The GreenLight Initiative has called on governments at various levels to provide safety infrastructure that supports the development of Non-Motorised transportation in Nigeria.
The call was made in commemoration of this year’s Annual World Bicycle Day, designated by the United Nations to be observed every June 3, in recognition of the bicycle as a versatile, and efficient means of transportation, with numerous benefits to individuals and communities worldwide.
The theme for this year’s World Bicycle Day according to Mr. Patrick Obi, Executive Director, GreenLight Initiative, is ‘Riding Together for a sustainable future’; hinged on the fact that cycling a non-motorized mode of transport offers numerous physical and emotional benefits.
“However, there are no sufficient safety infrastructures that support non-motorized transport systems in Nigeria. Infact, available evidence suggests that Nigeria does not have a notable national policy on Non-motorized transport system even though there has been significant advocacy and work in terms of drafting for non-motorized transport policy. It’s for these reasons that GreenLight Initiative called on the Nigerian government to prioritize non-motorized transport by implementing a framework as well as developing safety infrastructures that supports non-motorized transport systems in Nigeria.” He added.
He revealed that with the escalating concerns regarding fuel subsidy removal, climate change, pollution, and public health, GreenLight Initiative underscores the significant role bicycle’s play in mitigating these issues, “Cycling offers multiple advantages, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, combating air pollution, easing traffic congestion, and improving physical and mental well-being,” he said.
This year’s commemoration of World Bicycle Day in Nigeria coincides with the nation’s challenges posed by the removal of fuel subsidy, Obi stressed.
Asserting that at this time GreenLight Initiative also encourages Nigerians to embrace cycling as an alternative mode of transportation as this will mitigate the impact of rising fuel costs and promote a healthier, more environmentally friendly way of commuting.
“Nigeria, with its vast population and diverse geography, has immense potential to embrace cycling as a practical solution to fuel subsidy removal. The benefits of increased cycling participation go beyond reducing reliance on fossil fuels. It will foster a sense of community, enhance road safety, and inspire a culture of active living among Nigerians. He affirmed.
On this World Bicycle Day, Obi said, the GreenLight Initiative is also calling upon the citizens of Nigeria to recognize the immense potential that cycling holds in building a resilient and sustainable nation, advising that by choosing the bicycle as a primary means of commuting, Nigerians can actively contribute to reducing their carbon footprint, improving air quality, and enhancing their personal well-being.
“As we embark on this transformative journey, let us celebrate the spirit of World Bicycle Day and embrace cycling as a symbol of progress, unity, and a brighter future for Nigeria and its citizens.” Obi reitrated.
Registered as GreenLight Development Centre, GreenLight Initiative is a nongovernmental organization that promotes road safety, good health, and safe and sustainable mobility in Africa.
