commander said the corps was collaborating with Non-Governmental Organizations and cycling groups to promote awareness and safe cycling practices.
He encouraged Nigerians to embrace cycling for recreation, fitness and short-distance transportation, describing it as beneficial to both personal health and the environment.
“Cycling can help to reduce carbon emissions, greenhouse gases and other pollutants that contribute to environmental degradation,” he said. (NAN)
