World bicycle day: Attitudinal change needed to encourage cycling in 3rd world countries- FRSC

By Sani Idris

The kaduna Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Zubairu Mato, said Nigerians, amongst other third world countries, needed attitudinal change to encourage cycling for better health.

Mato said this to newsmen  on Saturday in Kaduna while cycling within the state’s metropolis in commemoration of the World Bicycle Day Celebration.

He noted that in third world countries, cyclists were considered poor, as in the case in Nigeria.

“Attitudinal change has to be encouraged in third world countries so that people who are cycling are not considered as poor.

“In developed nations, people have embraced cycling, especially for short distances,” he said.

He also noted that the 72nd session of the United Nations General Assembly
held in April 2018 acknowledged the
uniqueness, longevity and versatility of bicycle.

Mato added that bicycle, which had been in use for two centuries, was simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit and sustainable means of transformation, fostering environmental stewardship
and health.

He explained that a lot of health challenges could be avoided if, once in a while, people took time to
cycle.

“Bicycie has zero per cent emission, hence is very environmentally friendly.

“Bicycle is a cheaper means of transportation, healthier mode of transport, causes minimal damage on roads; has free parking and reduces road congestion,” Mato said.

The sector commander further stressed that as much as cycling should be encouraged, safety must be recognised.

He mentioned safety measures such as wearing of helmets when cycling, strict compliance with road traffic rules/ regulations and observing lane discipline while cycling.

He encouraged government at all levels to construct roads designed with bicycle lanes to enhance safety of cyclists.

The sector commander also urged the government to provide bicycle parking racks at ministries and parastatals in order for cyclists to have places for safe keep of their bicycles

(NAN)